Ashby and Megan prepare for students to arrive at Learning With Leaders at Skagit Valley College
After three years, Ashby is saying goodbye to the FuturesNW team as she begins an exciting new chapter in Western Massachusetts, where she is originally from.
Ashby’s journey with us began as the DVR Program Coordinator as part of her field practicum for her Masters of Social Work program at Tulane University. Later, in June 2022, she took on the role of the Learning with Leaders Program Coordinator. In her time with us, Ashby has left an undeniable mark on our team and those we serve.
From working as an outdoor educator and instructor in various states, to serving in the PeaceCorps as a Youth Development Specialist, Ashby’s background is truly impressive.
Ashby, the powerhouse driving Learning with Leaders (LWL), took on the incredible feat of developing the program and implementing it. Among her main responsibilities were establishing the program’s foundation and structures, as well as forging lasting community relationships, all of which have contributed to its remarkable success.
Two students use stethoscopes to listen to the heartbeat of a simulation baby
Working alongside her, the FuturesNW team had the privilege of watching the program come to life. Witnessing “the lightbulb” go off for students was just one of the many indicators of the transformative impact left on students. This impact, Ashby says, was one of her favorite aspects of her role at FuturesNW.
At each event, students got a taste for a diverse spread of high earning careers and pathways awaiting them post-high school. The series kicked off in fall 2023 at Whatcom Community College, where students explored various careers like medical assisting, engineering, and software development. At the following event, held in winter 2024 at Skagit Valley College, students got to test our more professions and experiences, from touring an ambulance, to operating a fire hose, to drawing fake blood. The series concluded in May 2024 at Bellingham Technical College, featuring an impressive lineup of 17 workshops. Here, students engaged in activities such as simulated C-sections, engine tune-ups using scan tool diagnostics, and dental fillings on artificial teeth, among many other immersive experiences.
Ashby smiles next to Megan and Volunteer Mary Powers at the Bellingham Technical College LWL
Read more about each of the three LWL events Ashby orchestrated in fall 2023, winter 2024, and spring 2024.
Ashby’s next adventure takes her to Buxton School, a small boarding school in Williamstown, Massachusetts, where she will serve as the Student Support Coordinator. In this role, she will be working between the mental health team and academic support team to help ensure a smooth transition for new students entering the school.
Ashby would like to express her deep gratitude to FuturesNW for helping shape her journey. She emphasizes that the community at FuturesNW, despite being largely remote, is stronger than most in-person positions.
“It’s unlike any other job and the support from the community is unparalleled.”
What will we miss about Ashby? To name a few: her endearing wit, infectious charisma, and special talent for connecting with youth. Her passion for youth development and experiential learning have left a huge impact on FuturesNW and our students, leaving an enduring legacy in which we are forever grateful.
Ashby, we’re so excited to see where this new chapter takes you. We couldn’t be more proud!
Ashby and FNW team members at a team building event