Kati Ellis and son, Carson.

The Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology is pleased to announce that Kati Ellis began her role as the graduate program assistant/recruiter in October 2017. Ellis supports the EEB Frontiers and traditional master’s programs with a focus on increasing diversity. She is responsible for all aspects of recruitment, admission, and student progress in the master's programs, and is a member of the department’s Diversity Committee.

“My goal is to be as transparent as possible,” Ellis said. “I want students to know that I understand the complexities of the modern day college experience. I plan to make myself available to provide support and advice when needed. I hope to learn as much as possible about the Rackham and departmental policies and procedures so that I can provide accurate and honest information to current and prospective students.”

Ellis works closely with Cindy Carl, EEB’s graduate program coordinator, who supports the graduate programs and is responsible for all aspects of recruitment, admission, and student progress in the Ph.D. program.

Previously, Ellis worked for the University of Michigan Health System’s Wheelchair Seating Service in customer service for four years. She graduated from U-M in 2013 with her bachelor’s degree in political science.

“I appreciate the warm and positive work environment,” she said. “The culture is one of the most important aspects of a department. From the start, I've been greeted with a warm smile and positive attitudes. It's a good feeling to be welcomed. I like that I'm a part of a group that is understanding, accepting and knowledge-seeking.”

Ellis is a native Detroiter whose biggest motivator is her five-year-old son, Carson. She appreciates her large and close family. If you haven’t yet had the pleasure of meeting our newest staff addition, stop by the EEB administrative offices to say hello.