For Immediate Release: 
July 24, 2024

[email protected] 

Congresswoman Waters Announces James-Ellis McGinnis as New Chief of Staff

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43) is pleased to announce the appointment of J. Ellis McGinnis as her new Chief of Staff. With over 20 years of experience driving innovation, building value, and delivering impactful solutions for public-private partnerships and the private sector, McGinnis brings his diverse and proven experience and expertise as a highly skilled technician adept at managing high-stakes engagements.

With pivotal outcomes in developing and managing high-value engagement strategies and fostering sustainable partnerships, McGinnis brings equilibrium that will be instrumental in addressing constituent needs and issues at the federal level. He has worked closely with NGOs to design and manage programs for direct impact, launched corporate social responsibility initiatives with Fortune 100 and 500 companies, and has a compelling passion and effective energy for combating social injustice. He is recognized as a growth-focused functional leader who leverages insights and acumen to drive synergy, effectiveness, and transformation.

A Jamaican-American and Southern California native, McGinnis demonstrated skill and aptitude at an early age and, at 9, began studying Computer Information Systems at Biola University. At 11, he pursued Paralegal Studies at Riverside College and marketing at California State University San Bernardino when he was 15. Through ILLKEYZ, a brand he established as a teenager, Ellis launched cultural arts initiatives, brokered IP rights and high-volume impacts in 27 countries.

As an adjunct faculty member, McGinnis has presented lectures and developed enrichment programs at institutions including Biola University, California State University San Bernardino, Riverside Community College, The Bridge Academy (United Kingdom), Universitat de Barcelona (Spain), and Tech Musician’s Institute (United Kingdom).
In his new role of chief of staff, Ellis will oversee the day-to-day operations of Congresswoman Waters’ office. “As a Transitional Aged Youth (T.A.Y.) who experienced cycles of homelessness and broken systems in this country, it is an esteemed honor to serve a champion like Congresswoman Maxine Waters”, Ellis said. “She is a stateswoman whose work on the local and national level is felt around the world. I look forward to supporting her as she continues to fight inequalities.”

With a renewed focus on his home state of California Ellis designed and advanced capacity building, communications and development strategies with institutions including Los Angeles Mission, Downtown Los Angeles Neighborhood Council, and LA Pride. Before coming to Washington, McGinnis launched a digital equity program with AT&T which provides a stipend and workforce pipeline for T.A.Y. impacted by the foster care system.

“Ellis brings a wealth of experience, innovative thinking, and a deep commitment to social justice that will be invaluable as we address the needs of our constituents and tackle pressing issues at the federal level”, said Congresswoman Maxine Waters. “I am confident that with his leadership, we will continue to make significant strides in our fight for equality and justice.”

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