Suzanne Sims-Strang, Faculty Administrator
What I Do
I’m lucky enough to support some amazing minds like Professors Stephen Boyd, John Duchi, Sanjay Lall, and Tsachy Weissman. But that’s not all – I also help keep things running smoothly for a whole bunch of exciting programs, including the Information Systems Lab, the Stanford Compression Forum, the Information Theory Forum, and the SHTEM Summer High School Internship Program. It’s a mix of brilliant people and cutting-edge work, and I’m thrilled to be part of it all!
Origins
Born in Modesto, California and raised in San Francisco, California, I arrived at Electrical Engineering (EE) via a path that could only be described as “electrifying!” It all started in Long Beach, CA in the 1920s, where my grandfather owned a radio repair shop. Then there’s my uncle, a Civil Engineer, and my dad, who helped design motors for Volkswagen race cars. You could say I grew up surrounded by circuits, gears, and engineering creativity. Little wonder EE always intrigued me!
I graduated with a Business Administration degree from San Francisco State, but my career journey has been far from typical. From dog groomer to florist shop worker, dance instructor to office assistant, I’ve worn many hats. I’ve been a performing musician, swim instructor, lifeguard, and waitress. I’ve also managed an auto repair shop, worked as a retail manager, and assisted as a mortgage associate. In fact, I even served as a General Contractor (CFO), bookkeeper, hotel manager, insurance agent, and music teacher. I've also been an office manager for a real estate brokerage and a customer service representative for a major construction retailer. Did I mention on top of all that, I’ve started three businesses? Auto shop with my dad, a consignment shop, and a baking business!
But let’s be real – my most important roles are being a wife and mom to 6 amazing kids (4 of whom are step-kids, but I love them as my own) and being the proud grandma of 6.
And here I am now, bringing all those experiences together, diving into the world of Electrical Engineering!
My EExperience
I've truly enjoyed transitioning into academia at Stanford, where I have the chance to reflect on my work in a more analytical way. This shift has broadened my perspective, teaching me new levels of patience and understanding. I'm fortunate to collaborate with brilliant minds from around the globe, and the support from my department has been exceptional—helpful, kind, and always informative. Additionally, I’ve had the opportunity to take courses, join committees, and actively pursue my own educational goals, all of which have been incredibly fulfilling.
Outside of Work
Well, I just got remarried, so that's currently stealing the spotlight in my personal life! When I'm not busy with that, I’m a performer—singing and playing the flute—and I've discovered that teaching is where my heart really is. I still love baking, gardening, and spending time with family and friends. I'm also passionate about fighting world hunger and dedicate time to supporting local and global charities.
Favorite Spot
My favorite spot on campus is the Stanford Memorial Church and my favorite spot off campus is anywhere holding my new husband's hand. (But Evvia Estiatorio is lovely!)
Selfie with Ronald while delivering Valentine cards that EE staff made for kids and their families.