Spivey Resigns as Executive Director of the Career Center

Jasmin Sorrell

On March 9, 2026, Joshua Spivey resigned from his role as Executive Director of the Career Center. This prompted a transition in leadership for an office that many students rely on for career guidance and mentorship.  

Spivey began working at Mount St. Mary’s University in October 2023 as the Director of the Career Center, before being promoted to Executive Director in July 2025.  

He has not publicly commented on his resignation at this time.  

Following Spivey's resignation, the university brought in a familiar face to help guide the Career Center during this transition. On March 11, Clare Tauriello began her consulting role with the Career Center. 

Tauriello previously served as the Director of the Career Center from Oct. 2011 until May 2021 and worked as an instructor from Jan. 2018 to May 2020. 

During her time leading the Career Center, the Mount was ranked as the top college in Maryland for employment outcomes in 2018. After leaving the Mount, she worked at Salisbury University, where she helped restructure their Career Center and guide the search for a new director. 

Now returning to the Mount as a Higher Education Career Consultant, Tauriello said her goal is to support the office during this transition while the university searches for a new Executive Director. She emphasized that the Career Center’s priority remains helping students confidently transition from college to their careers by providing a welcoming space for guidance, whether students are searching for jobs, internships or exploring future career paths.  

Tauriello said, “The success of students is the most important thing a university offers.” She added that she is excited to return to campus and support Mount students during this time of transition. 

Patrick Paradzinski, Assistant Director of the Career Center, spoke highly of Tauriello and praised her guidance in her previous role. With Tauriello stepping back into her consulting role, Paradzinski is optimistic that she will serve the students and bring in top numbers in Career Center rankings as she has done before here at the Mount and at Salisbury University.

Many students say Spivey created a welcoming environment where they felt comfortable discussing career goals and concerns.  

Jessica Howe (C’26), who worked closely with Spivey in the Career Center, described him as a mentor who genuinely cared about students. Howe said Spivey’s leadership style immediately stood out. “He had a very easy going and laid-back leadership style that I wasn’t used to, but it made me feel welcomed,” which helped her feel comfortable despite having little experience in a corporate environment.  

Howe explained that Spivey was deeply invested in students’ professional growth and often encouraged her to take on leadership opportunities to build confidence and strengthen her resume. She recalls how he prioritized the well-being of students and staff, often reminding them that “it’s better to take a day off and recharge than to be at work unhappy.” 

When Howe learned of his resignation, she said she felt grateful for his mentorship. “I was sad because he was such a great mentor to me, but I know he is going to do great things." Howe wishes him success as he prepares to complete his doctorate this spring.  

Caleb Asfaw (C’27) reflected on how Spivey’s influence extended far beyond career advice. 

Their first interaction happened unexpectedly in Patriot Dining Hall, when Spivey stopped to introduce himself and asked Asfaw about his life and goals. What began as a simple conversation quickly turned into a meaningful mentorship.

Over time, Spivey helped Asfaw navigate both personal challenges and professional opportunities, offering guidance on everything from real-life situations to connecting with recruiters and career paths he had never imagined pursuing. Asfaw says the impact Spivey leaves behind will not be forgotten. He described Spivey as not only a supporter of students' professional development and someone they could go to for advice, but also as a father figure who genuinely wants the best for their future.  

Asfaw said, “Thank you for being a great supervisor and mentor, the world needs more people like you, especially in the higher education system for all students.”  

University officials say a search for a new Executive Director is underway. With Tauriello assisting during this transition, the Career Center hopes to announce a permanent leader in the near future.