Abby Sussman

After spending 20+ years as a backcountry park ranger, outdoor educator and remote science support manager, Abby joined UWC-USA in 2020 as Director of Residential Life. In 2025, she moved into her current role as Wilderness and Outdoor Adventure Manager. Abby works with a cohort of outdoor educators to send our students into regional wilderness areas for backpacking and rock climbing expeditions. Abby also manages the biking and swimming programs, and strives to give students access to these important skills. Abby has a BA in Writing from Ithaca College and a MS in Geography from Western Washington University. A long time Wilderness First Responder, Abby also has a certificate in Risk Management for Administrators from National Outdoor Leadership School. She lives on campus with her husband, August and their son.

About Abby

Title/Position

Wilderness & Outdoor Adventure Manager

Education

M.S. Geography, Western Washington University
B.A. Writing, Ithaca College

Passions

Spending time with my family, long outdoor adventures, snow and mountains!

Languages

English, some Hebrew

Q&A with Abby

What do you love about teaching or your role at the school?

I love watching students grow and change over the course of their two years.

What do you think parents and students should know about you?

My goals for the program are to allow students a chance to experience challenge and adventure, along with autonomy and sense of community. In the outdoors, this can be uncomfortable! Balancing this with student safety and well-being is my priority.