Meet Ellie Schwartz ’20. Ellie is the Founder and Creative Director of OF THE NORTH, a digital marketing and social media agency based on the North Shore of O‘ahu but serving clients nationwide.
What keeps you busy these days? What are you doing for work and for play?
Becoming a business owner definitely keeps me busy—I like to joke that I traded in my 9-to-5 for a 24/7. I live full-time in Hawai‘i, and in 2024 I founded Of the North (OTN), a digital marketing and social media agency based on the North Shore of O‘ahu but serving clients nationwide. My work blends deep brand research with creative execution—taking the time to truly understand a brand, then bringing that strategy to life across websites, social media, and digital campaigns. We work with an incredible range of clients in industries like hospitality, beauty, wellness, fitness, food and beverage, and CPG. Outside of work (though I consider much of what I do to be a form of play), you can usually find me surfing, free diving, hiking, or staying active at my local workout studios.
What is a piece of advice that you would give to a current Auggie or young alumni?
Make the most of every opportunity Augsburg offers—there are countless resources, grants, and people eager to support you. During my sophomore year, I received Augsburg’s environmental stewardship grant, which allowed me to travel to Hawai‘i for the first time to live and work on an organic coffee and fruit farm. I was able to turn that experience into an independent study, gaining hands-on knowledge and building connections that shaped my post-college career. Opportunities don’t always look like their final form at the start—sometimes they plant seeds that will grow into something you can’t yet imagine. Stay curious, stay open, and take advantage of the people and programs around you.
Who is an Auggie (alumni, faculty/staff, friend, etc.) that inspires you or that has impacted you and why?
My dad. He coached Augsburg’s Men’s Hockey team and has been one
of my greatest influences, both personally and professionally. His lessons went far beyond the ice—about preparation, resilience, teamwork, and leadership. Now, as a business owner, I find myself drawing on those same principles daily. There are so many parallels between sports and entrepreneurship, and I’m grateful to have had a lifelong mentor who modeled what relationship-building, dedication and integrity look like in action.
What is a fun or favorite memory of your time at Augsburg?
My Augsburg memories start long before college. Growing up, my siblings and I basically lived on campus—Si Melby was our playground. One minute we’d be shooting hoops in the gym, the next we’d be playing racquetball, tumbling on the mats in the wrestling room, or running laps under the dome. Augsburg always felt like a second home, so attending as a student was a full-circle moment for me.
Thank you, Ellie!