Dennis K. Hays (born June 1, 1953) is an American diplomat who formerly served as the United States Ambassador to Suriname. He was confirmed by the U.S. Senate and was appointed by President Bill Clinton on March 22, 1996. Hays received his bachelor's degree in American Studies from the University of Florida, and his master's degree in Public Administration from Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government. Hays was a recipient of a Christian Herter Award for his work as Cuba Coordinator. He also received the State Department's Superior Honor Award four times.