ASHLEY STEWART, PhD, is a developmental psychologist, equity scholar, and public policy fellow whose work explores the intersection of race, mental health, education, and technology in the lives of Black youth. Currently a Health Equity Research Fellow at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation and American Institutes for Research, she translates research into public-facing insights and community-informed policy recommendations. A former tenure-track professor, Ashley brings deep expertise in qualitative and mixed-methods research, with a particular focus on the mental health impacts of structural racism, digital ecosystems, and educational inequality. Ashley has led national studies on misinformation, mental health, and digital literacy among Black emerging adults, as well as research on the impact of federal workforce reductions on Black professionals. Her writing bridges scholarship, advocacy, and practice, and she is committed to uplifting the lived experiences of Black youth and families to inform structural change. Through the Public Voices Fellowship, Ashley hopes to expand her public scholarship and further amplify narratives that challenge deficit-based discourses and promote justice, healing, and joy for Black children and communities.
