Ella was born and raised in Lexington, Kentucky and comes to Georgetown with an interest in client-based civil advocacy. Ella attended Tulane University, where she graduated summa cum laude with a degree in English and History, along with a minor in Political Science. Her academic focus was on the history and culture of the American South and Appalachia.

While in college, Ella interned for the Chicago Crime Commission, the Peace Corps, New Orleans Junior Journalism Program, and the Orleans Public Defenders Office. These experiences, along with a family background of community work and activism spurred her interest in public service. Her work in the Orleans Public Defenders Office inspired her later involvement in New Orleans judicial elections.

Ella stayed in New Orleans after college. She began her career by managing the winning campaign of the most progressive member of the Louisiana Legislature, Mandie Landry (District 91), a Georgetown Law graduate. She went on to manage city-wide Criminal District Court and First City Court campaigns. She also helped form a consulting and management group to fundraise and advertise for another Criminal District Court candidate. She was involved in progressive Louisiana political activism in many other capacities as a volunteer, fundraiser, and advisor.

At Georgetown Law, Ella will focus on civil litigation and advocacy. Her career goals are tied to her family’s roots in Eastern Kentucky and Southern Pennsylvania. She hopes to return to her home state and aid in the fight for both the land and people of Appalachian mining communities.