Ellen joined the field of architecture to use design as a catalyst for social impact. Her inspirations stem from the intersection of culture, community, and interactive design, aiming to provide resilient contemporary solutions that foster equitable learning experiences.

She has collaborated with clients on an international scale, ranging from master planning a K-12 Campus in Singapore’s rainforest, creating a small Middle School overlooking the coast of western Mexico, to working with the local school districts, bridging global expertise with local environments. Her work is aimed at envisioning joyful learning typologies that empower students, teachers, and leaders alike to work together as catalysts for educational change. Ellen’s method of working transforms a collage of these influences into explorative and layered design landscapes where learners thrive.

Ellen is a native of North Carolina and is a licensed Architect in Michigan. She has researched and worked with award-winning firms in the USA, Ecuador, China, and Germany, and has been awarded as the Young Architect of Detroit ‘22 and the Young Architect of Michigan ‘23. She has taught at the University of Michigan and has been invited to facilitate workshops at nationally renowned conferences, including the Deeper Learning conference, A4le, and with the National Coalition of Girls’ Schools. Beyond her passion and pursuits in design, she enjoys adventure travel, culinary exploration, and outreach initiatives in her local Detroit community.