Meet Leslie Sullivan, OC’s registrar and Veteran’s Affairs certifying official. In Leslie’s role, she works with students to help them achieve their academic and career goals, specializing in assisting student-veterans. Regardless of Leslie’s busy schedule, she is never hesitant to help a student in need. Leslie’s dedication to Comets is most evident through her commitment to The University of Olivet – next year, she will celebrate her 10-year work anniversary.
Why do you love working at OC?
My passion for this job starts and ends with the students. To be a part of their dreams and future is as rewarding as being a mother!
What’s it like to be OC’s registrar and VA Certifying Official?
While I’m not big on titles, but rather intent on getting the job done, a registrar’s role would be to provide services and information to students, faculty and staff. I maintain academic records and transcripts, oversee enrollment and registration, and perform degree audits. I work very closely with Nicole Baker, assistant dean for academic records, on degree audits and other items to ensure student success! Because I am in the same office with our financial aid team, I am crossed trained in this area to assist my colleagues as well.
As the VA Certifying Official, it is my responsibility to align myself with the programs and support services designed to help veterans, guardsmen, reservists, and all others receiving military benefits to make the most of the educational opportunities The University of Olivet has to offer. My specific role is to assist with certification, registration and the update of student enrollment with the Department of Veteran Affairs.
Why are you passionate about serving military students?
My father was in the military and I have known many others over the years who have served, including some who have not returned from duty. I feel an innate desire to take care of those who have taken care of us, and this stems from my greatest role in life as a mother. I have three amazing children, five incredible grandchildren and a one-year-old great granddaughter. This fuels and fills me, and I am truly grateful these dedicated men and women choose to protect our country and our rights.
What do you most look forward to in your role?
Every day I look forward to making someone’s day. As a former general manager, my role was to mentor and motivate people each and every day. I subscribe to a philosophy called FISH! where potential is realized and energy is released allowing people to be the best they can be. I love it when students realize their own passion. This makes my day!
Why is attending OC the “Best. Decision. Ever.”?
My first reaction to this question is that by attending a small college as opposed to a larger one, students get the feeling they count because we consistently demonstrate how much we care. They also have opportunities for collaboration with professors for more of a shared experience. In addition, we offer freedom in our curriculum with internships and independent studies. The commitment from our professors is more one-on-one and definitely relationship building that carries on well after they graduate!
What is the number one piece of advice you share with students?
Be yourself and listen to your heart because it knows, and don’t be afraid to take risks, they make life vivid!
What is an interesting or little known fact about yourself?
I live in and run a bed and breakfast in Marshall with my love and best friend, Andy. It’s so much fun and we have met people from all over the country and world. We have a large Queen Anne home that is one block from downtown and we love it when people come for the first time and create their very own Marshall memory. I am also a writer by passion and am working on a book for my children.
Learn more about the opportunities for student-veterans at The University of Olivet by contacting the Office of Admissions at 800.456.7189 or admissions@olivetcollege.com.