Debra (Debbie) Mallick Manenté is a powerhouse in career development, with over 20 years of experience guiding students and professionals toward success. As the Director of the Career Success Center at Western Connecticut State University (WCSU), she oversees the applied learning/co-op program and workforce development for lifelong learners, helping students and alumni connect their education to meaningful careers.

Debbie’s ability extends across workforce development, having worked with Capital Workforce Partners and a network of Chambers of Commerce including Danbury, Northwestern, Waterbury, New Haven, and Middletown. She was instrumental in implementing a Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) certification program, where she coached veterans, homeless individuals, and the long-term unemployed, helping them gain the skills to find and retain jobs.

With a background that includes human resources, management, real estate, information technology, and public relations, Debbie brings a diverse perspective to her career coaching. She is also a certified résumé writer who has crafted more than 4,000 résumés and cover letters, and she runs a variety of workshops to help students and alumni brand themselves and land their dream jobs. In addition, she actively networks with over 23,000 national and local employers, making sure the WCSU community has access to top opportunities.

Debbie’s dedication to workforce development is reflected in her memberships with the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), Connecticut Career Consortium (CCC), National Association of Résumé Writers (NARW), and the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM). She is also certified as a Career Launch® educator and has completed certification with the Experiential Educator Academy® from the Society for Experiential Education (SEE). A graduate of Danbury Leadership, Class of 2020, Debbie knows the power of strong community connections.

Academically, Debbie holds a B.A. in Communication from Central Connecticut State University and a M.Ed. from Cambridge College, with concentrations in school counseling and psychology. She is also a graduate of the Connecticut School of Broadcasting and spent 12 years working in media and broadcasting before transitioning to leadership roles in Career Services at New Horizon’s Computer Learning Center and Post University.

A passionate community advocate, Debbie has volunteered for over 100 causes and raised more than $40,000 for veterans and cancer research. She proudly held the titles of Mrs. Connecticut United States 2016 and Mrs. Connecticut International 2019, showcasing her dedication and drive. With her love for the stage, she has performed stand-up comedy in New York City and is a former singer with the Connecticut U.S.O., demonstrating her ability to think on her feet and bring joy to others.

As the Vice Regent (Vice President) of her Daughters of the American Revolution (D.A.R.) chapter, Debbie continues to honor her heritage and lead with purpose through initiatives that celebrate history, education, and patriotism. She also serves on the Board of Directors for The Patriots’ Day Initiative, a nonprofit organization committed to honoring, preserving, and promoting the legacy of American patriotism through education, remembrance events, and community engagement. In this role, she contributes her leadership, advocacy, and fundraising expertise while helping to shape impactful programs that connect communities through history and shared values.

A direct descendant of the Filles du Roi, Debbie embodies a spirit of service, strength, and inspiration. With her unmatched ability and passion for helping others succeed, she remains the go-to professional for anyone looking to build a lasting and fulfilling career.