Valerie Sununu became the first lady of New Hampshire when her husband, Governor Christopher Sununu, was sworn in as New Hampshire’s 82nd governor on Jan. 5, 2017.

Valerie grew up in Chelsea, Massachusetts. She received an academic scholarship to attend Simmons College in Boston. Valeries graduated with both a B.A. in Spanish language and literature and a B.A. in special education. Her first teaching job was for the Chelsea public schools where she had the opportunity to give back to her hometown community. and later attended Harvard University’s School of Education where she earned her Ed.M. in human development and psychology in 2004.
As first lady, Mrs. Sununu worked to raise awareness and increase funding for several causes that support education, childhood development, reading, local and small businesses, and recovery of addiction. She served as board president of the Friends of Bridges House (the New Hampshire executive residence) as well as working tirelessly as a member of the selection committee for Teacher of the Year as part of the Department of Education. She’s also an ambassador for Best Buddies NH. She also created a pollinator garden which features about 1,400 pollinator-friendly plants that are native to New Hampshire. The first lady and her family helped with the planting, aiming for a garden that was beautiful and educational. She also described it as her passion project, but she will tell you her most important job is being a mom.
These a just a few examples. As a person, Valerie is a cheerleader for all and never wants the spotlight unless it is as an advocate for others. She has the biggest heart, a beautiful laugh that energizes and room and an energy to elevate NH that is unmatched.

She is married to former Governor Chris Sununu, and they have 3 children.

Her outstanding achievements include:

• Volunteer
  • Best Buddies
  • Teacher of the Year for NH
  • Hope on Haverhill Women’s Shelter
  • New Generation Shelter
  • Bridges House NH Native Pollinator Garden
  • New Hampshire Humanities
  • Choose Love
  • NH Kid Governor

Favorite Quote: “If you judge people, you have no time to love them” – Mother Teresa

Listen to Valerie Sununu’s full interview below!