User Profile

Executive Director, Sylvan Learning

Susan Valverde is the Franchisee and Executive Director for Sylvan Learning in the Rio Grande Valley, Texas. For the past eleven years she has been responsible for educational programs that serve thousands of students each year, including multiple pilots and grant funded programs targeting the needs of English Language Learners. Susan has helped secure millions of dollars in grant funding for the region, and currently manages over 70 programs related to college readiness, school improvement, teacher quality and blended learning. She collaborates with school districts, charter schools, non-profits and institutes of higher education throughout Texas. While leading her organization, Susan has remained engaged in business, education and policy initiatives through involvement with local Chambers of Commerce, appointments to State organizations such as the Texas Lyceum, and as an elected representative in her National Franchise Owners Association. Prior to joining Sylvan, Susan worked as Director of Business Development for the McAllen Economic Development Corporation where she was responsible for recruiting new employers and working with stakeholders in education and workforce development. She holds a Bachelor's degree in International Business and an MBA from the University of Texas Pan American. Susan is a Fellow of the 9th class of the Pahara-Aspen Fellowship and a member of the Aspen Global Leadership Network.