40 Under 40 Class of 2018

Ellen Moorhouse

Realtor, NRG Real Estate Services Inc.; Age 28; Education: BA, UMass Amherst; Elms College

Ellen Moorhouse

Ellen Moorhouse

Born and raised in Springfield, Moorhouse believes in the power of community, compassion, and leadership. As a licensed Realtor, she connects people to their dreams of home ownership. Most recently, as program officer for the Women’s Fund of Western Massachusetts, she managed communications and adult leadership programming known as LIPPI, a non-partisan initiative providing women with the tools to become the region’s community leaders and elected officials. A graduate of UMass Amherst, she is currently pursuing an MBA with Elms College.

How do you define success? There are no secrets to success — it is the combined result of preparation, hard work, and continually learning from failure. Helen Keller said that character cannot be developed in ease and quiet; only through experiencing difficulties can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved. I define success as holding true to your values, integrity, and humor — every day is a new opportunity to grow and chase your dreams.

What do you like most about Western Massachusetts? The people and the places! I love the curiosity and compassion of the people in our communities. As an avid camper and gardener, I treasure the beautiful foliage, swimming holes, hiking, and natural beauty that our region has to offer.

Who has been your best mentor, and why? I’ve been very lucky to have many mentors play important roles in my life — and often just when I needed them most. They have patiently given me the tools, support, and guidance needed to grow both personally and as a young professional. If I could be half the woman my mother is, then there is nothing to fear! The mediocre teacher tells. The good teacher explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher inspires others.

What are you passionate about? I am passionate about building up the voices of my community. Leadership is not about individual glory; it is working collaboratively, learning from peers and mentors, and laying groundwork for others’ success, then standing back and watching them shine. Paying it forward is the only we can build a community of collaboration.

What fictional character do you relate to most, and why? Leslie Knope of Parks and Recreation is funny and authentic, caring and committed. I, too, love breakfast foods and am passionate about civic engagement.


Photography by Leah Martin Photography