MONTGOMERY-AREA ARMY VETERAN ASHLEY JOHNSON BRINGS ALABAMA ADULT EDUCATION STORY TO CAPITOL HILL

MONTGOMERY, Ala. — September 18, 2026 — Montgomery business owner, Army veteran, nonprofit leader and adult education advocate Ashley Johnson recently traveled to Washington, D.C., after being selected as a featured speaker at a national congressional briefing focused on the role of community colleges in federal education and workforce investments.

The September 17th briefing, hosted by the Association of Community College Trustees (ACCT) in partnership with the Community College Coalition at the Russell Senate Office Building, brought together community college leaders and students to discuss federal investments in Pell Grants, Adult Basic Education, child care support for parenting students and workforce training programs.

For Johnson, the conversation was personal.

After leaving high school during her 11th-grade year, Johnson earned her GED through Adult Basic Education at Trenholm State Community College. While working toward her GED, she was approached by a military recruiter. After earning her GED, she enlisted in the United States Army and served 12 years.

Her educational journey continued after her military service. With assistance that included Department of Defense Tuition Assistance, on-base child care and Pell Grants, Johnson earned her bachelor's degree and MBA.

Today, Johnson is continuing that educational journey while pursuing a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership, while also leading her nonprofit organization, The Pivot Path, which helps individuals prepare for the GED and pursue educational and workforce opportunities.
At the congressional briefing, Johnson shared her story as an example of how access to Adult Basic Education and financial support can create opportunities that extend far beyond earning a credential.

“If it hadn’t been for the community college, I wouldn’t be here talking to you.”

Johnson's participation placed an Alabama adult education graduate at the center of a national discussion about the role community colleges play in strengthening America's workforce and expanding educational opportunity. ACCT's national announcement identified Johnson as one of the featured speakers at the briefing.

“I was honored to represent Alabama and share my story on a national stage,” said Johnson. “My journey began with Adult Basic Education, and it changed the direction of my life. Now, as I pursue my Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, I am committed to using what I have learned to help others see education as a pathway to opportunity.”

Johnson plans to continue meeting with policymakers and representatives as discussions surrounding adult education, workforce development and educational access continue.