Sara Connolly, Ph.D.
Office Location
Sara Connolly, Ph.D., serves as a leader overseeing and coordinating programs supporting the recruitment, retention, education and graduation of students. In this role, Connolly works with students and faculty to improve student retention and graduation rates and help students reach their goals.
Connolly has taught several courses, many of which are centered around higher education and research. Additionally, she prepares master’s students for entry level practice in student affairs through a focus on the NASPA and ACPA competencies.
Before joining Sacred Heart University in 2019, Connolly was associate provost for the University of Bridgeport.
Degrees & Certifications
- Ph.D., State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
- MA, State University of New York at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
- BA, State University of New York College at Fredonia, Fredonia, New York
Research Interests & Grants
Connolly’s research centers on the success of undergraduate students, focusing primarily on the various causes and sources of attrition of college students.
- NODA – National Orientation Directors Association. Grant to study The Relationship between Social Isolation, Rejection Sensitivity, Self-Efficacy and Retention. 2016-2017
- ACPA – Commission for Admissions, Orientation and First Year Experience: Grant to use for study on New Student Orientation in Online Education. April 2008