Dr. Robin Ellis

Vice President of Programs

Dr. Robin Ellis serves as Vice President of Programs at Trellis Foundation, where she leads the Foundation’s grantmaking strategy to advance postsecondary attainment and equitable outcomes for students across Texas. She works closely with the President and the Foundation team to shape program priorities, guide strategic investments, and support partnerships that strengthen policy, practice, and systems across the higher education ecosystem. Robin brings more than 20 years of experience in higher education and philanthropy. She previously held leadership roles at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, where she led national initiatives that helped institutions redesign systems and implement evidence-based strategies to improve student success at scale. Her work focuses on translating research and data into practical approaches that improve outcomes, particularly for underserved students. She holds a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership and Policy.