Dan Innis

Daniel E. Innis is an American politician and academic currently serving as a Republican member of the New Hampshire State Senate, representing District 7. Born on April 7, 1963, Innis has a diverse background that encompasses both educational leadership and political engagement. He has previously held a Senate seat in District 24 and has been involved in various academic and professional roles throughout his career.

Early life and career

Innis's academic journey began with a focus on marketing and hospitality management, fields in which he has developed a significant expertise. He has held various academic positions, including serving as a professor at the University of New Hampshire. His career at this institution also included a notable tenure as the Dean of the Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics from 2007 to 2013. During his time as dean, he oversaw several important developments within the college, contributing to its growth and reputation.

Before his role at the University of New Hampshire, Innis served as the dean of the College of Business, Public Policy, and Health at the University of Maine in Orono. His academic career also includes a position at Ohio University, where he was the Associate Dean of the College of Business, Chair of the Marketing Department, and a professor in the Marketing Department. These experiences have provided him with a strong foundation in both education and administration, which he has applied to his subsequent political career.

Innis's involvement in politics began to take shape when he became the finance chairman of the New Hampshire Republican Party. This role allowed him to engage more deeply with the political landscape of the state and laid the groundwork for his future candidacies.

Legislative service

Innis's political career includes multiple attempts to secure a position in the U.S. Congress. He first ran for the United States House of Representatives in 2014, seeking the Republican nomination for New Hampshire's 1st congressional district. However, he lost the primary to former Congressman Frank Guinta, who subsequently won the general election.

In 2016, Innis announced his intention to run for Congress again in the same district. He was preparing to face Guinta and another candidate in the Republican primary when he decided to suspend his campaign in March 2016, citing personal and professional commitments. Shortly thereafter, he shifted his focus to the New Hampshire State Senate, announcing his candidacy for District 24. Innis won the Republican nomination in a competitive four-way primary and subsequently defeated Democratic State Representative Tom Sherman in the general election held on November 8, 2016.

Innis served in the New Hampshire Senate until 2018, when he faced Sherman again in a rematch for the same seat. This time, Innis was not successful in retaining his position.

In 2022, Innis made a strategic move by relocating to New Hampshire’s 7th State Senate District, where he successfully ran for election. He won the seat on November 8, defeating Democratic candidate Richard Lobban. His current term reflects a continued commitment to public service and engagement with the constituents of his district.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the New Hampshire State Senate, Innis has focused on various issues that resonate with his constituents and align with his party's platform. While specific policy initiatives and legislative accomplishments during his current term are not detailed, his background in business and education suggests a potential interest in economic development, education reform, and public policy related to business and hospitality management.

Innis represents District 7, which includes a diverse range of communities. This district encompasses several towns, each with its unique needs and concerns. As a senator, Innis is tasked with addressing these local issues while also contributing to broader state policies. His academic background may influence his approach to legislative matters, particularly in areas related to education and economic policy.

In addition to his legislative responsibilities, Innis is actively involved in various professional and civic organizations. He is a member of several academic and marketing associations, including Beta Gamma Sigma, the American Marketing Association, and the Academy of Marketing Science. His engagement with these organizations reflects his commitment to professional development and networking within his fields of expertise.

Innis is also a national board member of the Log Cabin Republicans, an organization that advocates for LGBTQ+ rights within the Republican Party. His involvement in this group indicates a dedication to inclusivity and representation within the political sphere. Furthermore, he is a member of local organizations such as the New Castle Historical Society and the Rye New Hampshire Republicans, demonstrating his commitment to community engagement and local governance.

On a personal note, Innis is married to Spencer Wyand, and they have three children, all of whom are students or alumni of the University of New Hampshire. This connection to the university not only highlights his commitment to education but also reflects his ongoing ties to the academic community.

Innis's political journey, marked by his academic expertise and community involvement, positions him as a significant figure in New Hampshire's legislative landscape. His current role in the State Senate allows him to continue influencing policy and representing the interests of his constituents in District 7. As he prepares for future electoral challenges, including a potential candidacy for the United States Senate in 2026, Innis remains a notable presence in both the political and academic realms of New Hampshire.