Susan Bell

Ms. Susan Bell is the President of McKinley Research Group, LLC, formerly known as McDowell Group. Susan leads a staff of 20 multi-disciplinary professionals offering a broad range of professional services including economic and socio-economic analysis, survey research, market research and feasibility studies, health care research and analysis, and program and organizational evaluations. Over the past 50 years, the firm has established itself as Alaska’s most experienced full-service research and consulting firm. They have conducted approximately 2,000 studies for over 400 public and private-sector clients in areas including transportation, natural resources, seafood and fisheries, health and social services, education, tourism, and Alaska Native interests.

Susan’s background includes serving as State of Alaska Commissioner of the Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development. In this role, she led efforts to market Alaska domestically and internationally, develop Alaska’s renewable and traditional energy resources, and enhance the business climate. Susan also served as a Vice President for Goldbelt where she was responsible for many of the Alaska Native Corporation’s business ventures. She has extensive experience in Alaska’s visitor industry including destination marketing, business management, and market research. Recent volunteer service includes UAA Leadership Fellows Program Mentor, Path to Prosperity Business Competition Judge, and Big Brothers Big Sisters.