Susan Manchester
Susan Manchester’s journey from The Ohio State University to the halls of government is a testament to how academic preparation and hands-on experience can shape a successful career in public service.
After graduating in 2010 with a B.A. in Psychology and Political Science, Susan spent a year in Valencia, Venezuela, leading a team that engaged university students on matters of culture and religion. This international experience broadened her perspective and strengthened her leadership skills.
Her interest in congressional work began during an internship through Ohio State’s Washington Academic Internship Program (WAIP). “My experience on Capitol Hill showed me what careers are possible with a political science degree, and how my interests and skills could be used,” she recalls. WAIP provided the foundation for her move to Washington, where she joined the staff of Congressman Jim Jordan (OH-04) immediately upon returning to the U.S. She later served as Senior Legislative Assistant for Congressman Raul Labrador (ID-1), overseeing work on the House Judiciary Committee with a focus on criminal justice issues.
Susan returned to Ohio and entered state politics, winning election to the Ohio House of Representatives in 2018. She represented the 78th District, which encompasses Allen County and the northern portion of Auglaize County, and served until 2025. During her tenure, she chaired the House Families, Aging, and Human Services Committee, co-chaired the Ohio Legislative Children Caucus, and championed legislation to protect children, support families, and strengthen agriculture.
In 2025, Susan began her first term as a State Senator representing Ohio’s 12th Senate District, which includes Allen, Auglaize, Champaign, Mercer, and Shelby counties, as well as portions of Darke and Logan counties. Her legislative priorities have included creating the Ohio Youth and Family Ombudsman Office, establishing the Beginning Farmer Tax Credit Program, and closing loopholes to combat human trafficking. Her work has earned recognition statewide, including being named Legislator of the Year by the Public Children Services Association of Ohio and a Champion for Children by the Ohio Children’s Alliance.
Susan encourages Ohio State students to take advantage of opportunities for hands-on political experience. “Ohio State offers a wealth of opportunities for political science students seeking experience in both D.C. and Columbus,” she says. Her coursework in the Political Science Department exposed her to diverse political subjects and provided a strong foundation for her career in applied politics.