Compass Collegiate Recovery Program
About The Compass Collegiate Recovery Program
Compass is a collegiate recovery community at Providence College dedicated to supporting students in recovery – and their trusted allies – as they pursue their academic goals.
Grounded in the College’s commitment to the development of the whole person, Compass offers peer connection, professional support, and access to campus resources. The program empowers students to engage fully in academic and social life while strengthening and sustaining their recovery.
Reach out to Compass — we are here for you.
Our Mission
You belong here. You define what recovery means to you.
Compass is a safe, supportive community where students on unique and individualized paths of recovery grow in purpose, resilience, and wholeness.
Rooted in Providence College’s Dominican Catholic tradition of Veritas – truth – we walk alongside students as they build lives of purpose and wholeness.
What Guides Us
Connection
No one walks alone. We foster genuine relationships that sustain and strengthen recovery.
Community
A welcoming, judgment-free space where every student is known, valued, and celebrated.
Thriving in Recovery
Recovery is not just surviving — it is flourishing academically, spiritually, and personally.
Who Compass Serves
Compass is open to every PC student on their unique and individualized pathway of recovery. Students do not need to identify in any particular way to be welcome.
Doorways Into Recovery
- Alcohol & Substance Use
- Depression
- Mood Disorders
- Eating Disorders
- Anxiety & Panic
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
- Gambling & Sports Betting
- Behavioral Addictions
Who Can Be Referred
- Students in Recovery: Any student at any stage of recovery.
- Allies & Supporters: Friends or family supporting a loved one.
- Recovery-Curious Students: Exploring sobriety or mindful lifestyles.
- Peer Leaders: Interested in mentoring and leadership.
Programs & Services
Certified Peer Recovery Coaching
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Certified Peer Recovery Coaching
One-on-one support from a Certified Peer Recovery Coach — individuals with lived experience.
GROUPS & PEER SUPPORT
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GROUPS & PEER SUPPORT
• All Recovery — open to all pathways • Ally in Recovery — for supporters • SMART Recovery • Soberish — sober-curious community
Off-Campus Recovery House
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Off-Campus Recovery House
Coming Soon!
PC Alumni in Recovery Connection
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PC Alumni in Recovery Connection
Connect students with a PC graduate for meaningful mentorship and connection.
WELLNESS & COMMUNITY
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WELLNESS & COMMUNITY
• Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction • Yoga • Community Meals • Retreats • Activities & Events
How to Make a Referral
- Reach out directly to a contact below via email or phone to discuss student’s needs and appropriate next steps.
- With the student’s awareness, provide a warm introduction or share the Compass contact information with them.
- Encourage the student to contact Susan Ellingwood for a confidential 15-minute phone call or email. No forms. No pressure.
- Follow up as appropriate. Compass staff are available to consult with you at any time.
Campus Partners
Personal Counseling Center | Student Health Center | Dean of Students Office | CARE Team | Student Success Center | Recreational Sports/Concannon Fitness Center | Chaplains & Campus Ministry
Contacts
Susan Ellingwood LICSW, CAADC
Assistant Director of Substance Use Services
401.865.2343
sellingw@providence.edu
Steve Sears Ed.D., MBA
Senior Vice President of Student Affairs & Dean of Students
401.865.1782
ssears@providence.edu
Beth Sculley Terrell M.Ed
Assistant Dean of Students & Director of Residence Life
401.865.2605
bsculley@providence.edu
Fr. Simon Teller, O.P.
