Ellen has always been passionate about climate change and sustainability issues but has found her niche in parks. Her love of the environment originated with her upbringing in Lakewood, Colorado, which then drove her to pursue a degree in Environmental Science from Goshen College in Goshen, IN (2017). She moved to Pittsburgh, starting as a PULSE fellow at the Environmental Charter School working on their middle school construction project. She then moved to work with Green Building Alliance, first with the Green and Healthy Schools Academy (2018-2021) and then the Erie 2030 District (2020-2021). Through these roles, she developed a passion for green buildings and was connected to an amazing network of passionate building professionals, educators, and youth.

Ellen originally joined the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy as a Naturalist Educator (2021-2025), organizing middle and high school outdoor programs, as well as tours and professional development opportunities for educators on the sustainability features of the Frick Environmental Center. She’s now a Project Manager with the Community Projects and Engagement team, combining her passion for green buildings and improving park spaces for all.

She serves as Vice President for Reimagined Recycling’s board, a localized plastic recycling nonprofit, and as Vice President for Communitopia, a youth climate education organization. Outside of her professional life, Ellen loves being outdoors–whether that’s hiking, camping, or biking! She enjoys finding new restaurants, creating things out of reclaimed material, and making friends with strangers.