Ashley Thomas, MBA, MEDL

University Ombudsman & Title IX Coordinator

Greater Orlando

About

"Invest in the human soul. Who knows, it may be a diamond in the rough." — Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune With over 15 years of experience in higher education, my professional journey has been defined by a singular mission: leaving a footprint in the sand that marks a place better than I found it. As an Ombudsman and Title IX Coordinator, I serve as a neutral, independent, and confidential resource dedicated to fostering environments rooted in equity and safety. My approach is anchored by two non-negotiable pillars: Confidentiality and Integrity. Whether I am navigating complex Title IX investigations or mediating interpersonal conflicts, I guide myself by the highest ethical standards. My goal is to provide a space where every voice is heard, and every process is fair. I bring a unique "analytical meets empathetic" perspective to leadership. My background as a CPA and my dual Master’s degrees (MBA and Educational Leadership) allow me to understand the structural and financial complexities of a university, while my certification as a Sex Coach provides me with the specialized communication skills necessary to handle sensitive Title IX matters with profound grace and clinical clarity. I am a proud alumna of the University of Central Florida, Bethune-Cookman University, Florida A&M University, and the University of Phoenix. My commitment to service extends into my sisterhood as a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., where the values of scholarship and service mirror my daily work in student success and institutional leadership. Areas of Expertise: • Conflict Resolution: Neutral mediation and ombudsmanship. • Compliance: Title IX coordination, financial accuracy, and regulatory oversight. • Leadership: Strategic student engagement and retention (previously increasing campus participation by 25%). • Empowerment: Guiding students and staff through academic and professional hurdles. Beyond the office, my greatest pride is being the mother of one beautiful daughter—the ultimate motivation behind my drive to create a more just and inclusive world for the next generation.

Experience

  • University Ombudsman & Title IX Coordinator at Bethune-Cookman University
    Aug 2025 - Present · 11 mos

  • Accountant at University of Florida
    Jun 2023 - Oct 2025 · 2 yrs 5 mos

  • Bethune-Cookman University (1 yr 10 mos)
    • Director of Student Engagement & Leadership
      Aug 2022 - Jun 2023 · 11 mos

    • Student Success Coach
      Sep 2021 - Aug 2022 · 1 yr

  • Seminole County Public Schools (8 yrs 8 mos)
    • Accountant
      Jan 2015 - Aug 2022 · 7 yrs 8 mos

    • School Administrator
      Jan 2015 - Sep 2021 · 6 yrs 9 mos

    • School Administration Manager
      Jan 2014 - Sep 2021 · 7 yrs 9 mos