As Public Relations Director, Ellen leverages seven years of experience in public relations and public affairs. Most recently, Ellen served as director of marketing and public relations for Washington, D.C. based digital technology start-up Riptopia. At Riptopia, Ellen created and managed a marketing and public relations shop that focused on brand awareness by producing an extensive library of media coverage and marketing materials. Additionally, Ellen was instrumental in the company's development of an e-commerce Web site and implemented revolutionary strategies to utilize the power of the Internet to reach and engage new audiences.

Prior to her role at Riptopia, Ellen launched the national public/private partnership between The United States Conference of Mayors and DuPont. As managing director of the partnership, she teamed up with mayors to launch initiatives in science education, lead-safety and homeland security. At the end of her three years in this role, Ellen had successfully brought these initiatives to over 600 city halls nationwide and had administered over $2.25 million in lead-safety grants. While in D.C., Ellen also spent time on Capitol Hill assisting U.S. Senators in their press efforts, including supporting Senator Edward M. Kennedy during the 2004 Democratic National Convention. In her role at blast! PR, Ellen applies her passion to facilitate change through innovative ideas and action.