Ellen Wartella

Ellen Wartella is a Professor in Human Development and Social Policy and holds a joint appointment in Communication and Psychology at Northwestern University's School of Education & Social Policy. Her research focuses on media effects on children and adolescents, childhood obesity, and food marketing. She earned a Postdoc in Developmental Psychology from the University of Kansas, a PhD in Mass Communication from the University of Minnesota, and a BA in Communication from the University of Pittsburgh.

Her work emphasizes translating research into actionable strategies for educational equity and policy. She contributes to the Center for Education Efficacy, Excellence, and Equity (E4), which partners with schools and technology firms to improve K-12 education. Key areas include digital health campaigns, mental health stigma reduction, and STEM representation in media. Wartella’s research bridges developmental psychology with societal challenges, offering insights into technology’s role in learning and health.