Ashby inspires through empathy, vulnerability, and an unwavering willingness to stand up when things get uncomfortable. When I first met Ashby, I was struck by how she is equal parts, confident, commanding, and kind. Her presence is undeniable, but she has an uncanny ability to disarm and relate to even the most guarded people. In our working relationship, Ashby consistently challenged me to go deeper, see what is unseen, and deliver at the highest standard. I always felt that my goals and career were important to her and the projects I worked on aligned with my growth. As a mentor, Ashby devotes herself to those she engages with and is deeply committed to the growth of those she fosters. In our relationship, Ashby opened her network to me, and encouraged me to grow in my industry speaking engagement goals. She brings a dedication and tenacity to every endeavor.

No words satisfy when describing a master. Ashby improves everything she touches, both human and digital. Her incisive eye for design and profound empathy for people creates unparalleled experiences. Ashby's methods can only be described as disciplined simplicity. She knows how to chisel away the excess, leaving behind the elegant, intuitive, and necessary. With people, Ashby’s approach is generous and warm. Ashby regularly shares her wealth of knowledge, kindness, and time to the heroes she mentors. I reserve the highest of recommendations for Ashby. People like her are experienced once in a million.

Ashby is a driven leader at her company, and a dedicated mentor to and champion of women at various points of transition in their profession. I was introduced to Ashby by a colleague and collaborator in the civic tech space and was blown away by her passion for supporting women advance in their careers - she has made time for me and so many others at a crucial moment in our professional lives. She's also deeply involved in the community, often speaking at events around the Greater Puget Sound, Chair of the WUD organizing committee and the technology curriculum board for Bainbridge High School.

Ashby was one of the most impactful managers I have had in my career. I learned so much from her about leadership, taking a seat at the table, setting up and running an innovative UX team, and designing towards the future while leading the vision. Her design strategy is top notch. She paved the way for me to follow my dreams as a designer while also making me a better designer in the process. She will forever be a great mentor of hero's.