Assemblyman Roy Freiman, reelected in New Jersey’s 16th Legislative District in November, has named Montgomery Township Deputy Mayor Shelly L. Bell as his chief of staff.  

Ms. Bell most recently worked as Governor Phil Murphy’s Regional Political Director, and for the New Jersey Democratic State Committee (NJDSC) Forward 2021.  She previously worked as the District Manager for Assemblyman Craig A. Stanley of the 28th Legislative District.  

“Shelly is a wonderful addition to my team. She provides a depth of leadership experience as well as a unique personal perspective,” Assemblyman Freiman said. “Her tremendous desire to serve others and make positive changes in people’s lives will benefit the residents of the 16th Legislative District,” the Assemblyman said. 

“I have been blessed during my career working with and for some of the smartest and most committed public servants in the State of New Jersey,” Ms. Bell said. “That trend will continue as I begin my work as Chief of Staff to Assemblyman Freiman.” 

For the past two decades Ms. Bell has served in government, non-profit entities, and academia on problems ranging from lifelong learning to policymaking, racial and social justice, civic engagement, and empowerment.  

Her passion for the public service led her to seek elected office. In 2021 Shelly was elected to the Montgomery Township Committee. At the beginning of her second year, she was selected as Deputy Mayor by her colleagues. Shelly has served on the Montgomery Township Planning Board and as liaison to the Board of Health, Municipal Alliance, Youth Leadership Council, Recreation, Landmarks, and the Inclusion & Equity Committee. 

Ms. Bell has a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a master’s degree in Counseling from Pillar, is a Certified Counselor through the Rutgers School of Social Work, New Jersey Family Development, and is a distinguished Fellow of Princeton Seminary’s Black Theological Leadership Institute, Leadership Newark, Leadership Somerset, and Emerge New Jersey.  Ms. Bell is an ordained clergywoman and a religious leader who works at the intersection of faith and politics.