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Elle was raised in Marengo and attended Iowa State University, graduating with a communications degree. She is a born and raised farm girl, who managed 160-400 acre farms consisting of grain crops such as corn and soybeans in Marengo. Her family owns two Iowa wineries– Ackerman Winery in the Amana Colonies and Fireside Winery in Marengo. She resides in Marengo and is the proud parent of two daughters. 

Professionally, she spent almost two decades as an account executive with UPS. Elle also served as chairwoman of the company’s LGBTQ Business Resource Group where she grew from 30 to 130 members, making it the company’s largest group in the country outside its headquarters. In 2018, she was selected to be a member of the UPS Public Affairs ambassador program working with members of Congress. Recently, Elle began a new chapter in her career working in Air Cargo Sales at UPS Airlines. 

Elle is an outspoken LGBTQ+ activist who began her transformative journey in 2010. Elle is committed to being a role model and resource for LGBTQ+ youth by living as her authentic self. Elle currently serves on the board of directors for One Iowa. She is also a member of the Iowa County Democratic Party’s Central Committee and the Economic Development Committee of the Iowa County Board of Supervisors.