Ashley René Lee

Grand Rapids Community Foundation
Brilliant Connector

Ashley René Lee is a nonprofit and communications executive who helps organizations determine strategic direction and deliver messages through an equity lens. She previously led communications at Michigan State University and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and has written for publications such as Essence Magazine. Ashley is passionate about mentoring students and professionals in the fields of communications, philanthropy and nonprofit leadership. “... being an advocate for other women has always been a priority of mine. Connecting other women to networks, resources, information and opportunities for growth and advancement is among the most important work that I do. This is especially true for women of color who face added barriers when it comes to equitable access to networks and opportunities," says Ashley, whose accolades include being recognized by Grand Rapids Young Professionals as Young Professional of the Year, Who’s Who in Black Washington, D.C. as a Woman of Excellence Under 40 and as a finalist for the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award.