Suzanne Prentiss ‘86, P’19

Saint Michael’s College proudly recognizes Suzanne M. Prentiss ’86 as Alumna of the Year, honoring her exceptional career in public service and her lifelong commitment to caring for others in moments of greatest need.
Sue’s journey of service began right here on campus as a member of Saint Michael’s College Fire & Rescue, where she first answered the call to help others. That early experience shaped a career dedicated to emergency response, public health, and community leadership—an embodiment of the Edmundite tradition of faith in action.

Today, Sue is serving in her third term as a New Hampshire State Senator, representing 15 towns, where she brings her expertise and compassion to policymaking that impacts communities across her state. Her legislative work includes service on the Senate Education Committee and the Executive Departments & Administration Committee, as well as a national appointment by U.S. Department of Transportation leadership to the National Emergency Medical Services Advisory Committee, where she represents the legislative voice on critical EMS issues.

In addition to her public service, Sue is the Executive Director of the American Trauma Society, a national organization dedicated to eliminating needless death and disability from injury. In this role, she leads efforts to strengthen trauma systems, advance regionalized care, and support survivors and their families—work that has a direct and lasting impact on countless lives.

Her career reflects deep expertise and leadership at every level of emergency medical services, including serving as Chief of EMS for the New Hampshire Department of Public Safety, Manager of EMS for Concord Hospital, and as an advocate for the Emergency Medical Services Interstate Compact (REPLICA). Earlier in her career, she also served her community as Mayor of Lebanon, New Hampshire and as a City Councilor.

Even now, Sue remains grounded in the hands-on work that first inspired her—continuing to hold her paramedic certification while advancing system-level change across the country.

Throughout her career, Sue Prentiss has exemplified the values of Saint Michael’s College: a commitment to service, a dedication to justice and community, and a belief in using one’s talents to make a meaningful difference. Her path, from Fire & Rescue at St. Mike’s to national leadership in emergency medical systems, serves as a powerful example for fellow alumni and future Purple Knights alike.