Ashley Caldwell, a public policy major at Rutgers University-New Brunswick, has joined the New Brunswick Board of Education. The junior student from the Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy fills a vacancy left by her father, Dale G. Caldwell, who resigned to focus on his role as president of Centenary University.
Caldwell's appointment marks her as the youngest member of the board. She previously served as a student representative during her senior year at New Brunswick High School. Reflecting on her decision to join the board, Caldwell said, “I remember seeing the work that he did there and knowing how much of an impact I could have if I had my voice given to the school board.”
Her involvement in high school activities such as sports and clubs like the National Honor Society gave her insight into student needs. “I feel like I had a well-versed scope of what the students may need, and they felt comfortable talking to me,” she explained.
Caldwell plans to run for another term in 2026 and aims to attend law school. Her motivation is rooted in a desire to contribute positively to education policies in New Brunswick, where she has spent her entire educational career.
Dale G. Caldwell humorously noted that if Ashley serves as long as he did, she will be in her mid-40s by then. He emphasized their family's commitment to community service: “She was influenced to know that it’s not always about what you can get: It’s about what you can give.”
Ashley found inspiration in an introductory public policy course taught by Marci Berger at Rutgers. Berger praised Caldwell's appointment as “tremendously exciting” and mentioned discussing with students how Caldwell is now serving on the school board.
Caldwell expressed gratitude towards the school district for its role in her development: “They honestly have given so much to me and I really enjoyed my time there.” She believes effective policies can help urban schools unlock their potential.
Despite her busy schedule, Caldwell attributes this trait to family influence: “We do better when we’re busy for some reason.”
