Meet Susan Jefferson, Director, Campus Development

Melissa Villeneuve -

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I was born and raised in Lethbridge. My family has owned and operated Draffin’s Pharmacy since 1946 and continue to be active, proud members of the Lethbridge community.  My life is centred in the arts with years of piano lessons, as a member of the Anne Campbell Singers, and a love of drama and theatre. Lethbridge provided many opportunities and continues to be an expressive, creative place for me.  My love of architecture and design fueled the desire to move to Toronto.  I enjoyed many great years working on a variety of projects across Canada but eventually the commute, cost and distance from family had me wanting to come home. 

How long have you been at ULethbridge, and what do you do here?

I moved back to Lethbridge in 2023. I am on the executive board of the Chinook Outdoor Club, the Lethbridge Historical Society, and have a seat on the Historical Advisory Planning Committee with the City of Lethbridge. My role as the Director, Campus Development is to work alongside the facilities team in maintaining and building a community driven campus that reflects our unique character.  My goal is to bring meaningful and thoughtful ideas forward that will create truly great spaces that resonate.

What's the best part of your job?

  1. Design and architecture play a significant role in how we experience space, I absolutely believe this, and it motivates and inspires me to keep learning.
  2. I love the complexity the University of Lethbridge campus brings in terms of the kinds of things I get involved in. I look forward to aligning interior space with our strategic goals and brand updates.
  3. Finally, working and walking around the University every day allows me to observe how our solutions are working in real time. I have also had the chance to work with research and academic contributors that bring a wealth of knowledge to the table.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

The Rocky Mountains, coulees and surrounding nature are a big reason for my moving back here. I am enjoying fixing up my 1950s bungalow tucked under two massive pine trees.  I try to keep very active and hike, bike, enjoy long walks through the coulees. I have attended some great concerts, plays and gallery exhibits all walkable from my home.