Katie Ellis

With a career spanning higher education, Fortune 500 companies and startups, Katie Ellis brings a thoughtful, data-informed perspective to her work at Purdue University. As senior director of marketing strategy at Purdue Brand Studio, she helps shape brand strategy and leads initiatives that strengthen the university’s reputation and expand its reach. 

A Purdue alumna, Katie earned her Bachelor of Arts in public relations and entrepreneurship before completing her MBA at the Daniels School of Business. Her career has been defined by a strong strategic lens, with a focus on audience growth, brand development and campaigns that deliver measurable impact. She is particularly passionate about identifying opportunities for Purdue to show up in cultural moments through storytelling, partnerships and creative activations that feel both timely and authentic. 

Katie believes that the best strategies start with listening. Guided by market research and audience analysis, she values asking the right questions, fostering collaboration and translating insight into action that drives results. 

Outside of work, Katie serves on the board of her local library foundation, where she supports efforts to keep libraries thriving as spaces for connection, learning and discovery. She also enjoys spending time there with her two daughters, staying engaged with current events and connecting with her community.