kids encyclopedia robot

Affie Ellis facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Affie Ellis
Affie Ellis.jpg
Member of the Wyoming Senate
from the 8th district
In office
January 10, 2017 – January 6, 2025
Preceded by Floyd Esquibel
Succeeded by Jared Olsen
Personal details
Born 1979/1980
Jackson Hole, Wyoming, U.S.
Political party Republican
Spouse Dennis Ellis
Children 3
Alma mater University of Wyoming (BS)
University of Colorado Law School (JD)

Affie Ellis is an American politician. She was born around 1979 or 1980. She serves in the Wyoming Senate for the 8th district. She is a member of the Republican Party.

Affie Ellis is also a member of the Navajo Nation. She is the first Native American person to serve in the Wyoming Senate.

About Affie Ellis

Early Life and Education

Affie Burnside was born to Jim and Lenoa Burnside. Both of her parents were born on the Navajo Reservation. She later married Dennis Ellis. Together, they have three children.

Affie Ellis went to Jackson Hole High School. After high school, she attended the University of Wyoming. From 1996 to 2000, she studied political science and American Indian studies. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree. Later, from 2004 to 2007, she went to the University of Colorado Law School. There, she earned her law degree, called a Juris Doctor.

Her Career in Politics

Affie Ellis started her career helping politicians. From 2000 to 2004, she worked for Senator Craig L. Thomas. She helped him with issues related to Native American communities, public lands, and housing.

In 2004, she was chosen for an important role. She became the Director of Congressional and Public Affairs for the National Indian Gaming Commission. This group helps oversee gaming activities on Native American lands. Later, in 2010, she was appointed to the Tribal Law and Order Commission. This appointment was made by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell.

Serving in the Wyoming Senate

In 2016, Affie Ellis decided to run for office. She ran for a seat in the Wyoming Senate. She won the election for the 8th district. She defeated the person who held the seat before, Floyd Esquibel.

Her election was a historic moment for Wyoming. She became the first Native American person to serve in the Wyoming Senate. She is also the first member of the Navajo Nation to hold this position.

During her time in the Wyoming Senate, she has worked on important committees. She served on the Revenue committee, which deals with state money and taxes.

kids search engine
Affie Ellis Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.