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ALUMNI PROFILE: Ashley Kress '12

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Posted on Thursday, July 19, 2018

Ashley Kress ’12 always thought she would become an English teacher, but after some stops and starts, she found her true calling in digital marketing.

As a self-described “avid reader, lover of digital media, higher education fanatic, and customer relations enthusiast,” Kress’s current role at Hanover College (Hanover, Ind.) combines all of those favorite interests.

As Hanover’s assistant director of social media, Kress connects with alumni and current and prospective students where they are—on social media and the internet—to promote the small liberal arts school.

Navigating the waters toward her perfect career was not a straight line for Kress. After coming to terms that perhaps teaching English wasn’t the best fit for her, she discovered film studies her sophomore year. She was also tasked with overseeing Facebook groups for multiple Westminster student organizations, introducing her to the world of digital marketing and social media.

“I flirted with the idea of pursuing public relations or communications, but I ended up falling in love with film studies. Pairing my love of books and film helped me make it through college and awakened the idea of whole-heartedly pursuing the things I loved as a career. I just had to find those passions in the workforce,” Kress said.

And eventually she did. Following her graduation from Westminster, she worked as a social media coordinator and then went on to earn her master’s from Point Park University. Ultimately her path led her to Hanover.

“I am now working in my dream career at the best little college in Indiana,” said Kress.

Given the countless opportunities and organizations that Kress was exposed to during her time at Westminster, she credits joining her sorority, Kappa Delta, as the experience that had the most impact on her. She learned how to be a leader, work with diverse groups through the Panhellenic Council, and build her confidence.

Kress believes that her Westminster education truly prepared her for the real world, where many times she must rely on her inner strength to push past her comfort zone.

“For me, attending Westminster was a launchpad to the best parts of my life and career,” Kress said.

~ Kendall Graham ’19