Ashley Leiss — who grew up in Hershey, The Sweetest Place on Earth — is a Development and Communications Associate for Home of the Sparrow, an Exton-based nonprofit that partners with women facing homelessness to secure housing, achieve long-term stability, and chart new paths for their futures.

Leiss, who began working when she was 14 years old as a receptionist at Hersheypark Camping Resort, earned a bachelor’s degree in Broadcasting, Telecommunications, and Mass Media from Temple University. She credits a former mentor, Amanda Owens, with having the biggest impact on her career.

“Like me, Amanda started her career as a journalist,” said Leiss. “Coming from such a specific field, I was nervous I wouldn’t be able to pivot into another career path. She really helped and assured me that my skills as a reporter could help me in any career I chose. And she was right!”

Her proudest professional achievement was being the only reporter from her television station sent to cover the Jerry Sandusky trial.

“It was an incredibly challenging few months reporting on the details of that trial and the events that unfolded,” said Leiss.

She calls her work with Home of the Sparrow the most rewarding of her career.

“I am very passionate about our mission and bringing awareness of homelessness in Chester County,” Leiss said. “What I enjoy the most is hearing the stories of our women participants. Their resiliency, determination, and gratitude is inspiring.”

Her favorite restaurant in Chester County is Honeybrook Golf Club’s Greenside Grill, where she enjoys dining with her family and watching the golfers.

Leiss and the rest of the 2022 Class of VISTA Millennial Superstars will be honored at the Awards Reception & Celebration held outdoors on Tuesday, May 10 at Penn State Great Valley. The in-person event will feature food trucks, drinks, touchless registration, a VIP tent, and boundless opportunities to network. It will also be live-streamed.

Sponsors are still being sought. Click here to learn more about the various opportunities available to partner with VISTA Today as it celebrates Chester County’s next generation of leaders.