Continental Who's Who

Ellen L. Young

Ellen L. Young is recognized by Continental Who’s Who as a Pinnacle Professional Member in the Educational field. Prior to retirement, Young served as the Disability Services Director at Oxnard College. She worked in this position for 16 years and brought 50 years of total experience, as well as expertise in educational administration and learning disability education, to her role. “Oxnard College, an accredited two-year institution of higher education, has been a part of the Ventura County Community College District since 1975,” the college’s website states. “Located in the heart of Ventura County two miles from Pacific Ocean beaches, Oxnard College is part of the largest and most vibrant city in Ventura County with a multi-cultural diversity that gives our College a unique and exciting student life. Oxnard College is a learning-centered institution that embraces academic excellence by providing multiple pathways to student success.” Young started her career as a third grade teacher and working with “special education” (a term she always found repugnant) students. In 1990, she then started working in the area of secondary education. As an expert in learning disability education during her time at Oxnard College, Young was responsible for planning and evaluating programs, accommodating students with disabilities and evaluating employees. She also handled all academic and disability counseling, and wrote reports and grants. Young earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education, as well as a Master’s degree in Special Education. Her Master’s thesis topic was on early identification, and she completed Master’s degree coursework in educational administration. Additionally, Young is Educational Administration-certified. To further her professional development, Young is the former President of the California Association for Post-Secondary Education and Disability. She is also involved with the Museum of Tolerance and the Simon Wiesenthal Center. “Be a teacher,” Young said. “You’ll always have a job.” When not working, Young enjoys reading, traveling with Overseas Adventure Travel and completing the LA Times Crossword Puzzle. She dedicates this recognition to her parents: he mothers, Florence S. Lester, and her father, Lewis G. Lester.