Ellen Harrington
Ellen Harrington is the Assistant Vice President of National Sales, Conferences, and Associations at Van Wagner College, where she plays a key leadership role within the executive team overseeing national sales initiatives and strategic partnerships across more than 60 collegiate multimedia rights partnerships nationwide. Based in the Charleston, South Carolina metropolitan area, Ellen manages and activates high-impact conference and association relationships while also driving national revenue opportunities that support sustainable growth, enhanced fan engagement, and long-term partner value for collegiate athletics programs across the country.
With more than nine years at Van Wagner, Ellen has progressed from General Manager of Collegiate Services to Assistant Vice President, building a career rooted in sports marketing, corporate partnerships, and event-driven revenue strategy. Her professional journey began with hands-on experience in hospitality, event management, and championship sports operations, including roles with the PGA of America, Ryder Cup, and Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, where she managed over $1.9 million in wedding and hospitality sales. Known for her consultative sales approach, operational excellence, and ability to cultivate lasting relationships, Ellen brings a rare blend of strategic vision, execution, and people-first leadership to every role she holds.
Ellen is a graduate of the University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business, where she earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing. Deeply influenced by her upbringing in a small, close-knit community and the strong work ethic instilled by her parents, she attributes her success to integrity, perseverance, and mentorship. A passionate advocate for women in the sports industry, Ellen is proud to lead in a traditionally male-dominated field and is committed to helping others grow by encouraging them to seize opportunities, lead with authenticity, and strive to be better every day—professionally and personally.
• Talent Focused Management Certified
• The University of Georgia - B.B.A.
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to making a conscious decision to prioritize myself and my goals—something I had not done earlier in my career. Placing that focus first gave me clarity, confidence, and the drive to pursue opportunities with intention and purpose.
At the core of my foundation are my parents, both of whom are exceptionally strong and hardworking. Their work ethic, resilience, and values shaped my perspective from an early age and instilled in me a deep respect for perseverance and personal responsibility.
I was raised in a close-knit family in a very small town, where community, integrity, and commitment mattered. That upbringing grounded me, reinforced the importance of relationships and humility, and continues to influence how I lead, work, and define success today.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is to take every opportunity that comes your way—you never know where it might lead. Early in my career, I could not have imagined that accepting a role working in golf in 2012 would ultimately shape the path I am on today. Each experience builds skills, perspective, and connections that often reveal their value much later.
This is a male-dominated industry, and being a woman in this space is not always easy. However, consistent hard work, integrity, and a commitment to excellence speak louder than any obstacle. Show up prepared, do your best, and carry yourself with confidence and professionalism in every role you take on.
Focus on being just 1% better each day than you were the day before. That steady growth compounds over time. When you invest fully in your work, people notice. What you put into a role is exactly what you will get out of it—and if you continue to give your best every single day, recognition and opportunity will follow.
Locations
Van Wagner College
Mt. Pleasant, SC 29464