Ashley Harden, M.Ed.

As the Founder, CEO, and Board President, Ashley provides the visionary and operational leadership for HBCU Harvest, serving as the primary advocate for the organization’s mission and legacy.

As a Hampton University alumna (GO PIRATES!) and a seasoned educator with over 17 years of experience, Ashley Harden founded HBCU Harvest with a deep-rooted passion for Historically Black Colleges and Universities and a profound belief in their transformative power. Holding a Master of Education in Guidance and Counseling, Ashley has dedicated her career to helping students navigate their academic journeys, serving as a high school teacher, K-12 instructional coach, and higher education instructional designer.

In her dual role as CEO and Board President, Ashley acts as a strategic partner and mentor, bridging the gap between instructional excellence and organizational governance. Her commitment is fueled by her family's incredible multi-generational legacy at institutions including Hampton University, Grambling State University, Tuskegee University, Norfolk State University, Spelman College, Texas Southern University, Jarvis Christian College, Southern University, and Prairie View A&M University. Ashley believes that every student deserves the knowledge and support needed to not only gain acceptance but to find a place where they truly thrive. Her goal is to empower the next generation of leaders by providing the resources to successfully navigate the entire HBCU selection, application, and funding process.