TRENTON, N.J.- AnnMarie McDonald, formerly manager of community affairs for Catholic Charities in Trenton and legislative aide to two members of the New Jersey Legislature, has joined the New Jersey Lawsuit Reform Alliance (NJLRA) as communications director, executive director Marcus Rayner announced today.

“We are excited that AnnMarie has decided to put her communications, public affairs and policy expertise to work on behalf of the New Jersey residents, businesses and organizations that believe our state’s legal climate is in need of reform,” said Rayner. “AnnMarie’s leadership will help NJLRA aggressively pursue its growth-oriented policy agenda at a pivotal time for New Jersey.”

Prior to a stint at Catholic Charities, where she the managed the organization’s public relations, development, and government relations efforts, McDonald worked for Senator Shirley K. Turner and Assemblywoman Linda Greenstein.

“I am excited to join an organization that is putting the interests of New Jerseyans first. In these tough economic times, it’s imperative that our state remains an attractive place to do business,” said McDonald. “Excessive lawsuits mean fewer jobs and higher costs for everyone. I look forward to helping NJLRA raise awareness about civil justice reform issues that impact all New Jerseyans.”

McDonald holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from Drew University, where she graduated summa cum laude.