On April 26, 2023, The Catholic University of America hosted its Staff Excellence Awards Ceremony in honor of the meritorious contributions faculty and staff have made to the life of the University. From among a university-wide group of staff and administrators, Susan Smith Newell ‘93, Associate Director for Career and Professional Development, was selected for the University's Student Impact Award.

Newell has positively impacted the career paths of hundreds of law students and recent graduates in the past year. She has provided individual counseling sessions to hundreds of students and meets each student where they are. Many of our students work full-time jobs, have families and attend law school in the evening, so Newell regularly schedules appointments to meet with students in the evening and on weekends. Her work with students is setting them up for long-term success and thoughtful, deliberate career paths.

Her colleague Julie Dietrich, Assistant Dean for Career & Professional Development, shared in response to Newell's award, “Her positivity and dedication to the students has translated into an increase in student engagement at professional development events and in students seeking career counseling appointments and advice. It is a regular occurrence to have students send notes or stop by in person to thank Susan. While we are seeing an immediate positive impact on the students, I believe Susan’s individualized approach will have long-lasting effects beyond the students’ time here at Catholic.”

The Student Impact Award is presented to a staff member who has gone above and beyond to positively impact the quality of life of students at Catholic University through access, resources, mentorship, or service.