is a political and government affairs consultant and speaker. With nearly 30 years working with the United States Congress, ten in the House, fifteen in the Senate and four representing clients’ interests before Members of Congress, she has a wealth of knowledge and experience to offer her clients and audiences. Susan helps her clients understand, and if needed navigate, the maze that is the legislative process in Washington, DC as efficiently and as effectively as possible. She gives her audiences an honest and often surprising assessment of life under the Dome, including insight into how they and their businesses could be more effective in influencing the process.
In 1983, five years into her career on Capitol Hill, Susan was asked to serve as the Chief of Staff to Republican Congressman Jim Jeffords. At 29, this made Susan one of the youngest Chiefs of Staff and at that time, one of only a handful of women to reach that position.
Five years later, after successfully coordinating Congressman Jeffords’ 1988 Senate bid, Susan began her fifteen-year run as Chief of Staff to a U.S. Senator. Susan’s experience as chief political and legislative strategist for the Senator gave her the opportunity to work with many of the top decisions makers in Washington. In May of 2001, after Senator Jeffords dramatic decision to leave his party and throw control of the Senate to the Democrats, Susan successfully steered the Member as well as his personal and committee staff through the debris field left in the wake of that decision. There are few senior staff on Capitol Hill who have worked closely with the leadership of both the Republican and Democratic caucuses. This access allowed Susan to see the similarities and the differences more clearly than most.
Later that same year, the world changed forever with the unfolding of the events of 9/11. Living and working on Capitol Hill, especially after the unresolved anthrax attack on the Capitol complex just a month later, became an even greater challenge.
Susan’s self-effacing sense of humor and often blunt descriptions of Capitol Hill life result in a thoroughly delightful and insightful view into the world of legislation and politics in Washington, D.C.
To contact Susan Russ: susan@boardmanruss.com or call 281-636-0672.
“This was the highlight of my entire Washington experience. Susan gave a very candid, honest view of her experience on the Hill. Really wish Susan would have been with us the entire day.”
Felicia Beswick, Shell Oil Company
“I really enjoyed the time you spent with us and you did a great job telling your story about life in our political system. Texas A&M really needs to consider adding you to the program going forward. Thanks again.”
Sandy McElligott
Texas Children’s Hospital, Texas A&M EMBA candidate
“Susan Russ was especially politically savvy in a job that required it.”
Senator Harry Reid (D-NV)
Majority Leader, U.S. Senate
“Respect for Susan is felt across the board by both Republicans and Democrats in Washington. She stands out, year after year, as one of the best.”
Senator Patrick Leahy (D-VT)
“Susan . . .not only been a great friend but an important person in the life
of our state; giving us advice and assistance as time goes on with whatever
needs might confront Vermont in the halls of Washington, D.C.”
Governor James Douglas (R-VT)
“Fantastic. Probably the most informative speaker concerning Washington D.C. - inclusive of those speakers in D.C. Clearly knew subject and felt the passion.”
“Excellent and a terrific surprise. Very candid and insightful speaker; mesmerizing.”
“Susan was phenomenal. I would invite her back and give her more time.”
