Suzanne Bentzel

Representing WVU in Washington, D.C., Suzanne provides leadership for the University’s relationships with federal officials and staff. She works directly with the West Virginia Delegation, federal agencies and higher education organizations to communicate, engage and advocate for priorities that impact the University. Prior to joining WVU in August 2015, she served as U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller’s director of appropriations and legislative aid for higher education issues. From 1988 through June 2010, Suzanne served in a number of roles for former U.S. Senator Robert C. Byrd, including staff assistant, projects assistant, projects director and professional staff on the Senate Appropriations Committee. In later years on the Senate Appropriations Committee, she oversaw the development and advancement of all West Virginia-related appropriations initiatives for Senator Byrd, including investments supporting existing and new federal agency operations, transportation infrastructure, military construction, defense, higher education capital infrastructure and research programs and community development. Suzanne holds a BA in International Studies from WVU. She has served on the board of the WVU Alumni National Capital Area Chapter and is currently a member of the West Virginia State Society Board.