Ashley Fox, Deputy Chief of Staff, D.C. City Council

What was the most valuable thing you learned from WeLead?
WeLead taught me the critical steps of how to leverage a network, not just build one. The program offered an incredible opportunity to hear from women who were not only doing interesting, impactful work at all levels but also explaining the specific ways they leaned on good relationships to reach their goals. Ultimately, WeLead empowered me to use both what I know and who I know in authentic, intentional ways. That lesson has been invaluable. 

What was your favorite part of the program?
Fundraising! I had no idea how to plan a fundraiser or make a good donation pitch beforehand. This portion of the program pushed me out of my comfort zone, revealed some new strengths of mine, led to some great peer learning with my fundraising team, and made running for office feel much more achievable. 

What advice would you give to the current WeLead class?
Take time to meet and speak with every woman in your class. You will all do important, impactful things post-program, and you never know when your paths will cross again! 

How did you secure your current position, and did it include any WeLead networking or alumnae?
I landed my current job in a D.C. councilmember's office after volunteering on the election campaign for her first term. I have worked with WeLead alumnae throughout my nearly five years in City Hall and continue to meet fellow graduates across my professional circles. 

Any other thoughts on your WeLead experience?
In a city where the personal is often political, it can be hard to meet and build relationships with people who hold different political beliefs through regular social circles. I appreciate WeLead providing a bipartisan space even more now as an alumna, and I credit the program with some of my strongest friendships in DC. 

Fox manages community engagement strategies and stakeholder relationships around legislative priorities for D.C. Councilmember-at-Large Elissa Silverman. In addition to continuing to support WeLead, she works with the Public Leadership Education Network. Fox earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Washington University in St. Louis, MO.