Suzi Emmerling is a strategic communications and public affairs leader with nearly two decades of experience at the intersection of government, philanthropy, and clean energy. She is the founder and CEO of Calina Strategies, where she advises U.S. solar manufacturers, community solar developers, and clean-energy companies on policy, trade enforcement, and high-stakes public communications related to federal and state initiatives.
Suzi previously served in the Obama Administration as Deputy Chief of Staff and Director of Public Affairs at the U.S. Department of Transportation, where she was part of the executive leadership team and advised Secretary Anthony Foxx on major infrastructure initiatives, transportation policy, and crisis response.
Based in Los Angeles, Suzi has served as Chief Communications Officer for the Broad Foundation, Communications Director for Mayor Eric Garcetti, and Senior Vice President at Boundary Stone Partners. Across these roles, she has led campaigns on infrastructure investment, economic development, and climate and clean-energy policy.
She holds a B.A. in French and Political Science from UCLA and a certificate from Sciences Po Bordeaux, and lives in South Pasadena with her husband and two children.