Elijah grew up in southwest Missouri. He attended Ozarks Technical Community College, and he was a member of the National Dean’s List and Phi Theta Kappa. After graduating from OTC with honors in 2002, Elijah received an academic scholarship to attend Missouri Western State University. He served as MWSU’s Student Body President, received two bachelor’s degrees, and was a member of the Honor’s Program. He graduated Cum Laude in 2005.

   After graduation, Elijah received an academic scholarship to attend the University of Missouri School of Law. At MU, he served as Editor in Chief of the Environmental Law Review, represented MU at the regional level in Mock Trial and Moot Court competitions, and graduated with honors. In 2008, he was awarded the Order of Barristers as one of the top 10 oral advocates in his graduating class.

  As an attorney, Elijah has represented clients in a range of actions. He has tried numerous Workers' Compensation cases to conclusion and has appeared and argued in Federal District Court and the Missouri Southern District Court of Appeals.

   Elijah lives in Springfield with his wife and son. He remains active in the local community as a member (and former President) of the Springfield Jaycees, the Sunrise Rotary and a volunteer with several local organizations.