Madelyne D’Angelo
Chief Human Resources Officer, Riverside Research
Madelyne D’Angelo led the recent launch of Riverside Research Ascend, a cohort-based leadership development program. Ascend combines formal assessment, group learning, peer coaching, individual coaching and a capstone project to help leaders put what they learn into practice. Riverside Research welcomed its first 16-member cohort in late September, because investing in strong leaders is an investment in people and the work they do, D’Angelo said.
“People want opportunities to grow, and they want to know their organization is invested in them,” she added. “Ascend and our new workshops give employees time to build skills, learn from one another and bring what they’ve learned back to their teams.”
Her team also helps government partners by investing in the people who lead and support their work. When Riverside Research’s leaders know how to develop their teams, remove obstacles and bring out the best in people, the workforce is better equipped to deliver for the mission. “That’s why professional development matters to us,” D’Angelo said. “Its impact extends well beyond the individual.”
Why Watch
In 2026, D’Angelo’s team is focused on making professional development more practical and accessible across Riverside Research. Alongside Ascend, they’ve added three interactive, small-group workshops to the People and Program Leaders Content Library, focused on mentoring, employee development and recognizing and rewarding employees. They are also piloting a more formal approach to workforce development, so employees have clearer opportunities to grow and apply new skills in their work.
“Madelyne knows this business,” said Tom Lash, president and CEO of Riverside Research. “She understands our people, our programs and the challenges our teams face, and she brings that knowledge to the decisions we make and the strategies we build. That’s what makes her a true partner in Riverside Research’s success.”
Fun fact: D’Angelo is afraid of fish — and pretty much anything that lives in the water.