Ashley M. Flete
Ashley Flete is an accomplished bilingual journalist and media and marketing specialist with over five years of experience spanning journalism, media, and higher education communications. A graduate of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, Ashley has built a career rooted in storytelling, strategic communication, and community engagement. Her work reflects a unique ability to connect with diverse audiences, craft compelling narratives, and drive meaningful impact through media and marketing initiatives.
Beginning her career as a multimedia journalist and news anchor, Ashley covered a wide range of stories—from breaking news to politics—demonstrating a commitment to providing audiences with accurate, trustworthy information. Her transition into entrepreneurship and the lash industry further highlighted her creativity, business acumen, and passion for fostering connections. She has also contributed her expertise to public service, including communications work at the Law Offices of the Public Defender, sharpening her skills in high-pressure and high-stakes environments.
Currently, Ashley serves as Senior Communications Specialist at Florida A&M University, where she leads strategic communication efforts that amplify the university’s mission and accomplishments. Leveraging her background in journalism and media, she oversees digital, print, and social campaigns, ensuring consistent and impactful storytelling. Beyond her professional achievements, Ashley is a dedicated advocate, philanthropist, and connector, bringing her energy, creativity, and passion for social impact to every project she undertakes.
• Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University - BA
• Dean's List
• Honor Roll
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a combination of curiosity, adaptability, and a deep commitment to storytelling. My career began in the newsroom as a multimedia journalist and anchor, where I honed my ability to convey information accurately and compellingly. I later embraced entrepreneurship in the lash industry, which taught me resilience, creativity, and the importance of connecting authentically with people. Today, as a senior communications specialist at a university, I continue to center my work on providing clear, trustworthy information that makes an impact.
My experience at the Public Defender’s Office during the COVID-19 pandemic was particularly formative. Working under pressure, I learned how to communicate with both clarity and empathy, ensuring that complex information could be understood and trusted. That experience reinforced my dedication to using communication not just to inform, but to empower and support others.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received came through the guidance of mentors who invested in me with intention. Leaders like Taylor Bishop, whom I met in college, helped me create my first reel, which ultimately led to my first mentorship opportunity. Chris Payne, Christina Watkins, and Ernest Nail were also instrumental in my growth—Christina even allowed me to shadow her on-site, giving me invaluable real-world experience. These mentors guided me selflessly, offering support without hidden agendas, and helped me develop clear plans of action for my career.
I’ve also learned important lessons from mentors whose guidance came with strings attached. Those experiences taught me to recognize authenticity in others—and in myself—and to value relationships built on trust and genuine support. I’m deeply grateful to those who have shown me what thoughtful, intentional mentorship looks like and for the role they’ve played in shaping my professional journey.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I always encourage young women entering this industry to stay true to their values—respect, hard work, and faith have guided me both personally and professionally. Seek out mentors who genuinely want to see you succeed, and embrace opportunities even if the timing doesn’t feel perfect. Growth requires persistence, patience, and a willingness to learn along the way.
Approach every opportunity with preparation and authenticity. Listen carefully, respect the process, and leverage mentorship to guide your development. Building a career isn’t just about recognition—it’s about cultivating a community rooted in integrity, professionalism, and meaningful impact. When challenges arise, don’t dwell on them; instead, put your best foot forward, remain resilient, and continue moving toward your goals.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The media industry has evolved dramatically over the years, and with that evolution comes both challenges and opportunities. One of the biggest challenges is the blurring of lines between journalism and content creation; having a phone doesn’t make someone a journalist. True reporting requires discipline, neutrality, and integrity.
At the same time, the rise of AI-generated content and the speed at which social media shapes narratives presents an opportunity to reaffirm the value of responsible journalism. These changes have pushed me to rely even more heavily on my core principles—respect, hard work, and faith—which keep me grounded, focused, and committed to honesty in every professional space I occupy.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are clarity, follow-through, and respect—for both processes and the people around me. My parents instilled in me a strong work ethic, teaching me that while hard work may feel challenging in the moment, it ultimately pays off. They also emphasized the importance of faith and always putting my best foot forward—not just for my family, but for my teammates and colleagues as well.
Service is also a core part of who I am. I remain active in the National Association of Black Journalists and the Florida A&M Alumni Association, and in 2021, I founded Feed the Friends, a local initiative supporting the homeless community in Tallahassee. Additionally, I served as president of the Millennial Mommies Club’s Tallahassee chapter, organizing monthly events to support mothers and families across the city. These experiences reflect my commitment to giving back and building community, both personally and professionally.