Ellen Gilchrist is the CEO of BasBlue and a dedicated leader with a lifelong commitment to empowering communities through education and transformative initiatives.

Known for her visionary leadership, Ellen has driven initiatives that expand educational access, support at-risk youth, and foster community resilience. With her extensive experience in program development and strategic partnerships, she has shaped transformative programs reaching thousands of students and community members.

As senior director of education and community initiatives at United Way for Southeastern Michigan, Ellen led impactful programs for thousands of students, including the $47 million Summer Discovery initiative, which provided summer programming to over 100 schools and 22,000 students. She also tackled generational literacy challenges, distributing over 40,000 books to students in Wayne and Oakland counties. And as Executive Director of Social Studies and Accelerated Programs for Detroit Public Schools Community District, Ellen managed a $14 million budget, advancing programs focused on student success and reducing educational inequities.

Passionate about advancing opportunities for all, Ellen’s work embodies her dedication to creating inclusive pathways for learning and growth. She believes in fostering supportive networks, empowering individuals to achieve their fullest potential, and advocating for sustainable change in communities. Her collaborative spirit and commitment to meaningful change have guided her work across numerous education and social impact roles, making her a powerful advocate for equity and opportunity.