Susan E. Savage

Susan E. Savage is an American politician and civic leader who served as the 36th Mayor of Tulsa from 1992 to 2002. A member of the Democratic Party, she was the first woman elected to the office and remains the longest-serving mayor in the city's history. Her tenure was marked by significant economic development initiatives and efforts to improve regional cooperation across the Tulsa metropolitan area.

Early life and education

Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma in 1949, Savage grew up in the city's Brookside neighborhood. She attended Monte Cassino School before earning her bachelor's degree in education from the University of Tulsa. Her early professional experience included work in the Tulsa Public Schools system and involvement with local community organizations, which fostered her interest in civic governance and public service.

Political career

Savage's political career began with her election to the Oklahoma House of Representatives in 1984, where she represented parts of Tulsa County. In the Oklahoma Legislature, she served on key committees including Appropriations and focused on issues related to education and health care. She later served as the Oklahoma Secretary of State under Governor David Walters, becoming the first woman to hold that cabinet position. Her work in Oklahoma City provided her with extensive experience in state-level administration and intergovernmental relations.

Mayor of Tulsa

Elected in 1992, Savage's administration prioritized economic revitalization and infrastructure. Key projects included the development of the Tulsa Convention Center, enhancements to Tulsa International Airport, and the launch of the Vision 2025 planning process. She worked closely with the Tulsa Metro Chamber and fostered partnerships with entities like the University of Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Department of Transportation. Her efforts in regionalism included strengthening ties with neighboring cities like Broken Arrow and advocating for improved funding through organizations like the Indian Nations Council of Governments.

Later career and civic involvement

After leaving the mayor's office in 2002, Savage continued extensive civic and corporate involvement. She served as the Senior Vice President of Community Development for the Saint Francis Health System in Tulsa. She has held leadership roles on numerous boards, including the Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, the Tulsa Community Foundation, and the Oklahoma Heritage Association. Her continued advocacy for health care and education was recognized with awards such as the Governor's Arts Award from the Oklahoma Arts Council.

Personal life

Savage is married to attorney John R. Barker. She remains an active member of the Tulsa community, involved with cultural institutions like the Philbrook Museum of Art and the Tulsa Opera. An alumna and supporter of the University of Tulsa, she has served on advisory boards for the Henry Kendall College of Arts and Sciences.

Category:1949 births Category:Mayors of Tulsa, Oklahoma Category:Oklahoma Democrats Category:University of Tulsa alumni Category:Living people