Program Manager of Research, Google
As a program manager for research programs at Google, Ashley Gardner (B.B.A. ’11) fosters collaborations between academia and industry to help facilitate idea exchange and develop groundbreaking solutions to societal challenges. Gardner helps lead this global effort that funds projects that have demonstrable societal impact.
As a mother to an autistic son, Gardner has learned to navigate complexities and advocate for his needs. Part of this has led her to creating Growing With The Gardners, a digital lifestyle channel through which she shares the everyday experiences of a full-time working mother and caregiver to a child on the autism spectrum. A proud GSU alum, Gardner credits the mentors she had and opportunities she received as a student — including as a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., 1913 Society and former Student Assistant under the Robinson College of Business Career Advancement Center — for encouraging a positive trajectory in her life. She actively mentors Panthers, engaging with both the Robinson College of Business and the Panthers in the Valley experiential learning program.