ely ross
Former Chief Operating Officer, District of Columbia Public Schools | Washington, D.C.
For Ely Ross, his Marine career began as an “Ugly Angel” and lessons he learned during his military service eventually led to high-profile roles within the District of Columbia’s government. A third-generation veteran, Ely served for nine years in the United States Marine Corps, attaining the rank of staff sergeant. As an aviation crew chief with Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 362, also known as the Ugly Angels, he was stationed at Marine Corps Base Hawaii and deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His exemplary service earned him numerous commendations, including an Air Medal, a Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, a Navy Meritorious Unit Commendation, and a Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal. His Corps experience instilled in him a mission-driven mindset, a commitment to accountability, and a passion for team leadership, qualities that have defined his careers in law, government, and education.
Following the conclusion of his military service in 2008, Ross pursued higher education with the same determination that defined his time in the Marines. He earned a master’s degree from Hawaii Pacific University and a Juris Doctorate from Penn State University School of Law in 2011. His legal and leadership expertise led him to serve in key roles across multiple public institutions.
As director of the Mayor’s Office of Veterans Affairs in Washington, D.C., Ross championed initiatives to improve access to healthcare, employment, and support services for the city’s 30,000 veterans. His leadership in veteran advocacy earned national recognition, including the Lincoln Award for Excellence in Operations for Minority Veteran and Community Engagement Programs.
Transitioning into broader civic leadership, Ross served as chief of staff at the D.C. Department of Parks and Recreation, where he managed the agency’s $60 million budget, led workforce restructuring efforts, and played a key role in Washington, D.C. being named the #1 Urban Park System in the country in 2019 and 2021.
Most recently, Ross served as chief operating officer for the District of Columbia Public Schools, overseeing a $1.1 billion agency that serves 50,000 students and employs 10,000 staff across 117 schools. He led critical initiatives, including the creation of the district’s Emergency Management Division; introduced operational transparency; and managed the modernization of school facilities. Throughout his tenure, he emphasized mission-driven leadership, team empowerment, and strategic problem-solving, skills he attributes to his Marine Corps training.
Ross continues to exemplify the values of honor, courage, and commitment, dedicating his career to public service, operational excellence, and community impact. He serves as the liaison for the District of Columbia to the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation’s Governors Council, a 50-state initiative connecting Marines with their National Museum and Heritage Center near the nation’s capital. His leadership philosophy, rooted in his military experience, emphasizes his belief in empowering teams, driving positive change, and always working toward mission success.