Janell Watkins

Born and raised in the southern Louisiana bayou, Janell enjoys all things crawfish, Mardi Gras, and country music. Janell graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University with a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a minor in sociology. Previously, Janell worked in various roles, including as a telecommunications deputy for her local sheriff's office, as a direct care staffer for victims of human trafficking, and as a founding member of her college’s pre-law association, where she competed in moot court tournaments. In 2017, Janell moved to Northern Virginia to work on the development team at the Institute for Justice, where she spent several years managing donor and prospect programs. In her role at FIRE, she is excited to keep supporters updated on — and engaged with — our expanded mission, and to help welcome new supporters to the fold. Janell resides in Northern Virginia with her husband and two step-cats.