Paula Sumner-Walker
Chandler ,AZ
Summary
Results-oriented professional with expertise in strategic planning and engagement while driving initiatives that enhance organizational performance. Developed and mentored new advisors to improve onboarding practices while fostering cross-departmental collaboration.
Overview
15
15
years of professional experience
Work History
Executive Student Success Advisor
Walden University / Covista (formerly Adtalem )
Chicago, Illinois
08.2025 - Current
- Coordinated strategic initiatives that streamlined processes and improved overall organizational performance.
- Facilitated communication between departments to support project alignment and execution.
- Assisted in developing policies that promote employee engagement and retention.
- Advised and supported over 600+ nurse practitioners and post-master's certificate candidates in their academic journey via course registration, degree requirements, while navigating student through degree completion.
- Trained new Student Success Advisors to enhance onboarding processes.
- Demonstrated consistent performance by exceeding departmental metrics in the College of Nursing.
- Managed scheduling and logistics for executive meetings and events, ensuring seamless execution and alignment with strategic goals.
- Appointed Change Champion to identify and address trends impacting Student Success Operations, facilitating proactive solutions with management.
- Provided backup manager support serving as the primary point of contact for our team addressing concerns, and assisted with student appointments.
Senior Student Success Advisor
Walden University / Covista (formerly Adtalem)
Chicago, Illinois
09.2023 - Current
- Advised students through the entire student life cycle: new student to post graduation overseeing 600+ students quarterly
- Led academic progress initiatives for College of Nursing and served as rapid response lead, facilitating smooth transitions for new and returning students.
- Advised students through the entire student life cycle: new student to post graduation overseeing 600+ students quarterly
- Provided backup and managerial support for the team during management absences.
- Facilitated group discussions to enhance learning experiences.
- Collaborated with peers on research projects and presentations.
Student Success Advisor
Walden University / Covista (formerly Adtalem)
Chicago , Illinois
11.2011 - Current
- Advised students on academic planning and course selection.
- Facilitated communication between students and academic departments to enhance information flow.
- Tracked student progress and pinpointed areas needing support for academic success.
- Collaborated with faculty to address student concerns effectively.
- Assisted in developing student support programs and resources.
- Built strong relationships with students through consistent check-ins and personalized meetings.
Education
Master of Science - Industrial And Organizational Psychology
Walden University
Columbia, Maryland01-2023
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
University of Phoenix
Phoenix, Arizona01-2007
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Brigham Young University
Provo, Utah01-1999
Skills
- Academic advising
- New Hire Training
- Strategic planning
- Project coordination
- Change management
- Cross-departmental collaboration
- Team collaboration
- Strong communication
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, Salesforce, Banner, and CANVAS
- Relationship building
Languages
Spanish
Full Professional
Accomplishments
- Arizona Humane Society Compassion for Fashion 2018-2023
Co-Chair and Committee Member, 2018-2023 - Leukemia and Lymphoma "Man and Woman" of the Year Campaign, 2019-2022
Campaign Manager and Committee Member, 2019-2020 - Junior League of Phoenix, 2013-2019
Mary Harriman Community Leadership Recipient Award, 2017 - Junior League of Phoenix Foundation: Board of Directors and Fundraising Chair, 2017-2019
- United Way and Walden University / Adtalem fund raising committee, 2023
- Nominated for City of Chandler Commissioner and Board of Directors, 2019
Timeline
Executive Student Success Advisor
Walden University / Covista (formerly Adtalem )
08.2025 - Current
Senior Student Success Advisor
Walden University / Covista (formerly Adtalem)
09.2023 - Current
Student Success Advisor
Walden University / Covista (formerly Adtalem)
11.2011 - Current
Master of Science - Industrial And Organizational Psychology
Walden University
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
University of Phoenix
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Brigham Young University