Ellyn Jo Waller
Dr. Ellyn Jo Waller is an educator, advocate, author, and woman of faith whose life’s work reflects a deep commitment to service, justice, and the strengthening of families and communities. Through her leadership in ministry, tireless anti-human trafficking advocacy, and dedication to the uplift of women and children, she has become a respected voice for the vulnerable and a catalyst for meaningful change both locally and beyond. Rooted in education, guided by faith, and driven by compassion, she brings together scholarship and service in ways that have touched countless lives.
She is the partner in marriage and ministry of Rev. Dr. Alyn E. Waller, Senior Pastor of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church. They are the proud parents of two beautiful and accomplished young ladies, Elynn Morgan Johnson and Eryka Lynn Waller. They are blessed with the gift of three grandchildren, Kori Lynn, Xavier Robert and Reese Amari. She was educated in the New York City Public School System. She earned a BS in Special Education from Ohio University in Athens, Ohio, MSED and Ed.D. from Temple University in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Ellyn Jo is passionate about combating human trafficking, education and lifting the lives of women. In 2011, she led Enon Tabernacle in establishing an anti-human trafficking ministry, She’s My Sister, which seeks to raise awareness about the issue of human trafficking in faith communities throughout the Philadelphia metropolitan area. This ministry supports a local drop-in center, participates in street outreach, and advocates for local victims. She also participates in international anti-human trafficking efforts.
Ellyn Jo’s anti-human trafficking efforts have been acknowledged by numerous organizations over the years. She was honored by Pennsylvania Senator Robert P. Casey, Jr. during Black History Month as a leader from Pennsylvania who has paved pathways toward a brighter future for children and families throughout the Commonwealth (2020). She was named the 2023 Advocate of the Year by Women Against Abuse. In 2024, Ellyn Jo was awarded the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. – Pennsylvania Chapter (NC100BW-PA) Public Policy Trailblazer Award and later that year was honored as the Community Service Nominee by Urban One Philadelphia. In 2025, she received The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Award for Justice & Peace from the Wissahickon Faith Community and the Humanitarian Award from Mothers In Charge.
In February of 2025, Ellyn Jo launched the first book of a series entitled, The Fruitful Sisters: Kori & Mimi. The Fruitful Sisters is a journey of spiritual and familial discovery that celebrates family bonds, cultural roots, and the colorful wonders of nature. Book Two; Kori & PopPop was released on April 1, 2026. A donation of twenty-five percent of the book’s sales supports anti-human trafficking efforts.
Ellyn Jo is a woman of deep faith, committed to Jesus Christ and devoted to her family. Her faith profoundly shapes her concern for the vulnerable, and she views the words of Psalm 94:16 as a call to action. It is her heart’s desire to please God and be a blessing in the lives of others.