For Immediate Release: December 12, 2008

Sutton Announces Nichole Francis Reynolds as New Chief of Staff

WASHINGTON, DC - Congresswoman Betty Sutton (D-OH) today announced Nichole Francis Reynolds as her new Chief of Staff. Reynolds joins Congresswoman Sutton's office from the Committee on Homeland Security, where she served as Counsel, focusing on emergency preparedness, Gulf Coast rebuilding and hazard mitigation issues.

"Nichole has a long history of public service and she is extremely qualified for the position of Chief of Staff," said Congresswoman Sutton. "As a native of the city of Lorain, which is in my Congressional district, Nichole has an intimate understanding of the challenges and potential of Northeast Ohio. Her insight and leadership will be extremely valuable as we move into the 111th Congress and work to build opportunities for families in Ohio and across our Nation."

"I am honored to serve as Chief of Staff to Congresswoman Betty Sutton," Reynolds said."The opportunity to serve the hardworking people of the 13th District of Ohio has been a lifelong goal. As a native of Lorain, I have a clear understanding of the needs of the District.Working with the incoming Obama Administration, Congresswoman Sutton will be in an even stronger position to continue her fight to increase opportunities for our District and implement policies that will work with and for the people we are so honored to serve. I am excited about joining Congresswoman Sutton in her mission to advance economic development and opportunity for our constituents and communities, make health care accessible and more affordable, and ensure that our veterans are receiving the services that they need and deserve.

Prior to her experience on the Committee on Homeland Security, Reynolds served as District Director for former Representative Harold Ford Jr. (D-TN), worked on several National campaigns and has experience working in the private sector. She holds a B.A. from Eastern Michigan University in Political Science and Spanish and a J.D. from The Ohio State University College of Law.

Reynolds is replacing Adri Jayaratne, who is moving on to other opportunities.

Contact: Erin Donar at 202-225-3401 or Erin.Donar@mail.house.gov