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For Dr. Jacqueline "Jackie" Ash, education has always been more than just a career – it's a calling. Born and raised in Pawtucket, Jackie's journey from aspiring teacher to dedicated administrator reflects her deep commitment to empowering young people in her community.

"I only ever wanted to be a teacher when I was a kid," Jackie recalls. After attending Catholic schools and graduating from Manhattanville University in New York, she returned to her roots in Rhode Island, where she discovered a passion for public education. Starting as a social studies teacher at Samuel Slater Middle School, Jackie's path took an unexpected turn when a principal saw leadership potential in her that she hadn't yet recognized in herself. "He saw something in me that I didn't even see," she reflects. "This was a tipping point in my life – to have someone believe in me and see me as a leader."

That moment of recognition sparked a remarkable administrative career spanning the entire K-12 spectrum, from Nathanael Greene Elementary School to Samuel Slater Middle School to Charles E. Shea Senior High School. "I saw a gap in the opportunities available to graduating seniors in Pawtucket," Jackie explains. "Many bright and hardworking students face significant challenges when it comes to pursuing higher education or career training. Whether it's the rising costs of education, a lack of resources, or limited access to guidance, I wanted to make a tangible difference."

Now retired, Jackie's commitment to education remains unwavering. "I'm leaving a profession, but I can never leave the kids. I want to continue to pay it forward...community, opportunity, and love." One of the ways Jackie is ‘paying it forward’ is through the newly created Dr. Jacqueline E. Ash Scholarship Fund, supporting graduating seniors from Shea High School who demonstrate the tenets of S.H.E.A – Skilled, Honorable, Empowered, Achievers.

Jackie chose to partner with the Rhode Island Foundation because of its strong reputation for fostering educational opportunities and effectively managing community funds. "The Foundation has a great reputation, built on integrity," she explains. "Education is supposed to be the equalizer, but educational opportunities aren't equal," she notes. "That's why I give.”