Next Up Columbus 2025: Ashley Grayson
Name: Ashley Grayson
Age: 37
Profession: Student Leadership & Engagement Advisor, The Ohio State University
Neighborhood: East Columbus
Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, The Ohio State University
Community Involvement: Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Columbus Urban League Young Professionals, Lead With Purpose Academy, OSU Black Alumni Society
Motto: Teamwork makes the dream work! – Destin Grayson
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Ashley Grayson is a dynamic force for connection, creativity, and community. A proud Columbus native and Ohio State alumna, Ashley spent over a decade in Human Resources championing employee growth before returning to her alma mater in a powerful new role. Today, she serves as the Student Leadership and Engagement Activities Advisor at OSU, where she mentors the Ohio Union Activities Board (OUAB) and helps bring more than 250 engaging programs to life each year. Her passion? Empowering student leaders to find their voice and build community through purposeful programming. Outside the university, Ashley channels her creative spark as the CEO of Allure Events and Co-Founder of Just Friends Events – an experience-based platform she launched to bring Columbus’s young professionals together through inclusive, unforgettable moments. She’s also a dedicated community leader, with service spanning Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., the Columbus Urban League Young Professionals, and the Purpose Academy, where she inspires teen girls to lead with confidence. Through every endeavor, Ashley leads with intention, showing up for her city and its future leaders with heart, vision, and purpose.
What gets you up in the morning? And what gets you through the workweek?
What gets me up in the morning and pushes me through each work week is my family. I literally wake up to the sounds of my screaming twins, an active preteen, and my incredibly supportive husband. They are my daily motivation, and I strive to give my children a life filled with unconditional love and opportunities,s and better than what I had growing up. Our household is often a beautiful circus of chaos and laughter, but it’s ours, and it fuels my drive. Despite the challenges, I’m committed to making a meaningful impact in the world around me every day, knowing that my hard work not only shapes my family’s future but also contributes to something greater.
What advice or mentors have helped guide you along the way?
The most significant advice that has shaped my journey is: “LIFT AS YOU CLIMB!” With every experience I gain, I make it a priority to share that knowledge with others and highlight their talents. For me, success isn’t just about my own personal achievements; it’s about creating a platform where small business owners and leaders like me can showcase their skills and thrive.
What do you do or where do you go to unwind?
I find that I unwind and thrive best in vibrant social settings where music and relaxation come together. Whether it’s attending concerts across various cities and states, traveling internationally, or engaging in social networking events, these experiences help me recharge and bring out the best version of myself.
What are a few of your favorite local spots in Columbus?
Easton Shops, Ground & Grind, Classic’s Victory’s, Land Grant, Columbus Commons, and any restaurant that offers good seafood.
When you were a kid, what did you say you wanted to be when you grew up?
I grew up in a sports family, so I just knew I would be a Sports Agent to share all the tea on all my family’s favorite football and basketball teams. Then I grew to love numbers, and the popular career back then was an Accountant. With my lively personality, I needed to switch gears to be with the people creating exciting event experiences.
What books or podcasts are you reading/listening to right now?
Woman Evolve with Sarah Jakes Roberts and The Potter’s House Sermons
What does it mean to you to be chosen for the Next Up Columbus award?
Being honored for the Next Up Columbus award is amazingly meaningful to me. After 20 years of service in my first leadership role, this recognition feels so personal. It’s a reminder that the work I pour into this city, the time, the energy, and the heart I give daily are seen and valued. It’s not just about the impact I’ve made, but also about the lives I’ve touched in this community and my commitment to helping it grow. It’s a celebration of purpose, service, and the belief that when we invest in our people, we build a stronger Columbus for everyone.
If someone were to ask you what the “pulse” of Columbus is, what would you tell them?
The pulse of Columbus is its unwavering heartbeat fueled by a deep passion for service, connection, and community. Born and raised here, I see myself as a reflection of the city’s rhythm, always moving, always engaged, and always finding ways to uplift others. Whether through events, advocacy, or collaboration, I strive to be part of the lifeline that keeps Columbus vibrant, connected, and flourishing.
The Next Up Columbus Awards, presented annually by the Columbus Young Professionals Club, recognize emerging leaders who are making a meaningful impact across Central Ohio. These honorees are innovators, connectors, and community champions helping to shape a brighter future for Columbus. Meet the entire Class of 2025 »