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Ashley Nelson
What is your role with The Center and what are you most excited about?
Vice President of External Affairs. I am excited about my position because I get to help shape policy around a topic I am very passionate about, learn about new and innovative pedagogy and research, and work with a fun, talented group of people to raise awareness and support for our youngest learners.
What is your background?
I studied History and Law and spent years living and working around the world as a “trailing spouse” in the Foreign Service. Since moving back to the States permanently, I have been very involved in my community through various organizations and worked on multiple political campaigns and state policy issues. My most important job, however, has been being a mother to three precious boys.
What is your favorite childhood book or literacy memory?
It’s hard to pick one – I loved being read to as a young child so much that I would memorize the books and recite them. The first chapter book I read was Charlotte’s Web and that when I realized the unique sense of companionship that comes from reading a story you really enjoy.
Flashback to when you were ten years old; what did you want to be when you grew up?
A lawyer.
If you could be anywhere in the world right now, where would you be?
On a mountain in Europe with my husband and kids.
What passion projects do you have outside of work?
I love to travel, especially with my family to interesting places we have never been. I love hiking, cooking, and meeting new people. I also enjoy painting or creating something, whenever I can find time.