Ashley Byrd

Class of 2008 Chair

How did Earlham help prepare you for your current career?

“Since leaving Earlham, I have been a public servant in AmeriCorps and with the United States Navy.”

Why do you volunteer for the college?

“Since leaving Earlham, I have served the public in multiple capacities. First, as a member of AmeriCorps VISTA and then with the United States Navy. Currently, I am a dual master’s degree candidate of Social Policy and Social Work and a naval reservist. Earlham granted me a holistic educational opportunity and the space to live and learn unfettered. Earlham’s principles and practices grounded my Earlham educational experiences, and how those principle continue to impact my life are outlined below. Integrity guides the decisions that I make and the opportunities that I choose to pursue. ‘Respect of persons’ framed how I chose to engage with diverse communities. ‘Peace and justice’ inform my dedication to assisting communities to overcome economic, health, and housing disparities. ‘Simplicity’ guides my commitment to mental and physical health, practicing yoga, and sustaining positive relationships with friends and family. ‘Community’ frames my commitment to practicing cultural humility when empowering communities through identity-affirming social stewardship.”

Favorite Earlham memory?

“As the class of 2008 alumni co-chair, I hope to continue to foster positive relationships amongst my fellow class alumni and the broader Earlham College community. I am committed to ensuring that the class of 2008 has an active and strong voice in the Earlham College community.”