Hi, I’m Ashley!
I'm a creative at heart, an educator by calling, and a wife, mom, leader, artist, and lifelong learner by life's beautiful design. Whether I'm painting a canvas, writing poetry, facilitating meaningful conversations, or creating spaces where people feel seen and valued, I'm most energized when helping others discover the beauty and possibility within themselves.
For more than 18 years, I've had the privilege of serving in schools and nonprofit organizations, leading initiatives centered on leadership, belonging, learning, and human connection. While my roles have changed over the years, the heart behind my work has remained the same: people matter. Every person carries a story worth honoring, gifts worth sharing, and experiences that shape who they are becoming.
Outside of work, you'll usually find me creating something—painting, writing, dancing in the kitchen, reading, dreaming up workshops, or spending time with family and friends. Creativity isn't simply something I do; it's one of the ways I make sense of the world and connect with others.
I believe we are all made up of pieces—our joys, challenges, relationships, dreams, mistakes, triumphs, and moments of growth. Every piece has value. Every story has meaning. And when we pause long enough to reflect on those pieces, we often discover purpose that was there all along.
This website is my landing place—a collection of the pieces that have shaped me and continue to inspire me. Here you'll find art, writing, reflections, stories, and resources that I hope encourage you to embrace your own journey with curiosity, courage, and compassion.
This is also the home of Purpose in the Pieces LLC, where I partner with individuals, schools, organizations, and teams through workshops, consulting, and speaking experiences designed to help people reflect, connect, and grow. If you're interested in learning more about those services, you'll find the Purpose in the Pieces button below.
Whether you're here because of a painting, a poem, a workshop, or simple curiosity, welcome! I’m so glad you're here.
Behind the Pieces
During my junior year in college, I prayed that God would not allow anything that I experienced to be in vain. I asked that God would not only help me overcome every obstacle I faced, but also that He'd use me to help others overcome theirs. Ever since I was young, I’ve used art (visual, literary, and performance) as a means not only to process life, but also to capture inspiring messages and lessons, and share them with those around me. Through creating and sharing, I've been able to not only face life head-on but also encourage others along the way. PIECES OF ME is a compilation of my art, poetry, soul, and service. It is the platform through which I've used my pieces to heal and express my own soul while inviting others to do the same.
I am
determined
to transform every awkward part of me
every tear
every fragment of pain
every feeling of misfit
into a masterpiece of a life
one in which
possesses power
and purpose
one that radiates LOVE
in such a way that even those
in distant lands
feel my touch
rays of sunshine
SONshine
healing rays
warming rays
rays of hope
rays of light
dispelling darkness and all of its bondage