Ellen is the Director for U.S. Ecosystems with the Global Entrepreneurship Network. Her primary responsibilities include supporting the entrepreneurial ecosystem around the U.S. and encouraging U.S. participation in Global Entrepreneurship Week. Previously, she served as an innovation and entrepreneurship specialist with the Urban Redevelopment Authority of Pittsburgh, focusing on inclusive innovation and small business development. She grew up in Alexandria, Virginia and studied at Rhodes College in Memphis before earning her Master of International Development from the University of Pittsburgh.