Ashley Rhodes-Courter is the epitome of resilience and determination, inspiring audiences worldwide to advocate for change and embrace personal growth. From her inaugural National Keynote at just 14 years old to captivating audiences across seven countries, Ashley’s journey resonates with strength and purpose.

Born into adversity in 1985, Ashley navigated the turbulent waters of Florida’s foster care system, enduring ten years of upheaval and abuse before finding her forever home at age twelve. Despite the chaos, she clung to her education as a beacon of hope, recognizing it as the one thing no one could take away.

Fueled by her own experiences, Ashley emerged as a tireless advocate for herself and her fellow foster children, challenging the injustices she witnessed. Her academic prowess earned her Eckerd College’s prestigious Trustee Scholarship, where she graduated with honors and a multitude of achievements, including a double major in Communications and Theater, and double minors in Political Science and Psychology.

Recognized as one of GLAMOUR Magazine’s Top Ten College Women and a USA Today All-USA Academic Team member, Ashley’s advocacy didn’t go unnoticed. She was honored as one of the Golden BR!CK Award winners for her exceptional commitment to community change, featured on millions of Cool Ranch Doritos bags as part of a nationwide campaign.

At just 22, Ashley became a New York Times Bestselling Author, captivating readers with her memoir “Three Little Words,” now an International Bestseller translated into multiple languages. Her subsequent book, “Three More Words,” soared to the top of Amazon’s Bestseller’s List, resonating with audiences worldwide.

Ashley’s impact extends far beyond the written word. Recognized with state, local, and national awards for her advocacy and philanthropy, she’s been invited to speak on Capitol Hill and has graced the halls of the White House twice. Her story is not just confined to pages; it’s destined for the silver screen, with “Three Little Words” slated for a major motion picture adaptation.

Ashley’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, advocacy, and the unwavering belief in the capacity for change. Her story inspires us to confront adversity with courage, advocate for those in need, and embrace the limitless potential within ourselves.

Testimonials

“The buzz after the luncheon was palpable ~ our guests love Ashley! She is a brilliant speaker who tells a tragic story is a poignant way yet keeps you in stitches. Brilliant! And, on a personal level, I truly enjoyed meeting such a warm and engaging young woman. I so wish she lived closer ~ I’d love to take her to lunch to thank her, celebrate her and get to know her a little better.”

-M.F., CHAIR, DALLAS CASA

On behalf of all of us here at Pendleton Place, THANK YOU for being such an integral part of a very successful day! We’ve received so many compliments and messages of positive feedback about this morning’s benefit breakfast including high praise for your ability to share such a critical message in an accessible way (with plenty of humor inserted to keep us all smiling!). It was our honor to host you, and your words have already done much for the children and families we serve. If you are ever in our neighborhood in the future, we’d love for you to stop by our campus and check out what we’re up to!

-J.D.M.P., ASSOCIATE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, PENDLETON PLACE

 

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