Susanne M. Foulk, Ed.D., MCPC
Leadership Development Expert | Master Certified Professional Coach | Educator and Researcher
Dr. Susanne M. Foulk is a seasoned professional with a distinguished leadership development, education, and coaching career. Holding a Doctorate in Education with an emphasis on Educational Psychology from the University of Southern California (USC), she has dedicated over 15 years to empowering individuals and organizational leaders through evidence-based strategies, transformative education, and ethically grounded coaching practices.
As an Adjunct Professor at USC's Rossier School of Education, Dr. Foulk teaches leadership, organizational change, and capacity-building courses, preparing professionals to identify challenges, design solutions, and implement strategies for sustainable success. Her role as a Dissertation Associate has allowed her to guide over 200 doctoral candidates in organizational change and leadership research, further solidifying her expertise in fostering academic and professional excellence.
Expertise in Leadership Development
In addition to her teaching and mentoring, Dr. Foulk has served on the Organizational Change and Leadership Governance Committee and Mentoring Committees at Rossier School of Education. In this capacity, she has contributed to initiatives that enhance and enact governance structures, foster collaboration and mentoring, and drive systemic improvements within the school. Her work reflects a commitment to building the capacity of leaders to inspire meaningful change and accountability.
Strengths-Based, Ethics-Driven Coaching Philosophy
As a Master Certified Professional Coach, Dr. Foulk adheres to the ICF Core Competencies and Code of Ethics, ensuring that every coaching interaction is grounded in professionalism, integrity, and respect. Her coaching aligns with the ICF standards, focusing on:
- Establishing and Maintaining Trust: Creating a safe, supportive environment where clients can explore their goals and challenges.
- Active Listening and Powerful Questioning: Using reflective techniques to encourage deeper insights and self-awareness.
- Client Growth: Supporting clients in identifying actionable strategies to achieve their professional and personal aspirations.
- Cultural Awareness: Respecting diverse perspectives and fostering equitable practices in leadership coaching.
This strengths-based, ethics-driven approach ensures that her clients receive the highest-quality coaching, empowering them to lead with authenticity and purpose.
Certifications and Professional Development
Dr. Foulk’s leadership development approach is supported by a strong certification foundation that enhances her ability to coach and mentor effectively:
- Master Certified Professional Coach (Certified Life Coach Institute)
- Certified Wellness Coach (State of California Health Care Access and Information – HCAI)
- Executive Coaching (LinkedIn)
- Learning Design Thinking: Lead Change in Your Organization (LinkedIn)
- Conflict Resolution Foundations (LinkedIn)
- Impact of Trauma on the Brain & Pathways to Healing (DMH-UCLA – Public Mental Health Partnership)
- Comfortable with Challenging Discussions (Center Advanced Faculty Teaching Institute)
Advancing Women’s Leadership
Dr. Foulk is the founding president and Executive Director of the Foundation for Greater Opportunities in Learning (FFGOIL), a nonprofit educational organization dedicated to providing learning opportunities and resources that support the healthy development of children and families. Through the ARISE Women’s Mentoring Program, Dr. Foulk leads the collaborative that trains professional women in leadership and coaching skills to empower their mentees to overcome barriers, achieve their goals, and foster personal and career growth. A portion of every coaching session fee is donated to FFGOIL’s mentoring initiatives, allowing clients to contribute directly to empowering women while investing in their leadership development.
Publications and Contributions
Dr. Foulk has authored research publications and presented nationally on topics ranging from trauma-informed self-care to educational leadership equity in education for foster youth. Her thought leadership continues to inspire change in academic and professional settings.
Services Offered
- One-on-one coaching tailored to leadership and personal development
- Strategies for navigating leadership challenges and fostering personal growth
- Strengths-based coaching, leveraging tools like Clifton Strengths and VIA Character Strengths
"When you invest in your leadership growth, you’re also helping women thrive through mentorship. A portion of every coaching fee and affiliate purchase supports FFGOIL's mentoring program."!-- >
