Name: Hannah Beers Sutton
Graduation Year(s): 2016
Major(s): Advertising/Public Relations
Current Position/Job Title: Executive Director, Missouri HRCC
City and State: Jefferson City, MO
Tell us about your career and what you do now. I’ve spent my career in the government and politics industry. Upon graduation, I worked on statewide campaigns during the 2016 cycle. After the general election, I moved to Jefferson City to work for a state senator from Kansas City, where I first served as his Communications Director and then as his Chief of Staff. After he left office, I joined AxAdvocacy (formerly Clout Public Affairs), where I worked in both political consulting and public affairs/lobbying. I spent six years of my career there, starting as a Senior Associate and ending as a Vice President. That work included advocating for my clients’ policies and electing candidates ranging from county clerks to U.S. Senators.
In 2024, I accepted the role of Executive Director of the Missouri House Republican Campaign Committee (HRCC). HRCC is the official campaign arm for the Missouri House Republicans. As Executive Director, I provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the organization’s statewide political efforts, including managing a multi-million-dollar annual budget, leading high-level fundraising initiatives, and directing independent expenditure campaigns to support targeted candidates in competitive general election races.
Tell us one achievement or accomplishment that stands out in your career!
In 2024, despite over $30M of spending from the other side and polling data that indicated we would lose 3-5 House seats, we were able to maintain our majority of 111 seats, some by margins of less than 125 votes.
What is your favorite memory from your time as a student?
I have the fondest memories of my time as a student at Evangel. One of my favorites is a rousing debate over purchasing recycling bins in an ESGA Senate meeting – and the Sonic runs for limeades after!
Some of my fondest memories are the times with my lifelong friends in Burgess Hall – truly the best memories and closest friends!
How did your school help you identify/develop your calling?
I’ve often said that Evangel provided both the space for me to grow and the grace to discover how I was called to serve. I was fortunate to be given meaningful opportunities—through the Evangel Student Government Association (ESGA), campus clubs and activities, and the enduring wisdom of faculty and staff—that continue to shape me to this day.
How did your experience as a student prepare you for life after graduation?
“Thus far the Lord has helped us” – the verse inscribed on Evangel’s clock tower – served as a powerful reminder each time I passed it by. I can’t begin to count how often those words brought me back to the faithfulness of God. Even now, the experiences, relationships, and community I found at Evangel continue to shape and guide my life in profound ways.
What advice would you give a current student preparing for the workforce?
Get involved in everything! Don’t say no to new opportunities. The connections you build and the opportunities you pursue can open doors, shape your aspirations, and provide clarity about the path you want your career to take.
What would you look for if you were in a position to hire new graduates from Evangel?
I look for a strong work ethic rooted in a sense of greater purpose; someone who approaches even the smallest tasks with dedication and intention. Colossians 3:23–24 reminds us to work with all our hearts, as if serving the Lord, not merely human masters. That mindset transforms day-to-day responsibilities into meaningful acts of faith and service.