Ellie moved to the Valley in the mid-70's to attend Arizona State University, where she served as vice president of student government and graduated cum laude with a degree in Communications. 

Ellie's college education in Arizona came full circle when she helped establish the Hugh Downs School of Human Communication at Arizona State University. In addition, Ellie was inducted into the ASU College of Public Programs Hall of Fame.

Ellie immersed herself in public relations and community service at the Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and then Westcor Partners for over 8 years.

Ellie and husband, Michael, formed a mighty team that changed the course of the Valley's arts, college athletics, disadvantaged youth, education and health care.

Ellie's joy for college football ultimately landed her on a national stage, at the epicenter of a sport she had loved since childhood. Her role in 2006-2007 as the first Chair to lead three post-season bowl games over a span of 11 days was the culmination of 20 years of volunteer work for the Fiesta Bowl family. Today, those efforts are extolled in the Ellie & Michael Ziegler Fiesta Bowl Museum in Scottsdale.

She also devoted 11 years to arts initiatives in Scottsdale, resulting in the formation of the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art.  She was honored as Scottsdale Cultural Council Philanthropist of the Year. In 2014, Valley Leadership went on to aptly name Ellie Ziegler 'Woman of the Year'. 

She is preceded in death by her mother Maddie Levitt, father Edward Glazer and mother-in-law Florence Ziegler.

She is survived by her husband Michael, three siblings, as well as her vast extended family, friends and colleagues.

Services were held privately with the family. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Ellie's honor at www.bgcs.org/brighterfuture . Please mention that the gift is being made on Ellie's behalf in the comment box. Donations may also be mailed to Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Scottsdale, 10533 E. Lakeview Drive, Scottsdale, AZ 85258. Memorial contributions in honor of Ellie can also be directed to the Gregory & Suzie Glazer Burt Boys & Girls Club at Drake University (bgcci.org, 1421 Walker St., Des Moines, IA 50316).