Suzanne Shaw Biography

Suzanne Shaw has joined Vanderbilt University as the new Senior Director of Conference Services. Suzanne will oversee all aspects of Summer Conferences, the West End Tower, Intern Housing, and play an instrumental role in supporting the logistical aspects of academic conferences at Vanderbilt University.

Suzanne joins Vanderbilt after serving as the Executive Director for Conferences & Events (YC&E) at Yale University for the past 10 years. As the Executive Director for YC&E, Suzanne was responsible for the strategic execution of programs, services, and fiscal growth for the department.  During her tenure at Yale, Suzanne transformed the business strategy in the department and created innovative marketing strategies resulting in the department tripling in size.  As a result of her leadership, Yale is now recognized as a premier conference, event, and program destination.

Suzanne has been in the hospitality industry for over 25 years, previously employed by Quinnipiac University, Walt Disney World, and South Seas Resorts Company. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Recreation Management from Southern Connecticut State University (SCSU), an M.B.A from Quinnipiac University, and has earned her CCEP (Collegiate Conference & Events Professional) certification. Additionally, she is an adjunct professor and advisor at SCSU where she teaches Event Management and Travel & Tourism and is an industry consultant.

Suzanne stays involved in her community, initiating the start-up, and opening of a YMCA facility and stays active with her three children (Michael age 16, Brianna age 20, and JD age 23).