Tessa Ward Ashe

Tessa Ward Ashe is an accomplished educational leader, student advocate, and nonprofit director with more than three decades of experience dedicated to empowering individuals through education, mentorship, and community engagement. She currently serves as Dean of Students at SailFuture Academy in St. Petersburg, Florida, where she fosters a culture of accountability, leadership, and personal growth through an innovative, hands-on learning environment. In addition, she serves as Director of New Beginnings Youth Homes Incorporated, overseeing programs that provide support and stability for foster youth, veterans, individuals in recovery, domestic abuse survivors, and other at-risk populations. Throughout her career, Tessa has remained committed to building meaningful relationships, breaking down barriers, and creating opportunities for those facing significant life challenges.

Tessa's professional journey began after immigrating to the United States, where she worked as an interpreter for the deaf before teaching American Sign Language for 12 years. Her passion for education and advocacy led her into school administration, where she served as an assistant principal, climate and culture specialist, behavior specialist, and ultimately Dean of Students. She is recognized for her expertise in relationship building, discipline and professional environment coaching, and designing hands-on, project-based educational experiences that integrate sailing, business partnerships, and real-world learning opportunities. Her work particularly benefits students who thrive outside traditional classroom settings, including those with ADHD, gifted learners, and youth in foster care.

Academically, Tessa earned an Associate in Science in Sign Language Interpretation and Translation, a bachelor's degree in Leadership and Ministry from Trinity College of Florida, and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Argosy University. She is an active member of the Florida Association of School Administrators and continues to serve as an interpreter and advocate for Alcoholics Anonymous and other nonprofit recovery organizations. Guided by her faith, servant leadership philosophy, and commitment to family, Tessa attributes her success to building strong connections, championing meaningful causes, and helping others recognize and develop their unique strengths. Through her leadership, she continues to inspire students, educators, and communities to pursue purpose, resilience, and lifelong growth.