Susan Cardillo-Cunningham

Dr. Susan Cardillo-Cunningham is a social work educator, clinician, and public sector leader with nearly 30 years of professional experience in child welfare, behavioral health, higher education, and organizational leadership. Her formal teaching and field of study center on social work practice, field education, trauma-informed care, leadership development, grief and loss, crisis intervention, and emerging applications of sport social work. She holds a Doctor of Social Work degree from Southern Connecticut State University, a Master of Social Work from Fordham University, and a Bachelor of Social Work from Sacred Heart University.

At Walden University, Dr. Cardillo-Cunningham serves as adjunct faculty dedicated to preparing future social workers through student-centered instruction, mentorship, and the integration of evidence-based and ethically grounded practice. She brings both academic and real-world leadership experience into the classroom, helping students connect theory to practice across diverse systems and communities.

Education

DSW, Southern CT State University

MSW, Fordham University Graduate

BSW, Sacred Heart Univerity

Publications

Cardillo-Cunningham, S., Garrison, B. Sidelined by stigma: Exploring self-stigma and mental health help-seeking among college athletes.. Sport Social Work Journal

Cardillo-Cunningham, S. (2025). By choice or circumstance: supporting college athletes transitioning out of sport. . Sport Social Work Journal