Ellen Biddle, LCSW
Ellen Biddle, LCSW, is a licensed social worker with over 30 years of dedicated experience in program coordination, career development, and student parent support services. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Campbellsville University and completed her Master of Social Work at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work in just two years while working full-time. Throughout her career, Ellen focused on practical supports for students, partnering with state agencies and community colleges to help single parents pursue education, gain employment, and achieve self-sufficiency.
Ellen’s professional journey included leadership roles such as director of a nonprofit agency and program coordinator for a partnership between the Cabinet for Health and Family Services and the Kentucky Community and Technical College System. She placed students in work-study programs aligned with their career goals, coordinated pathways between two-year and four-year colleges, and advocated for families in need, including work with spouse abuse shelters. Her commitment to student success earned her recognition as a merit bonus employee, and she remains passionate about workforce development and career mentoring.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ellen is deeply committed to her community and family. She serves on the board of Ezekiel, an affordable housing nonprofit, and supports One Parent Scholar, an educational nonprofit for single parents. Faith, honesty, and integrity have guided her personal and professional life. Even after retiring from social work, she continues to engage with the community, currently working part-time at Bath and Body Works, where she was honored as Employee of the Month. Ellen values inspiring others, exploring opportunities, and helping individuals find their path to success.
• Licensed Certified Social Worker
• University of Kentucky – College of Social Work, Master of Social Work
• Campbellsville University, Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology
• Young Career Woman Award
• Merit Bonus Employee Award
• Employee of the Month, Bath and Body Works (August)
• Influential Women 2026
• Kentucky Career Development Association
• Influetial Women Network
• One Parent Scholar
• Ezekiel
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the support and inspiration of other women throughout my career, as well as persistence. I believe in continuing to try different roles and opportunities until I found the right fit, and in always showing up authentically for those I serve.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
An instructor suggested that I consider pursuing a social work degree. He arranged a meeting with the University of Kentucky College of Social Work, which ultimately led me to complete my MSW in just two years while working full-time, launching a career I truly loved.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I advise meeting people where they are, experimenting with different roles, and keeping an open mind until you find the right fit. Career inventories and volunteer experiences can also help identify your interests and guide you toward meaningful work.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Faith, particularly Christianity, along with truth, honesty, and striving to be a good person. These values guided my work in social services and continue to shape my personal life, including involvement with my church and family.