Co-Founder and Co-CEO of School Board Partners 
New Orleans, LA

Ethan Ashley is a passionate attorney and elected official committed to transforming the educational landscape for students and their families to establish equitable systems. With a remarkable career spanning policy, advocacy, and governmental affairs, Ethan has traversed the corridors of Capitol Hill and held pivotal roles at esteemed institutions such as the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division, the Urban League of Louisiana, the ADL, and the Washington Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs.

Ethan's influence extends nationally as he offers executive coaching for school board members through programs like DFER’s Leaders of Color and RISE INDY. He has earned recognition as a 2023 NewDeal Fellow, 2019 Turman National Security Political Fellow, and former W.K. Kellogg Foundation Community Leadership Fellow, solidifying his status as a respected political and advocacy leader. Serving as the District 2 Representative and immediate past President of the Orleans Parish School Board, he played a pivotal role in passing a historic racial equity audit, led a Superintendent Search, helped schools from the Recovery School District and Orleans Parish School Board unify post-state takeover and steered budget and policy changes to enhance student outcomes, experiences, and environments, including the wages of the lowest paid workers in the school district to $15 an hour- becoming the first governmental agency to do so in New Orleans and passing a historic $21 million annual Early Childhood Education millage.

As an elected district D member for the Orleans Parish Democratic Executive Committee, Ethan is a powerful voice representing the Democratic Party in New Orleans. However, his impact extends far beyond politics. He serves as a board member of the National Juvenile Justice Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming youth justice systems across the United States. Additionally, Ethan contributes his expertise to the New Orleans Regional Leadership Institute (NORLI) and the Institute of Mental Hygiene (IMH), furthering the causes of community development and optimal mental health for children and families in New Orleans.

Beyond the accolades and achievements, Ethan Ashley is a fervent advocate for racial equity, youth justice, and civil rights. His narrative is one of resilience, unwavering leadership, and an enduring dedication to creating a brighter and more equitable future for all.