Alumni Spotlight
Kristen Drobnis: A Lifelong Commitment to Northeastern and the Power of Giving Back
Kristen Drobnis is more than just a professor at Northeastern University’s College of Professional Studies (CPS); she is a devoted alum, an active donor, and a tireless advocate for student success. As a “Double Husky” with multiple degrees from Northeastern and a professional career spanning decades in finance, risk management, and data protection, Drobnis has woven the university into the fabric of her life. Her dedication to education, mentorship, and philanthropy has left a lasting impact on the Northeastern community.
From Humble Beginnings to Financial Success
Growing up in Norwood and Boston’s North End, Drobnis learned the value of hard work at an early age. With her mother working tirelessly as a nurse to support the family after her parents’ divorce, Kristen took on her first job at just 12 years old, babysitting to earn extra money. By 13, she was working at Dunkin’ Donuts, and throughout high school, she balanced multiple jobs while navigating an academic journey that did not come easily at first.
Initially enrolling at Johnson & Wales University with aspirations of opening a travel agency, Drobnis quickly realized that financial stability was a priority. She pivoted to banking and finance, eventually enrolling in Northeastern’s University College (now CPS) while working full-time at Sun Life Insurance. It was at Fidelity Investments, however, where she truly found her professional footing, spending nearly two decades in financial services and embracing mentorship as a critical tool for success.
Building a Legacy at Northeastern
Drobnis’s deep connection to Northeastern has been both personal and professional. She earned her Bachelor’s in Finance from University College in 1994, followed by a master’s certificate in Financing and Banking, a Master’s in Leadership, and additional certifications in computer crime, security, and project management. Her passion for problem-solving and risk management became the foundation of her career, currently serving as Vice President of Data Protection at SwissRe.
In 2008, while helping to build risk management frameworks at Fidelity, Drobnis applied to teach at Northeastern. Initially rejected due to a lack of teaching experience, she proposed a mentorship plan under Professor Richard Lincoln. By the second week of shadowing, Lincoln recognized her talent and let her take over the class. Since 2009, Drobnis has been an adjunct professor at CPS, shaping the Project Management and Data Analytics programs and inspiring students through real-world applications of risk management.
A Passion for Mentorship and Student Success
Mentorship has played a crucial role in Drobnis’s life, both as a recipient and a mentor herself. Her first mentor at Fidelity, Sharad Gupta, helped her navigate a male-dominated industry, later introducing her to female mentors at Fidelity. Another inspiring mentor is Carolyn Hodges of JPMorgan Chase, who became a long-term guide and advocate.
Recognizing the importance of mentorship in professional development, Drobnis actively connects her students to opportunities and resources. One former student, inspired by her class discussions, launched a business that helps micro-farmers bring their products to market. Encouraging her to apply for Northeastern’s Women Who Empower initiative, Drobnis supported her journey to graduate studies. These connections are a testament to her lifelong mission: to lift others up through education and support.
“Life will throw challenges your way, but everything happens for a reason. Learn to navigate change, and you’ll always find your path. Life will throw challenges your way, but everything happens for a reason. Learn to navigate change, and you’ll always find your path.” said Drobnis.
Philanthropy with a Purpose
Drobnis’s commitment to Northeastern extends far beyond the classroom. A firm believer in active philanthropy, she has long prioritized direct-impact giving. Inspired by her time at Fidelity, where corporate philanthropy was embedded in workplace culture, she initially contributed to larger institutions but soon shifted her focus to more tangible student support.
“I definitely feel it’s important. For me, it’s a no-brainer,” Drobnis says. “Where can I give that’s going to have more direct impact and get back to someone directly?”
This mindset led her to establish her own scholarships at Northeastern. Her donations specifically target students facing financial hardships, ensuring that those in need have the support to complete their education. Most notably, she founded a scholarship in honor of her mother, a veteran and dedicated nurse who battled cancer for 20 years before passing in 2023. This scholarship prioritizes veterans and career changers pursuing nursing—an opportunity for Drobnis to honor her mother’s legacy while directly impacting students in need.
Tara Esfahanian, Director of Development, charged with overseeing the scholarship committee, highlights Kristen’s efforts: “She is always mindful to highlight veterans, flagging them for us to ensure they receive the support they deserve.”
Balancing Passion, Work, and the Future
Despite her many commitments, Drobnis makes time for her passions, including gardening and leading the travel committee for the Cape Cod Hydrangea Society. She finds joy in organizing trips to renowned gardens and botanical sites, combining her love for nature with her drive for leadership.
As for the future, Drobnis acknowledges the challenges of balancing multiple roles. “I have to stay busy—it’s just in my makeup,” she admits. “People ask why I work two jobs. The reality is, I recognize my strengths and feed off them. I have a goal of retiring in eight years, but I also know I want to stay involved in volunteer activities.”
Words of Wisdom for the Next Generation
Drobnis’s journey—from a young girl working at Dunkin’ Donuts to a successful executive, educator, and philanthropist—embodies resilience, determination, and generosity. To students and professionals alike, she offers this advice:
“Find something that you are going to enjoy. I love risk management and I love teaching, and that passion helps me excel. Don’t be forced into something just for money—you can make money in any field. Have both short- and long-term goals, and set them with intention. Life will throw challenges your way, but everything happens for a reason. Learn to navigate change, and you’ll always find your path.”
Through her unwavering commitment to Northeastern, her impactful philanthropy, and her dedication to student success, Kristen Drobnis is not just a member of the Northeastern community—she is shaping its future.
