Piedmont Profile: Susan Hannifan

Like any educational institution, Piedmont Virginia Community College can be difficult for many students, including those who suffer from disabilities. Fortunately, Susan Hannifan, the Disability Services Counselor, is here to help any students who find themselves struggling in class. Located in the Main Buildings Room M125, Hannifan can provide all the help that students need to make it through the semester.

Born in a small town in Rhode Island, Hannifan was the first person in her family to attend college. During her undergraduate studies, an interest in education led Hannifan to start a career in teaching, but disliked the classroom environment and reconsidered her options.

While taking a sociology class, Hannifan had to complete specific service requirements. She fulfilled this requirement by volunteering at a local group home for children. There, she would tutor children outside of the classroom setting, and even take them for recreational activities.

Hannifan eventually changed her major from education to social work, and with a great deal of effort, she obtained a bachelor’s degree in social work from Rhode Island College and a master’s degree in rehabilitation counseling from Virginia Commonwealth University.

From there, she eventually settled into Disabilities Services at PVCC.

“It is fulfilling to work with students,” said Hannifan, “and assist them by providing the support they need. My favorite day on my job is graduation day when I see the students I have worked with through the years cross that stage to receive their degrees.”

Susan Hannifan has many hobbies, including cooking, gardening, and reading. She also works out at the gym to keep herself in physical health. She lives in Fluvanna County and enjoys the rural setting that it provides.

Hannifan enjoys spending her free time with her dog who is part beagle and part Jack Russell terrier.