Recognizing Shirley Ann Ellis

Floor Speech

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Ms. MOORE of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the extraordinary service of Shirley Ann Ellis. Shirley has worked as part of my staff for over 30 years, spending 12 of those years as my Chief of Staff in the Wisconsin State Senate. She has also served as my District Director and Senior Advisor for over 20 years throughout my time in the U.S. House of Representatives. It is with sadness, but also great pride, that I announce her retirement today, and it is an honor to recognize her incredible commitment to public service, our Nation, and the people of the Fourth Congressional District of Wisconsin.

Shirley's remarkable journey began in Waukegan, Illinois, when she was born to parents Ruby Snowden Ellis and Lepolis Ellis. She grew up in my district alongside her sister, Betty Ross, and attended Milwaukee Public Schools starting at the age of four. She graduated from Rufus King High School at just sixteen. Shirley continued her education at Gustavus Adolphus College, earning a bachelor's degree in zoology with a minor in chemistry. At 22 years old, she went on to earn a master's degree from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee in library science. After completing her education, Shirley worked for the State of Wisconsin for 25 years, 11 of those years she served as the State Long Term Care Ombudsman, where she oversaw investigations into complaints of mistreatment of elderly and disabled individuals in nursing homes and community-based residential facilities. As an unwavering advocate for the most vulnerable members of society, she worked tirelessly to ensure their voices were heard and their injustices were addressed. Her work in this field, combined with her education, laid the foundation for a career defined by exceptional leadership and advocacy in healthcare, justice, labor, and women's issues. Throughout her career, Shirley has been driven by a commitment to reform and progress, ensuring a more prosperous, equitable, and inclusive Nation for all.

In 1993, Shirley's journey in public service took a pivotal turn when she became my Chief of Staff during my tenure in the Wisconsin State Senate. Over the next 12 years, she played an essential role in advancing civil and women's rights, expanding welfare, investing in education, and reforming the criminal justice system. Her leadership during this time was invaluable, and she became an indispensable part of my team.

With my election to this chamber in 2004, Shirley continued her work as my Senior Advisor and District Director. Simply put, without her extraordinary management and leadership, I would not be standing where I am today. The legislation and policies that have transformed the lives of my constituents and this country would not have come to fruition without Shirley's dedication and service. As District Director for the Fourth Congressional District of Wisconsin, she ensured that every community, group, and individual had their concerns heard, uplifted, and addressed. She continues to serve as a bright example of how governance can transform lives and inspire progress.

At the heart of Shirley's service was her deep love for community and family. She was married to Gabriel Lee Shaw, Jr., for 42 years. Known to me as my brother-in-love, Gabe was Shirley's steadfast foundation and source of strength. Even beyond his passing in December of 2023, he remains a guiding light and inspiration for her advocacy. Those of us who know Shirley recognize that her compassion, trust, integrity, intelligence, and loyalty have been shaped by a love that transcends time.

Shirley's dedication to public service is unparalleled. She has spent her career advocating for the most vulnerable people in our country, giving a voice to those who would otherwise remain unheard in this chamber. There was never a moment when she wasn't deeply in tune with the needs of the people she served. The progress we have witnessed across my district, the City of Milwaukee, and our Nation is a testament to her tireless efforts. While the impact of her work cannot be measured in numbers, it is felt in the countless lives she has touched and transformed. We will continue to see her legacy in the future leaders of this country, many of whom regard her as a mentor, role model, and a shining example of what it means to lead with integrity, empathy, and empowerment. Shirley has received many praises for her vast knowledge of political and community networks. In 2020, she was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the DPMC and was selected as a Senior Advisor for the 2020 DNC Host Committee and by the Biden for President campaign as Strategic Advisor for the State of Wisconsin. This was a result of Shirley's unmatched management skills and experience in the political field.

Having worked alongside Shirley for 33 years, I will deeply miss her leadership and the way she brought my staff and constituents together. However, as her close friend, I am ecstatic to see what blessings this new chapter of life holds for her. Though she may no longer serve as my District Director, I know her spirit of service will remain unyielding. Shirley will continue to put others first, championing causes close to her heart and advocating for those around her. She has led her life with service first, and I am confident when I say that her graciousness, bravery, and compassion will never leave her spirit.

Mr. Speaker, for all these reasons, it is with tremendous pride that I recognize the remarkable service of Shirley Ann Ellis today. She has changed the lives of so many, including my own constituents. On behalf of the people of the Fourth Congressional District, the State of Wisconsin, and the United States, I thank Shirley Ann Ellis for her 45 years of stunning service, powerful leadership, and loyal dedication to the public good.

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