Michael Ringler Joins Pitt as Senior Director for Federal Relations

Michael Ringler has been hired as the senior director for federal relations within the University of Pittsburgh Office of Community and Governmental Relations. Ringler, a Pitt alumnus, recently concluded a long tenure as a majority clerk and staff director for the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations. He will begin his role at the University on March 16. 

“Mike brings a tremendous level of experience and knowledge to Pitt’s government affairs team in areas that are major strengths of the research efforts at Pitt. He has a demonstrated record of impact and ability to work effectively across party lines,” said Paul Supowitz, vice chancellor for community and governmental relations.

In addition to his role on the Committee on Appropriations, Ringler was responsible for leading the review, analysis, and production of the annual appropriations bill providing more than $50 billion for the Department of Commerce, the Department of Justice, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the National Science Foundation, and several related agencies. In his capacity as majority clerk and staff director, Ringler worked closely with members of the committee as well as the Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies. He also worked with top Executive Branch officials and senior U.S. House staff.

Commenting on the appointment, Chancellor Patrick Gallagher said, “Mike Ringler has been highly effective in his capacity on the Committee on Appropriations. I’m excited to welcome him in his role as senior director for federal relations, where he will strengthen the University of Pittsburgh’s voice in the national dialogue.” 

Ringler, who received a master’s degree in public and international affairs from Pitt’s Graduate School of Public and International Affairs in 1987, has worked in Washington, D.C., for more than 20 years. After beginning his career as a financial manager for the Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs division of the U.S. Information Agency, Ringler has held a staff appointment on the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Appropriations since 1997.

“I’m thrilled to be joining the University. The work and research being done here are aligned with national priorities, and we have a great opportunity to further elevate Pitt’s role on the national stage,” Ringler said. “I’m looking forward to being back in Pittsburgh and at Pitt.” He succeeds Jeanne Stoner, who retired from her position as assistant vice chancellor of federal government relations in late 2013. 

The University of Pittsburgh Office of Community and Governmental Relations is the primary institutional point of contact for the federal government for all University of Pittsburgh campuses.