Ashley Aylett, Ed.D., MBA

age: 36 | Vice Chancellor for Academics | University of Arkansas Cossatot

As the Vice Chancellor for Academics, Dr. Ashley Aylett oversees so many facets of University of Arkansas Cossatot’s educational programs, especially many of the “behind-the-scenes” components of education. “A major part of what I do is work to develop new programs, ways to attract students, and partnerships to benefit current and potential students,” she describes. “As a community college, we serve such a diverse population – high school students, non-traditional students returning to education, students starting with us before transferring, and students working toward a technical skill set. I absolutely love helping students in working toward their dream! Our commencement ceremonies are always such an emotional and joyful time for me. It’s so fulfilling to watch students as they reach that milestone and walk across the stage in front of their support group. As a smaller institution, we have the ability to know the majority of our students and their personal journeys, and that makes it even more special!”

Ashley’s family is her greatest personal accomplishment.  She and her husband, Wes, have two children, Adalie and Cash.  “I am extremely proud of my husband and both of our children,” she says.  “I’ve been blessed with a support system that allows me to balance a professional career and being a mother.”   As a family, the Ayletts spend their summers on Lake Greeson and are avid UA Razorback fans.  She loves taking adventures with her family, spending time on her family’s farm, landscaping, and exercising.  

 Earning a doctorate in Community College Leadership and being selected the Outstanding Doctoral Student for the program at the University of Arkansas serves as Ashley’s greatest professional achievement. Although it was time-consuming and not the most enjoyable journey for her, after defending her dissertation and being welcomed back to the room as Dr. Aylett, Ashley knew that her educational milestone was something that she would treasure forever.

Helping out in the community is important to Ashley.  She is involved in Rotary Club and serves on the Little River Chamber board and the Ashdown PTO.  She says, “My main contribution is developing and building partnerships that benefit the future workforce pipeline.

“I try not to think too much about 10 years from now because both of my children will be in college or starting college,” Ashley concludes. “However, I do hope that I’m still making a difference in higher education.”

Best piece of advice:

“You don’t need good luck. you make your luck.” – Bruce Flemens, Ashley’s father

Name something about you that very few people know:

“I love ‘Little House on the Prairie.’ A couple of years ago, my daughter and I read the entire series and then traveled to Laura Ingalls-Wilder’s home/farm. It was the BEST trip!”