Dr. Ashby has served United Way with dedication and integrity, guiding the organization through meaningful growth and strategic advancement. Under her leadership, United Way strengthened community partnerships, expanded donor engagement, and deepened its impact across education, health, and financial stability initiatives. Her ability to unite diverse stakeholders around a shared mission has left a lasting imprint on the organization and the community it serves. Dr. Ashby also served in public education with 25 years in Abilene ISD prior to her time at United Way.

During her tenure, Dr. Ashby championed response during the COVID pandemic and following natural disasters, raised millions in funding through annual campaigns and Winter Lightfest to support the important missions of twenty-four partner non-profit agencies, and the United Way Foundation was also established to create sustainable support for community growth.

She also encouraged early literacy through the implementation of Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library program, providing free books to children in Taylor County and the surrounding area.

Dr. Ashby will continue to serve as an adjunct professor in the MBA program at Abilene Christian University while also being an enthusiastic supporter for United Way and its Foundation.

“Dr. Ashby has positioned United Way as a trusted leader in addressing critical local needs. She is deeply committed to this community and the people who live in it,” said Jenny Goode, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Her leadership has strengthened United Way’s foundation and expanded its reach. On behalf of the Board and our community partners, we extend our deepest gratitude for her service and wish her the very best.”

The Board of Directors has begun the process of identifying the next President/CEO and is committed to a thoughtful and comprehensive search. United Way is seeking a dynamic, mission-driven leader to build upon the solid foundation established during Dr. Ashby’s tenure.