Karen Ashley

As chief diversity officer for Providence, Karen Ashley is responsible for developing and leading diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) strategic initiatives that advance Providence’s vision of Health for a Better World.

Prior to joining Providence, Karen was the chief diversity and inclusion officer for American Electric Power (AEP) based in Columbus, Ohio. She served as advisor to the CEO, senior leadership team and business leaders across AEP’s 11-state territory. With over 20 years of diversity and human resources experience in the health, energy, construction and retail industries, Karen has held positions of influence in the following companies: Georgia Power, Ashland Paving and Construction, San Antonio Water System, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, Texas Med Clinic, and QVC.

She received a Master of Arts degree from Webster University and a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of North Texas.