Ashley Anderson holds a doctoral degree in Special Education from UNC Charlotte. She also has an M.Ed. in Special Education from UNC Charlotte and a Bachelor's in Special Education from Western Carolina University. She currently serves as an assistant professor in Special Education at UNC Pembroke in the School of Education and an adjunct professor in Special Education at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. She has 12 years of experience in the classroom serving students with extensive support needs, as well as her National Board Certification for students with extensive support needs. Her research interests include supporting students with extensive support needs, early transition-based skill learning, and community-based instruction.  In her spare time she serves as the local coordinator for Special Olympics Gaston County (in NC) and participates in several professional organizations in addition to supporting a transition program for students with intellectual disabilities in her community. She enjoys spending time with my family and friends, participating in sports and outdoor activities, baking, and crafting.