Heroes of CentralSquare: Daniel Menard

Everyday heroes rarely ask to be recognized. They just show up. They solve problems. They lift others up, even when the job is hard and the stakes are high.

That’s why we launched Nominate a Hero. We wanted to create a simple way to celebrate the people who lead with purpose and make an impact. Our customers and communities stepped up, nominating individuals who inspire them through hero-grade work. Across every entry, the theme was consistent: resilience, integrity, and leadership demonstrated through action.

We received over 50 incredible submissions, and we want to keep that momentum going. Nominate a hero today and help us continue thanking the people who power our communities.

We recently had the opportunity to speak with one of this year’s recipients: Daniel Menard. Keep reading to hear his inspiring story.

About Daniel

Daniel Menard works for Acadian Ambulance, serving on the front lines of public safety in two critical roles: Senior Dispatch Administrator and Critical Care Paramedic. That combination says a lot. He understands what efficient operations look like in the communications center, and he understands what responders need when they arrive on scene. He connects the two with clarity and consistency.

Daniel was nominated by a colleague at Acadian for going above and beyond in his role. He elevates the people around him, strengthens daily operations, and sets a standard of excellence that others follow. More than anything, he inspires his team by doing the work alongside them.

Time and time again, Daniel has shown a relentless commitment to helping his team and community—from everyday demands to major storms and natural disasters.

“Daniel exemplifies the spirit of this Hero Program: someone who goes above and beyond, not for recognition, but for the good of the entire organization.”

— Colleague of Daniel Menard

Q&A

1. What inspires you to be Hero-Grade?

“What inspires me to be Hero-Grade is the understanding that this work is bigger than any one person. Every day, public servants show up for their communities with dedication and courage, often without recognition. Knowing that my role helps support their mission pushes me to give my best. Being Hero-Grade means leading with purpose, acting with integrity, and always remembering that the work we do has a real impact on real lives.”

2. What impact are you most proud of in the communities you serve?

“I’m most proud of the trust I’ve been able to build with the people I serve. When agencies know they can depend on you—especially during critical moments—that trust turns into meaningful impact. I take pride in helping to remove barriers, strengthen operations, and support those who are committed to protecting and serving their communities.”

3. How do you stay motivated to be Hero-Grade during difficult situations?

“In difficult situations, I stay motivated by staying focused on the mission. Challenges are part of public service, but so is resilience. I remind myself that calm leadership, persistence, and a solutions-first mindset can make all the difference. Even on the toughest days, showing up with consistency and purpose is how progress is made.”

4. How has teamwork impacted your role?

“Teamwork has shaped everything about how I approach my job. The strongest outcomes come from collaboration, shared accountability, and mutual respect. Working alongside people who are equally committed to making a difference reinforces the idea that we are stronger together—and that meaningful change happens when individuals unite around a common purpose.”

5. What advice would you give to others who strive to make a meaningful impact in public service?

“My advice is to lead with purpose and stay committed to the mission, even when the work is challenging. Impact doesn’t always come from big moments. It’s built through consistency, empathy, and integrity over time. Stay curious, stay humble, and never underestimate the difference you can make by simply doing the right thing, day after day.”

6. Looking ahead, how do you hope to continue serving your community?

“I hope to continue to be a steady partner to those on the front lines. I want to help drive progress, support innovation, and empower public sector teams to meet the challenges of tomorrow. If I can continue contributing to work that strengthens communities and supports those who serve, that’s a legacy I’m proud to be part of.”

Celebrate the Heroes Around You

Daniel’s story is a reminder that heroism is rarely loud. It shows up in steady leadership, problem solving, and a willingness to rise to the challenge when others need you most.

His story also reinforces the impact that dispatchers make every day. Telecommunicators are vital first responders. They’re dispatch heroes, directing help to the right place and protecting communities with every call.

Nominate a Hero has given us the chance to hear more inspiring stories about the lifesaving work CentralSquare customers do every day. Do you have a story to share? Nominate a hero today and help us recognize the people who keep your operations moving.