He rose from a teacher at the institute to the presidency, which he held for longer than anyone before or since, and in many ways he brought the institute into its modern form. During Ellingson's tenure in office from 1936 to 1969, enrollment in day and evening classes rose from 2,250 to 16,000.
He advanced from a teacher at the institute to the presidency, holding it longer than any predecessor or successor. During Ellingson's term as officeholder from 1936 to 1969, enrollment in day and evening classes increased from 2,250 to 16,000.