Ellie is a graduate of Xavier University where she played on their division I volleyball team as a middle blocker and right side hitter for 4 years. Ellie had an amazing career at Xavier. Her senior year, she ranked second on the team in total blocks and fourth in total kills. She was ranked 13th in the big east conference in hitting percentage. Before her playing career at Xavier, Ellie grew up in Kansas City where she played three years of varsity volleyball at Notre Dame De Sion. She also competed at the club level for 6 years and attended USA Nationals during each season.

Ellie graduated with a degree in health services administration s now working at MedPace in Cincinnati