Ashlei Collins

Ashlei Collins leads all efforts to maintain, promote, and support the programs and services provided by the GEAR UP SWV grant for cohort students. She serves as the project lead for Student Success Agency (SSA), Tutor.com, and College and Career Clubs (CCC). In her role, Collins assists teachers with integrating these resources into their classrooms and regularly visits schools to help students access and make the most of the opportunities available to them.

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Get to Know Ashlei

As a first-generation college student, Ashlei began college right after high school but wasn’t sure what career path she wanted to pursue, so she decided to step away. She later married and started a family, and it was through motherhood that she discovered her true passion—helping young people find their paths.

When her children started Pre-K, Ashlei returned to Concord University, where she earned a Regent’s Bachelor of Arts degree. After graduation, she began substitute teaching for Raleigh County Schools, thinking her passion was teaching high school math. She soon realized, however, that her real calling was helping students—especially young adults—prepare for their futures.

“I’m the proud mom of triplets who are 18 years old and preparing to attend college this fall,” she shared. “In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my children and family. I also love shopping, fishing, hunting, and serving others.”

Ashlei understands that many students worry about their next steps because they’re uncertain about which career path to take. She loves that GEAR UP SWV helps students explore their options through college visits, campus experiences, and summer camps where they get a taste of college life while building the skills they’ll need to succeed.

“My time with my students allowed me to be more than a teacher,” Collins said. “I was a counselor, a mom, a referee, and a cheerleader. Transitioning to GEAR UP SWV allows me to share these traits with even more students across southern West Virginia. I hope to encourage and challenge them to become the best they can be—helping secure a legacy of strength and resilience in Appalachia.”