Meet Ashley

Board Member

What’s a fun or interesting fact about you that most people wouldn’t guess?

“I earned my college degree in Fine Arts — even though I can’t draw to save my life! I actually discovered my creative side through photography, launching my own photography studio while in high school. I photographed weddings, seniors, and families, but when I got to college, photography meant film and darkroom processing — a whole new (and much more challenging) world compared to the digital work I knew.”

What’s a book, movie, or song that inspires you and why?

“A book that inspires me is The Way of the Shepherd – it’s a quick read on communication and management of people and teams. It has a great message on leading by example and understanding that leadership isn’t just professional, it’s personal.”

If you could instantly master any skill, what would it be and how would you use it?

“Carpentry and electrical skills! I love a good renovation project and would like to do more of the work myself.”

When faced with hard times, what was the best advice you received or the biggest lessons you learned?

“The best advice I’ve learned through hardship is to simply meet people where they are, in whatever moment they’re in. During my toughest times, what I needed most wasn’t advice or solutions — it was for someone to acknowledge that I was hurting or struggling. I’ve realized that people often don’t know what to say, and that’s okay; just being there with an open heart and a willingness to support means more than you realize.”