Ashley R. Johnson

I am a graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s Graduate School of Education, holding a Master of Science in Higher Education, and a graduate of The Ohio State University where I studied History, French and Public Policy.

I come from a K-12 background, having served as a Teach for America Corps Member in Cleveland, Oh where I taught 4th grade Writing and Grammar.

Currently, I serve as Program Director of the NY region with America on Tech. In this role, I partner with various stakeholders to support in driving AOT's mission to decrease the racial wealth gap by increasing equitable pathways for underestimated students into degrees and/or careers in technology.

Outside of my non-profit work, I have experience facilitating workshops on diversity, equity, and privilege for educators, administrators and undergraduate students. This work has also included direct student advising and developing curricula on identity development and social justice as related to short-term, direct service initiatives. I have done this work at two Ivy League institutions, Columbia University in the City of New York and the University of Pennsylvania, gaining a deep insight into the complex relationship between wealthy universities and the underserved communities in which they are situated.

Academically, my research interests include college access and retention for historically underrepresented populations, socially responsible civic engagement, race and equity in higher education, and the role of culturally responsive pedagogy in K-16 educator preparation. As well, I have conducted research on school desegregation and its effects on African-American families.

In my free time, I curate The Little Bite Kitchen, a resource for the at-home chef filled with recipes, how-to’s and opportunities for event planning.