Ellen Oatis serves as the Program Associate for the Playful Learning Landscapes Action Network, where she champions playful learning initiatives that bring families and communities closer together. With a background as a literacy specialist and educator, Ellen is passionate about making education accessible to all children and recognizes the power of play in fostering meaningful connections.

Ellen earned her B.S. in Early and Middle Childhood Education from The Ohio State University. Her experience includes collaborating with the Columbus Metropolitan Library to enhance programs like Ready for Kindergarten and Play to Learn. Driven by her commitment to literacy, she created a cross-district pen-pal program that connected elementary school students from diverse backgrounds. Before joining the Playful Learning Landscapes team, Ellen shared her love of literacy with her students in the classroom.

Based in Columbus, Ohio, Ellen enjoys traveling, gardening, and cheering on her local MLS team, the Columbus Crew. She shares her home with her two cats, Winston and Willow, who add joy to her everyday life.