Her Story
About Yadira
Yadira E. Matias is an accomplished accounting professional and Accounting Services Manager with extensive experience in financial operations, compliance, and business administration. Originally from the Dominican Republic, she immigrated to the United States and overcame significant personal and professional challenges while balancing full-time employment and raising four children. Her dedication to education and self-improvement led her to earn a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Accounting from DeVry University, graduating with honors in 2015.
Throughout her career, Yadira has built a strong foundation in accounting and financial management across both the private and public sectors. After years of serving in various accounting roles within private industry, she transitioned into higher education, where she currently supports the mission of a New Jersey college as Accounting Services Manager. Although she does not work directly with students, she finds great fulfillment in contributing to an institution that helps educate future professionals and serves the broader community. Her expertise includes accounting operations, financial reporting, accounts payable and receivable management, compliance, and process improvement.
Yadira is passionate about lifelong learning, women's empowerment, and creating opportunities for others. She believes in the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and supporting women in leadership, recognizing that collective success benefits society as a whole. Guided by faith, gratitude, family values, and a commitment to service, she aspires to continue advancing professionally, pursue additional certifications, and ultimately expand her impact through leadership and future entrepreneurial endeavors. Her journey stands as a testament to resilience, perseverance, and the power of pursuing personal and professional growth with purpose.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Yadira
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to perseverance, hard work, faith, and a commitment to education. Immigrating from the Dominican Republic presented many challenges, but while raising four children and working full-time, I remained focused on improving my future. I am grateful for the opportunities I have been given, and I believe persistence, dedication, and trusting God have helped me build both a meaningful career and a fulfilling life.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I encourage young women to take their time when making educational and career decisions. There should be no pressure to immediately determine a lifelong career path after high school. It is important to thoughtfully explore your interests and passions before making major investments in your future.
If you know what truly inspires you, pursue it wholeheartedly. However, if you need time to reflect and discover your path, there is nothing wrong with taking a break. I believe people are most successful when they pursue careers that bring them fulfillment rather than simply meeting the expectations of others.
Do not allow peer pressure or societal expectations to rush your decisions. Enjoy the journey, continue learning, and choose a path that aligns with your values and passions.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One challenge I experienced was adapting from the private sector to public higher education, which required a significant shift in perspective and culture. More broadly, women have historically faced barriers to advancement and at times have been encouraged to compete rather than support one another.
At the same time, I see tremendous opportunities for women. There are growing platforms that promote women's leadership, visibility, and professional advancement. I believe the future offers even greater opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and stronger networks among women, which will benefit both individuals and society as a whole.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Service to others, commitment to family, faith, gratitude, and supporting other women are values that guide me every day. I believe in contributing positively to my community and helping create opportunities for others.
I also place great importance on personal health, independence, and lifelong growth. I believe women are stronger when they collaborate and uplift one another, and I am committed to fostering an environment where everyone has the opportunity to succeed.
Keep Exploring
More Influential Women · New Jersey
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.