Staff

George Gillis, Chief of Staff

George (he/his) is a veteran of numerous Wisconsin political campaigns and legislative offices. George served as Chief of Staff for Majority Leader Thomas Nelson, Research Director for the Wisconsin Assembly Democrats, and Executive Director for the Democratic Party of Wisconsin. George is also an active community leader, having served on the executive board for Citizens for Dane County's Future and on the Dane County Board (Dist. 14).

*George's favorite cheese is the Pipit from Landmark Creamery and Hooks 20 year cheddar – obviously!

Emily Duernberger, Operations Director

Emily (she/her) is a coffee and cat lover originally from the Milwaukee area. Emily completed her Bachelor’s degree in English, Classical Humanities and Gender and Women’s Studies from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2022. After graduation, she accepted an internship in the office of State Senator Melissa Agard, later serving as her Operations Director and Communications Director. Emily lives on the East side of Madison with her cat, Cleopatra, and enjoys reading and watching TV shows.

*Emily's favorite cheese is muenster cheese from Carr Valley Cheese!

Carla Wolff, Constituent Services Director

Carla (she/her) is a recent graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where she studied Social Work. In her time as a student, she served as a district intern in a congressional office and as a social work intern for the Office of State Senator LaTonya Johnson. She also currently serves on the Wisconsin Women in Government Board. In her free time, she enjoys watching the Packers and listening to Taylor Swift! 

*Carla’s favorite cheeses are the Sartori BellaVitano Merlot Cheese and Sartori Rosemary & Olive Oil Asiago Cheese — best served on a charcuterie board!

Jalen Knuteson, Communications Director

Jalen (he/him) is an avid baseball fan and reader. Previously, Jalen worked for newspapers in Ellsworth and Fort Atkinson before transitioning into politics as a field organizer in 2020 and Campaign Manager in a 2022 State Senate campaign. Jalen lives on the East side with his partner Elena and rescue-pup August. 

*Jalen’s favorite cheese is the Port Salut-Style Belaire from Hoard’s Dairyman Farm Creamery.