Media Center
> October 2, 2003
Susanne Cole named executive director of Pressley Ridge - West Virginia
WEST VIRGINIA--Pressley Ridge has announced the selection of Susanne Cole as the executive director of West Virginia. Cole has served as the interim executive director since August, 2003.
As executive director, Cole will provide leadership and direction to the West Virginia program administration to maintain high quality and fiscally viable services for children with challenging behavior. This includes overseeing program management and operations at five residential treatment facilities, treatment foster care services, educational services, and two community-based service programs.
“One of my first goals is to work closely with systems partners, the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources and the educational system to continue to improve the system of care for children and families in WV so that the barriers are minimized and children and families have access to what they need when they need it,” stated Cole.
Cole’s experience has prepared her well for this leadership position. Cole joined Pressley Ridge in 1990 as a Teacher/Counselor at the Grant Gardens residential program in WV when it first opened its doors and began providing services to troubled children. She continued to advance at Pressley Ridge eventually becoming deputy state director in 2001 for southern WV. One year later, her responsibilities expanded to include northern WV and managing all residential programs.
In addition, Cole stated, “As a West Virginia native,
I am sensitive to the problems that face our children and
families everyday. Our programs at Pressley Ridge ensure quality
services are available within this state so that our children
receive what they need their home communities.”
Cole earned both her masters degree in Special Education and
baccalaureate degree in Criminal Justice from Marshall University
in Huntington, WV. Cole is also a West Virginia Licensed Social
Worker.
Cole was born and raised in Charleston, resided in Huntington
for many years, and currently resides in Bridgeport, West
Virginia with her husband, Steve, and their daughter Sydney.
For more information, call 304.624.9875.