Growing up in sunny California, Ella Parlor ’11 always dreamed big. From a young age, she turned ideas into action, starting her own small business and discovering the power of connection. Now, as a consultant, writer and philanthropist, Ella is on a mission to improve the world—one connection at a time.
“Understanding that a little compassion can create a ripple effect of success has been a cornerstone of my career and business,” she shares.
Ella found a unique community at Chapman that encouraged her to explore her ideas and creativity. It provided her with more than an academic foundation; it instilled a deep commitment to kindness and service.
One cherished experience was her role as a founding member of Kappa Alpha Theta, where she volunteered as a court-appointed special advocate for children. This ignited a lifelong passion for advocating for children in the foster care system—a mission she still supports through fundraising and active advocacy.
“The seeds you plant in college can blossom into meaningful commitments later in life,” Ella says. “You never know what passions or relationships might become lifelong.”
Initially a pre-med student, Ella pivoted to a career in marketing, landing an internship that would lead her to drive growth for top brands like Diageo, Red Bull, Pernod Ricard and Anheuser-Busch.
As the author of “High Tolerance”, a best-selling book, Ella attributes her values and sense of purpose to her Chapman Experience. She has stayed connected to Chapman, both as a mentor through the Panther Network and as a guest lecturer. She also supports Chapman’s Giving Day and Phonathon, remembering the scholarship support that made her education possible.
“My academic scholarships gave me a sense of responsibility that continues to drive my success,” Ella explains. “Now, it’s my turn to pay it forward.”
Ella is passionate about empowering the next generation of Chapman students. By supporting the Chapman Fund, she hopes to provide future leaders with the tools they need to reach their potential and create lasting impact.
“When our students thrive and our alumni succeed, we all win,” she says. “Together, we can ensure Chapman’s legacy of inspiration continues for generations to come.”
If you want to help shape the future of Chapman, like Ella, consider a gift to the Chapman Fund today.
