[1][2][5] Torrey continued her studies at the University of Mississippi (UM), where deepened her learning on contemporary folk art, and Black quilt making traditions.
[2] While attending UM, Torrey worked with the Center for the Study of Southern Culture, and curated a traveling exhibition on folk art toys.
[2] After graduating in 1985, Torrey became a program officer at the Pew Charitable Trusts in Philadelphia, an NGO working on the creation of artists' subsidized housing, and fundraising for local music organizations.
[2] In 1995, Torrey was elected president of the San Francisco Art Institute (SFAI), where she worked to amend some of the structural problems related to the organizational finances.
[4] After her death the Ella King Torrey Arts Fund was created at the Germantown Friends School in Philadelphia.