Ashley Clarke - Dr. Phillips High School

Ashley is a vibrant, compassionate servant who uses her words – and encourages others to do the same. She believes in the healing power of humanities using art and the written word. As one of the leaders of her school’s Poetry Club she encourages other students to express their feelings by writing on topics which are relevant to today’s society. She began volunteering at an early age. Her most important lesson learned from the ‘lunch lady’ was to show up on time and be present for as long as it takes. This lesson has led her to volunteer for many events including art shows, feeding the needy and roadside cleanups. Ashley serves on the Ocoee Youth Council which helps youth to make decisions for the betterment of the community. Her love of words and art has been rewarded in honorable mentions in the Orlando Fair Art Competition and Scholastic Art and Writing Awards Competition. She placed third in the school district’s poetry competition. 

Favorite MLK quote: "Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."

Future Plans: Ashley has accepted the full scholarship opportunity from Tennessee State University and the National Basketball Retired Players Association.