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.
How to Get Involved
Starting is simple. Whether you are newly in recovery, have years of experience, or are simply recovery-curious, Compass welcomes you. Here is how students at Providence College find their way in.
1.
Reach Out for a Brief Chat
Your first step is simply a conversation. Contact Susan Ellingwood for a confidential 15-minute phone call or email. No commitment required — just an open door.
No forms. No pressure.
2.
Attend Your First Meeting
No prior registration needed. Simply show up. A personal welcome awaits you.
All are welcome.
3.
Find Your People
Join a workshop, share a community meal, go on a retreat, or simply hang out. The friendships built here are the foundation of lasting recovery.
Fun. Real. Yours.
4.
Become a Compass Member
For students who are interested in formalizing membership, benefits include consultation on a personal recovery program.
On your timeline.
Who Can Join
Compass is open to every PC student.
You do not need to identify in any particular way to be welcome here. Our community includes students at every stage of their journey.
Students in Recovery
Whether you have been in recovery for years or just started, Compass provides community, support, and belonging throughout your PC experience.
Allies & Supporters
Friends, roommates, and family members are a vital part of recovery. Recovery Allies offer meaningful and informed support. Groups and workshops foster deeper connection within the Ally and Recovery communities.
Recovery-Curious Students
Exploring sobriety or a more mindful lifestyle? Learn protective behavioral and coping strategies that support your wellbeing.
Peer Leaders
Experienced members can step into leadership — mentoring newcomers and helping shape the future of Compass at PC.
Programs Built for You
Certified Peer Recovery Coaching
More Information
Certified Peer Recovery Coaching
One-on-one support from a Certified Peer Recovery Coach — individuals with lived experience.
PC Alumni in Recovery Connection
More Information
PC Alumni in Recovery Connection
Connect students with a PC graduate for meaningful mentorship and connection.
Soberish
More Information
Soberish
A peer community for sober-curious and mindful lifestyles.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
More Information
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction
Mindfulness practices to reduce stress and build resilience.
Retreats
More Information
Retreats
Seasonal retreats for reflection, renewal, and community.
Activities & Events
More Information
Activities & Events
Social events and outings that make recovery fun and life full.
All Recovery
More Information
All Recovery
Whatever you are navigating, you belong in this community. Alcohol & Substance Use | Depression | Mood Disorders | Eating Disorders | Anxiety | Panic | Obsessive Compulsive Disorder | Gambling | Behavioral Addictions | Sports Betting
SMART Recovery
More Information
SMART Recovery
SMART Recovery Science-based tools for building motivation and coping skills.
Yoga
More Information
Yoga
Restorative sessions supporting healing and self-awareness.
Community Meals
More Information
Community Meals
Shared tables and stories – building friendship and belonging.
Recovery Allies
More Information
Recovery Allies
Empowering friends and family to walk alongside loved ones.
Off-Campus Recovery Residence
More Information
Off-Campus Recovery Residence
Ask us about our Off-Campus Recovery Residence — coming soon to the Compass community.
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
Rosemary F. Mugan, PsyD
Executive Director of the Personal Counseling Center
401.865.2343
rmugan@providence.edu
Steve Sears Ed.D., MBA
Senior Vice President of Student Affairs & Dean of Students
401.865.1782
ssears@providence.edu
