Chad Ellis ’20

Class of 2020
Master of Science in Business Analytics
Associate Director of Technology Solutions, Humana

Chad Ellis’ roots grow deep into the heart of Louisville.

Completing the University of Louisville’s Master of Science in Business Analytics (MSBA) program opened the doors for an outstanding career and subsequently provided a path for Ellis ’20 to help other Louisvillians reach their full potential, particularly in the technology field.

Growing up with learning disabilities, Ellis attended local schools Meredith Dunn and Trinity High School, where he received additional educational support. Upon graduation, he attended Indiana Wesleyan University to obtain his bachelor’s degree as he was hesitant about whether he’d find a fit at a large university, like his dream school – UofL.

Shortly after finishing his undergraduate program, he returned to Louisville and got a job at one of the city’s top employers, Humana, Inc.

“The Louisville community has always been a home for me and my family,” he said. “I’ve been raised here since birth and rarely moved far, or for long, like a magnet, it pulls me back.”

While at Humana, Ellis set goals to further his education and gain knowledge and experience on multiple computer programming platforms. He learned about Humana’s tuition reimbursement program with UofL and saw the chance to finally become a Cardinal.

“Working in analytics, I wanted to take my career to the next level,” he said. “I wanted cutting-edge programming, and with UofL’s investments in key programs and offerings, the MSBA program was paramount to my success.”

The MSBA program specializes in system technologies, data modeling and analytics with business acumen. The program closely collaborates with local businesses to provide a strong marketplace upon graduation.

“The University of Louisville’s MSBA program provided me with the tools to be successful and the confidence to strive for more,”  he said.

Ellis wants to instill that same confidence in the local community and he set out to share his STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education with others. Through a mentoring program with Waggener High School, Ellis plays a pivotal role in career counseling in the technology arena and assists with resume building. Ellis takes great pride in his involvement with local schools as a member of inclusion and diversity committees, while also teaching coding classes to students throughout the school system.

“I want to share the Louisville I know, the diverse, cultured (Louisville), that is full of talent looking for opportunity,” he said. “I want to help provide service like the city has provided my family.”

Ellis also is involved with The Cabbage Patch Settlement House. Located near UofL’s campus, the nonprofit organization leads, develops and educates at-risk youth. Ellis serves on its Board of Directors and helps develop strategy, fundraising and programs to support the children.

Growing up here, Ellis knows how important UofL is to the city. The MSBA program and UofL’s partnership with Humana allowed Ellis to gain the knowledge and skills  to ascend in his career but to also spread his love of technology, in all its platforms, to younger generations.

“I enjoy working with nonprofit organizations and take so many opportunities to mentor,” he said. “I believe it is our responsibility to help the next person up.”