Ellen Campbell - Vice Mayor

Ellen Campbell serves as Vice Mayor of Needles, California, bringing more than four decades of community service, public-minded leadership, and unwavering dedication to the city she has proudly called home since 1984. Throughout her life, Ellen has committed herself to strengthening families, expanding local resources, and preserving the character and spirit of the desert community she deeply loves.

Ellen’s professional path began early. At just fifteen, she worked in a law office, gaining firsthand experience with confidentiality, ethics, and public trust—values that would anchor her future roles in both the private and public sectors. After earning her credentials as a Certified and Registered Dental Assistant, she joined Nissan Motor Corporation, rising through several departments to executive administration in advertising and sales promotion.

After relocating to Needles, Ellen played a key role in opening and operating her husband’s law practice, serving as a paralegal and administrative legal assistant for more than 40 years. She later extended her dedication to public service through her work with the County of San Bernardino as a substance abuse counselor, helping families remain stable and ensuring children could stay connected to their schools and communities.

A devoted mother of eight and foster mother to nearly 200 children, Ellen’s life has been defined by service, generosity, and compassion. Her commitment to the community extends to numerous civic and charitable organizations, including the Needles Women’s Club, Soroptimist International, BPODoes, Rotary, Lions, Kiwanis, and the American Cancer Society. Beyond her service work, she enjoys photography, stained glass, gardening, golfing, camping, and off-roading — though her greatest passion remains her family and the city of Needles.

Encouraged by her peers to seek public office, Ellen was elected to the Needles City Council in 2020 and reelected in 2024. Her fellow councilmembers selected her to serve as Vice Mayor in recognition of her leadership, work ethic, and collaborative spirit. In this role, Ellen continues to champion efforts to revitalize Needles, strengthen tourism, expand recreation, and protect the local environment. She remains deeply committed to ensuring that Needles thrives for future generations and continues to be a place where families can grow, feel supported, and take pride in their community.