Ashley C. Williams

Ashley has over 13 years of experience in higher education at Kent State University, where she has supported student success, managed university and grant funded budgets and optimized operations. As a proud alumna of the Kent State University Upward Bound Math Science program, she is honored to give back to a program that played a pivotal role in her own academic and personal success.

Position

As the Senior Business Manager, Ashley oversees the financial and budgetary operations of multiple federal grants, including TRIO Upward Bound Classic, TRIO Upward Bound Health Professions, TRIO Upward Bound Math Science, TRIO Educational Opportunity Centers, and the Prison Reentry Program. She ensures all fiscal activities comply with federal regulations and Kent State University policies.

Experience

Prior to serving as the Senior Business Manager, Ashley held several roles within the institution, focusing on diversity training, student retention, fostering a sense of belonging for underrepresented and underserved students, as well as budget and operations oversight. Ashley’s experience extends to local nonprofits, where she managed state, city, and federal grant-funded budgets, developed financial procedures, and oversaw key functions such as human resources, accounts payable, and payroll, to ensure operational efficiency.

Direct Reports

Juliette Streeter - Administrative Assistant