WASHINGTON — Huntsville native Ella Sullins has been promoted to chief of staff for U.S. Rep. Dale Strong, the congressman’s office announced.

Sullins has served as Strong’s legislative director since his election to Congress in 2022. Before that, she served in Sen. Richard Shelby’s office, working from intern to legislative assistant. Altogether, she has almost seven years of Capitol Hill experience.

A fifth-generation Huntsville native and graduate of Auburn University, Sullins succeeds Payne Griffin. Strong said Griffin will remain on staff as a senior advisor through the next month to assist with the transition.

“Ella’s career has been dedicated to the service of our great state,” said Strong (R-Monrovia). “She is one of us – not only does she understand our community, but she also cares deeply about the success of Alabama. This makes her the perfect choice to be my Chief of Staff, and I look forward to what we will achieve in the days ahead.

“I want to extend my deepest gratitude to Payne Griffin for his service to my office and many years working on behalf of the State of Alabama. I wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”