“LSSU is excited to welcome Steve Betz as our new Government Relations Officer.” President Hanley said, “A deep understanding of policymaking, government affairs, and stakeholder engagement is crucial to developing and executing the University’s mission, and Steve’s extensive experience and knowledge will help us accomplish that.”
Betz will serve as a liaison between the University and the regional, state, and federal governments. Some of his responsibilities will include maintaining and strengthening relationships with governmental agencies and officials, including those in the state capital. Additionally, Betz will be responsible for analyzing the impact of legislative, administrative, and regulatory activities as they pertain to LSSU’s programs and operations.
Betz brings many years of political and legislative experience to LSSU. He previously served as finance director and office manager for former Republican Congressman Nick Smith of Michigan’s 7th District. In this role, Betz organized numerous fundraisers, oversaw campaign expenditures, filed Federal Election Commission finance reports, instituted budgetary changes to keep the campaign fiscally viable and efficient, and also created the campaign’s volunteer program.
Betz also served as a field representative for former Republican Congressman Joe Knollenberg of Michigan’s 11th District. In that role, Betz developed and cultivated relationships with key decision-makers and district stakeholders, where he served as a liaison to regional governmental organizations. Betz represented Congressman Knollenberg at events, conventions, and meetings, and also gave presentations on important issues that affected constituents. Betz tracked legislation, and provided updates to constituents, local officials, interest groups, and educational institutions. He also coordinated outreach events, drafted official correspondence, and directed the Service Academy Nomination Process (West Point, Air Force, Naval, and Merchant Marine Academies).
Most recently, Betz has served as a research assistant at Wayne State University Center for Urban Studies, and also taught Political Science at Monroe County Community College, Siena Heights University, and Adrian College. Betz is completing a doctoral degree in American Politics from Wayne State University, and he holds a master’s degree in American Government from the University of Virginia, and earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science & History from Olivet Nazarene University.
“I love academia and teaching, but this opportunity was too important to ignore,” Betz said. “I can’t wait to get the ball rolling and utilize my experience of how to efficiently get things done in the political arena to enact positive changes for the University.”
Betz and his family are relocating to Sault Ste. Marie from Tecumseh, Michigan. “The whole family is excited for the move.” Betz commented. “Myself, my wife, Cheri, son, Erich, and daughter, Sophia, are all life-long Michiganders; we love this state and are looking forward to embracing the Yooper way of life.”
About the Author
Stephanie RooseMarketing Content Coordinator
Stephanie Roose graduated in 2009 with a BA from Lake Superior State University and has since been working in sales, marketing, and public relations. Roose relocated back home to Sault Ste. Marie, joining the LSSU Marketing and Communications team in January.