Ashley Conner currently serves as the Deputy Athletic Director at Edward Waters University, where she provides leadership and oversight in academic support, athletic training, strength and conditioning, and key administrative operations. Widely recognized for her dedication to student-athlete success, she plays a vital role in shaping the university’s athletic programs while ensuring excellence in compliance, development, and holistic student support.
Conner joined Edward Waters Athletics in July 2023 as the Associate Athletic Director for Student Services and Senior Woman Administrator. In that role, she directed NCAA compliance, student services, and academic support, leaving a lasting impact on student-athlete achievement and overall departmental operations.
Her influence at Edward Waters extends beyond athletics. Prior to her transition into athletics administration, Conner served as the Executive Director of Student Success and Retention, where she advanced initiatives to improve academic outcomes and professional development. She also previously served as the Director of First and Second Year Experience, spearheading student retention strategies and transitional programming to strengthen student engagement and persistence.
Before her tenure at Edward Waters, Conner built a strong foundation in higher education through several key roles at Shaw University, where she spent five years as an Admissions Counselor, Tour Coordinator, Athletics Liaison, and Associate Director of Admissions and Recruitment.
A native of Blythewood, South Carolina, Conner earned her Bachelor of Social Work (B.S.W) from North Carolina Central University (2014) and a Master of Science in Sport Administration from Delaware State University. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy at Alabama A&M University.
Driven by her passion for student development and athletics, Conner continues to champion initiatives that enhance compliance, performance, and the overall student-athlete experience. Above all, she is a dedicated mother to her son, Kayden.
