Suzanne S. Youngkin proudly served as First Lady of the Commonwealth of Virginia alongside her husband of almost 32 years, the 74th Governor of Virginia. Throughout her tenure, she dedicated herself to listening to Virginians, celebrating the remarkable work happening across the Commonwealth, and championing initiatives that strengthen families and communities.
With a steadfast commitment to supporting Virginia’s Women and Girls (W+g), Mrs. Youngkin advanced efforts focused on behavioral health, overall well-being, and workforce preparedness. She worked to connect individuals and families with trusted organizations and practical resources—providing tools for healing, growth, and long-term flourishing.
Deeply concerned by the unprecedented rise in substance use, human trafficking, and youth suicide, Mrs. Youngkin used her platform to raise awareness and inspire action. Through her It Only Takes One initiative, she partnered with the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth (VFHY), state agencies, families, and health organizations to confront the dangers of fentanyl poisoning and to educate on prevention. She also advocated for open dialogue around addiction, anxiety, and depression, helping to reduce stigma and encourage hope. As a result, in the four years that the Youngkins served, the Commonwealth led the nation in the overall reduction of fentanyl overdose deaths.
Mrs. Youngkin established the ‘Spirit of Virginia Award’ to recognize individuals and organizations exemplifying extraordinary goodwill and community impact. She also led the Governor’s effort to donate 100% of the gubernatorial salary to worthy nonprofits. As a result, charities from every corner of the Commonwealth received encouragement, accolades and much-needed funds.
As steward of the historic Virginia Executive Mansion, Mrs. Youngkin honored its legacy while introducing first-of-a-kind art exhibits. Collaborating with museums, institutions, and living artists from Virginia, her “Art Experience at the Executive Mansion” showcased original works and artifacts reflecting the Commonwealth’s heritage, talents, natural beauty and rich diversity.
Mrs. Youngkin also prioritized meaningful engagement in Petersburg through the Partnership for Petersburg—an initiative aimed at revitalizing the community. Today, she remains actively involved in volunteering in Petersburg schools.
During her time as First Lady, Mrs. Youngkin served as an honorary member of several boards, including the State Ballet of Virginia, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts Council, and the Wolf Trap Associates Board. She continues to be the Honorary Chair of the Friends of the Washington Statue — a charitable organization created during America’s 250th to refurbish and rededicate the George Washington Statue in London’s Trafalgar Square. In this role, she and Governor have hosted dignitaries at Washington’s Virginia home, Mount Vernon, and sponsored educational and bridge-building activities throughout Virginia and in the United Kingdom.
Her work as First Lady builds on her ongoing commitment to numerous nonprofits including Holy Trinity Church, Meadowkirk Retreat Center, leading art organizations, and equine-wellness initiatives. She currently serves as President of the Phos Foundation, a partner in Youngkin and Co., and manages a small equine farm in Northern Virginia. She and Governor Youngkin are the proud parents of four, young-adult children and numerous animals.