Ashley comes from a communication and writing background. She majored in English with a concentration in Writing and Mass Communications at Assumption College where she graduated Summa Cum Laude and was on the Dean's list every semester. It was at Assumption that she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree. She then went on to earn a Master of Science degree from Fitchburg State University, majoring in Applied Communications, which focuses on the sociological, psychological, and cultural aspects of communication. Her capstone project involved the development of a marketing strategic plan for the Central Massachusetts Visitors Bureau. Ashley worked for several years at Mount Wachusett Community College in the Academic Support Center and for the school's TRIO program as an academic advisor.

Her current position at WPI supports various projects of the Marketing Communications division. This work includes web content development, writing and editing, email campaign support, managing Merit Pages, research, and coordinating with campus partners. She is also an Insight Advisor: a role that is part of the First-Year Experience program for freshmen students.