Tonnisha Ellis

Workforce policy lead

Tonnisha is the Workforce Policy Lead at CPEX, leveraging her extensive experience in education and workforce policy to ensure that workforce development and workers’ needs are integrated into CPEX’s policy and planning work. Prior to joining CPEX, she excelled as the Senior Manager for Education and Workforce Policy Research at the Baton Rouge Area Chamber (BRAC) where she played a pivotal role leading comprehensive education and workforce initiatives, spanning from cradle to career, leaving an enduring impact on the community. Her notable achievements include pioneering a $1 million truancy pilot program across multiple school districts and leading the Talent Action Collaborative task force, aligning C-suite Executives and educational leaders to foster collaboration between education and workforce. Her work has also included successful legislative efforts and advising regional leaders on workforce policy. Tonnisha has been recognized nationally as one of the industry's top emerging leaders by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE). 

Originally from Colfax, La, Tonnisha earned both her Bachelor’s and Master of Science degrees from Southern University A&M College. In her spare time, Tonnisha volunteers with Junior Achievement, Junior League of Baton Rouge, and Girl Scouts of Louisiana. She also serves on the board of YMCA-DOW Westside, City Year, and IDEA Public Schools.

Expertise: Strategic Planning, Workforce and Education Policy, Relation and Coalition Building, Project Management, Legislative Process

Email: tellis@cpex.org