The Russell Group announced today the hiring of Justina Graff and several staff promotions as part of the firm’s continued growth.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Justina to our family. She will be a tremendous asset to our team as we continue to focus on enhancing our level of government affairs service. Her experience serving the House Agriculture Committee will do just that,” firm Chief of Staff Allyson Alvaré said.

Justina comes to The Russell Group from the House Agriculture Committee, where she interned before serving as Deputy Clerk. Justina will serve in the critically important role of assisting in both researching and monitoring key legislative and regulatory policy issues.

Justina grew up on a sixth generation working farm and ranch near San Antonio, Texas, and attended Texas A&M University where she graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics.

Additionally, the firm announced two career advancements. Samantha Buchalter has been promoted to Director of Legislative & Regulatory Affairs after three years with the firm.

“Sam has proven herself as a skilled advocate with a knack for complex policy issues, and we are excited for her to expand her responsibilities,” said Karla Thieman.

Samantha has been responsible for managing the firm’s coalition activities as well as providing strategic advice and counsel to clients on a wide variety of policy issues, including climate and sustainability. As Director, she moves into an elevated role serving our clients, while also leading the firm’s legislative and regulatory affairs team.

Alex Noffsinger, who has been with the firm since 2019, has been promoted to Legislative Manager. In this new capacity, Alex will have an expanded role in advising clients and managing key legislative and regulatory policy issues.

“Alex has elevated our advocacy and consulting work through hard work and a keen eye for detail. He will excel in this new role making our firm even better,” stated Tyson Redpath.

Prior to joining the firm, Alex worked for the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture and interned for the Democratic Staff of the Senate Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry Committee.