2009 Distinguished Speaker Suzanne Sutter

Suzanne Sutter, CEO and President of Make-A-Wish Foundation of Eastern NC spoke on "Leadership: You Can Make a Difference," for the 2009 Distinguished Speaker event held Thursday, April 9, at 6 p.m. in the Harris Building. Previously Sutter was President of Things Remembered, Inc. During her 10-year reign as President, she more than doubled earnings through merchandise and marketing innovation, as well as expanded channels of distribution beyond the 650+ store chain. With her leadership, the company developed an outstanding reputation for compassion, giving, and commitment to charities. Sutter’s passion for the cause motivated her to become a leader with the Make-a-Wish Foundation. After serving as a member on the Board of Trustees at both a state and national level, Suzanne was elected to National Board Chair. During her leadership, she spearheaded significant change in the national governance structure, dramatically increased the headquarters’ net assets, and upgraded quality of national leadership. Sutter received a graduate degree in Organization Behavior and Change from Case Western Reserve University. She serves on the advisory committee of the School of Entrepreneurial Studies at Thunderbird University and on the advisory committee of Give Kids the World.