Academic success is about more than just grades, according to Sue Whorton. Both cognitive and non-cognitive factors play into outcomes. Whorton plans to address those factors–and more–in new role as director of the Class of 1956 Academic Success Center. Whorton will begin her new position July 1.
The Clemson alumna brings to the position more than 25 years of experience in higher education, both academic and student affairs positions. Whorton currently directs the Bridge to Clemson University and transfer academic programs, where she manages academic support, academic advising, student engagement, and transition programs for Bridge to Clemson students and new transfer students. Before that, she lead the Early Success Program and oversaw freshman academic programs in the Academic Success Center.
In her new role, Whorton wants to implement strategies to help students to maximize the benefit they derive from their Clemson experience so that they are prepared for success after graduation. Those include:
- Providing success services that meet the diverse needs of students,
- Tailoring services to students to where they are on their path to graduation,
- Using evidence to inform and enhance programs and services,
- Developing thriving and sustainable campus partnerships,
- Identifying and minimize barriers and gaps, and
- Creating a supportive environment that contributes positively to students’ overall educational experience and satisfaction.
“All students who become well-equipped with learning and self-management tools can succeed at Clemson University,” said Whorton. “We’ll continue to build on the great foundation laid by Elaine Richardson and the rest of the ASC staff to provide students with those tools.”
Before coming to Clemson in 2000, Whorton held positions at Bowling Green State University, the University of Dayton and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
Whorton earned her bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University in 1985, a Master of Arts in College Student Personnel from Bowling Green State University in 1988, a Master of Arts in Theological Studies from the University of Dayton in 1994, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership from Clemson in 2009.
