Meet the 2025-26 RIT Minett Professor: Krystle Ellis |
Meet the 2025-26 RIT Minett Professor: Krystle Ellis
Bring your questions and join us for an in-person chat with Krystle Ellis on Wednesday, November 12th from 1:00-2:00 in the MOSIAC Center. This event is facilitated by Janet Lomax, Journalist in Residence in the division of AES.
Walking the Quarter Mile in the middle of winter. Navigating the maze of underground tunnels on campus. Spending hours studying in Wallace Library cubbies. Hanging with friends in the Student Alumni Union. Krystle Ellis is familiar with it all.
The RIT alum (BS ’09 MS’15) is the new Frederick H. Minett Professor, selected by former Minetts and appointed to the position this summer by RIT President William Sanders and Vice President and Associate Provost for Access, Engagement, and Success Keith Jenkins. The program brings distinguished Rochester area professionals to the RIT community to share their professional knowledge and experience with RIT students, faculty and staff for one academic year.
Ellis is the Executive Director of the Women’s Foundation of Genesee Valley, the first woman of color to hold that position. She is also the owner of Ellis K Consulting, which provides businesses and organizations with everything from data analytics and strategic leadership planning to executive coaching in order to help them leverage their strengths.
She is a big believer in giving back to her community, whether it is serving on a board or giving a keynote address. She has received numerous accolades in recognition of her work and as a philanthropist, she is active with RIT’s Sentinel Society.
She says it is an honor to be named a Minett professor.
“As an alum, this recognition feels both deeply personal and profoundly meaningful. Tears actually filled my eyes when I learned of the appointment. In that moment, I looked back at where I started and all who have held my hand along the way. This is not a Krystle moment—it is an all-of-us moment.”
“I am sustained by the unwavering support of my husband, my three children, and my family. I live a life of gratitude because of every faculty and staff member who saw me as the future and helped refine what was already within me. This moment also defines the success of every Minett Professor who came before me. I stand on their shoulders, on their success, and on their impact. Their labor was not in vain. This honor reaffirms that choosing RIT was one of the best decisions of my life, and it reminds me that I am part of a legacy much larger than myself.”
Ellis says she has a global vision and plans to facilitate a variety of workshops, some on-site, others via Zoom to share her professional experience.
Ellis is looking forward to her year ahead and can’t wait to work with the RIT community.
“I believe that every human being is a gift—deserving to be seen, heard, and supported. That belief shapes everything I do, and it will guide how I show up in this role. My ultimate hope as a Minett Professor is to inspire students, faculty, and staff to not only excel in their fields but also to embrace the humanity in leadership. Because when we lead with honor, balance, and vision, we create cultures—and ultimately communities—that thrive. I am also excited to meet new students, faculty, and staff. I love to laugh, learn, and connect. I am approachable—and I may just give you the tightest hug you have ever gotten in your life, so be prepared right now!”