Ellinger is an attorney who graduated from the University of Kentucky Law School with an undergraduate degree from Rollins College and continuing studies toward a Masters in Public Administration at UK’s Martin School.

He belongs to a number of civic and professional organizations, including the Housing and Support Services Commission, the National League of Cities’ Public Safety and Crime Prevention Policy Committee, the Senior Intern Commission, The Lexington Rotary Club, and the Kentucky and Fayette County Bar Associations.

Ellinger serves on the Budget and Finance committees.