Ashley Caldwell, a senior at Rutgers University, graduated this spring after serving on the New Brunswick Board of Education since her junior year, according to an April 29 announcement. Caldwell held the Bible for her father, Dale Caldwell, as he was sworn in as New Jersey’s lieutenant governor at Gov. Mikie Sherrill’s inauguration during her final semester.
Caldwell’s involvement in public service is part of a family tradition. She began at Rutgers with plans to study psychology but switched to public policy after discovering a passion for helping others through innovative solutions. “Ever since I was little, I had a passion to help people who couldn’t help themselves,” said Caldwell. “I took a public policy course and fell in love with the subject matter. I felt like it was one of the only majors that you’re asked to come up with your own innovative solutions.’’
Caldwell has served on the school board since August 2024 and recently secured re-election by winning the most votes in April’s election for a three-year term. She first filled the seat vacated by her father when he became president of Centenary University and later secretary of state. Reflecting on being asked to fill his seat, she said: “My family encouraged me… I also knew I had a voice to advocate for other young people. I felt like I’d be doing a disservice if I didn’t run for the position.”
Her experience includes campaigning door-to-door during Sherrill’s primary campaign and interning at Capital Impact Group, where she works with legislators on policy priorities and recently participated in advocacy efforts in Washington D.C.
The Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy—where Caldwell studied—is recognized nationally for its graduate urban planning program (ranked third) and undergraduate public health program (ranked fourth), according to its official website. The school operates as part of Rutgers University and is led by Dean Stuart Shapiro since 2023 according to its official website.
The Bloustein School focuses on building just, socially inclusive communities locally and globally through research centers dedicated to community development, transportation, health, workforce development, and energy policy according to its official website. The school also recognizes distinguished alumni through its Hall of Fame established in 2013 according to its official website.
After graduation, Caldwell plans a gap year before deciding whether to continue working at Capital Impact Group or pursue further studies in public policy.