LENELL ELLIS
Torrance
Summary
Empathetic, mission-driven professional with a BA in Sociology and a strong track record of advancing community health, equity, and engagement. Adept at identifying social needs, leading outreach efforts, and implementing evidence-based strategies that promote well-being in underserved populations. Brings a unique blend of research acumen, stakeholder coordination, and grassroots advocacy—driven by a deep commitment to improving systems and lives through collaboration, data, and compassion.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Community Research & Engagement Fellow
Cal State University San Diego – STAR Program
10.2022 - 11.2023
- Partnered with local coalitions to reduce tobacco use in historically underserved communities through targeted research and advocacy.
- Developed and led surveys to assess health behaviors and barriers, informing public health interventions and policy efforts.
- Participated in the launch of 3 research projects addressing social determinants of health and access to wellness resources.
- Led education campaigns and community events, increasing awareness of cessation services and reducing stigma around addiction.
- Championed anti-tobacco policy change benefiting vulnerable populations, building alliances across academic, public health, and community partners.
Client Support Specialist (Remote)
06.2016 - 10.2022
- Managed a high volume of inbound support inquiries, ensuring responsive and compassionate service for a diverse client base.
- Improved satisfaction ratings by 50% through streamlined communications and proactive issue resolution.
- Spearheaded efficiency improvements that reduced processing times and increased client retention.
- Collaborated across departments to enhance service offerings and ensure equitable support for all customers.
- Provided resource navigation support, document coordination, and outreach that mirrored the interpersonal care central to social work.
Regional Outreach & Engagement Manager
Compass Group/Canteen
06.2013 - 06.2016
- Built and sustained 27+ community partnerships, expanding outreach services into two new regions and increasing accessibility.
- Regularly exceeded outreach targets by over 20% through consistent engagement with schools, nonprofits, and local organizations.
- Designed and executed stakeholder retention plans, improving long-term participation in regional programs by 10%.
- Served as a trusted liaison between clients and service teams, advocating for tailored solutions that aligned with community needs.
- Produced reports and impact briefs used to inform strategic growth and public service delivery enhancements.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
California State University, Dominguez Hills
Associate Degrees - Liberal Arts & Sciences: Health and Fitness, Social & Behavioral Sciences, Arts & Humanities
Los Angeles Harbor College
Skills
- Community Engagement & Advocacy
- Needs Assessment & Program Design
- Qualitative & Quantitative Research
- Social Equity & Inclusion
- Stakeholder & Partner Relations
- Public Health Education
- Strategic Planning for Social Impact
- Outreach Campaigns & Coalition Building
- Data Collection & Impact Analysis
- Policy Awareness & Health Promotion
ADDITIONAL EXPERIENCE
- Business Development Manager
- Office Depot Business Services Division
- 10 Years
- Cultivated long-term customer relationships and managed major accounts with a strong focus on listening, responsiveness, and ethical engagement—skills readily transferrable to human services work.
Timeline
Community Research & Engagement Fellow
Cal State University San Diego – STAR Program
10.2022 - 11.2023
Client Support Specialist (Remote)
06.2016 - 10.2022
Regional Outreach & Engagement Manager
Compass Group/Canteen
06.2013 - 06.2016
Associate Degrees - Liberal Arts & Sciences: Health and Fitness, Social & Behavioral Sciences, Arts & Humanities
Los Angeles Harbor College
Bachelor of Arts - Sociology
California State University, Dominguez Hills
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