In the College of Professional Studies, Villanova’s newest college, Susan Leighton oversees student academic support and advising as part of the team that is carrying out the college’s mission to serve adult learners. CPS students are pursuing an education at Villanova that broadens their perspectives, challenges them to think in new ways and creates new opportunities.
Every day, Leighton regularly meets with adult students who are highly ambitious, intellectually curious and enthusiastically engaged in their communities. CPS students remind Leighton of her own journey, and of the hard work, determination and mentorship that brought her to this point.
Leighton’s experiences at Villanova—as both a staff member and a student—have been shaped by the personal attention she’s received along the way. As she was promoted numerous times to roles in the Fitzpatrick College of Nursing and the Provost’s Office, all while advancing her bachelor’s degree studies, professors, colleagues and supervisors provided guidance and support.
A lifelong learner whose story is defined by mentorship, Leighton draws on these experiences to develop strong bonds with the students she now advises and inspires.
“I always knew that when I was in a position to help others, I wanted to be a mentor and a positive example, just like others were for me,” says Leighton, who is now also pursuing her MBA from the Villanova School of Business. “Our students know that I came through CPS, so I fully understand their experience and I’m here to help them navigate their paths and find their purpose.”