Name
Ashley Tenter
Age
38
Company/Organization
United Way of Southwest Michigan
What Does Your Company/Organization Do?
United Way of Southwest Michigan represents what it means to come together as a community. It’s not just about raising money, it’s about connecting people to opportunities, resources, and each other. I’m especially passionate about how we support children and families, ensuring everyone has the chance to thrive no matter their circumstances. In my role, I get to help tell those stories and show our community the real impact of coming together.
Education
I hold an Associate of Arts degree from Southwestern Michigan College and a Bachelor of Arts degree with a minor in Art History from Western Michigan University.
Accomplishments
Captured and curated thousands of photographs for United Way of Southwest Michigan, building a comprehensive image catalog that highlights events, volunteer initiatives, community impact stories, and more. Conceptualized, designed, and produced an annual report for United Way that received national recognition for its creativity and effectiveness in storytelling and visual communication. Started and currently run a photography and videography business, offering portrait sessions and creative visual storytelling for clients. A personally meaningful accomplishment: Raising three beautiful children
What else do you hope to accomplish by the age of 40?
I hope to significantly grow my videography skills. Not only to become a more effective storyteller for United Way, but also to enhance the way I tell stories through my personal photography business.
Current City
Watervliet
Place You Were Born
St. Joseph, MI
What was your first job?
My first job was as a bagger at the Watervliet Harding’s when I was 16. To this day, I still take pride in how quickly and efficiently I can bag groceries!
What’s the best advice you ever got?
We make time for the things that matter most to us, so be intentional with the time you have.
Who inspires you most?
My friend Rachel is a huge inspiration to me. She serves those around her with her whole heart and consistently leads by Christ’s example. She sees the needs of others and lives out what it means to truly die to self. She has a gift for encouraging people, especially during difficult times, and she’s always the first one to show up when someone needs support. I’m also continually inspired by my husband, Kris. Especially his ability to learn anything he sets his mind to. I’m in awe of his determination to keep growing and educating himself, no matter the challenge. His support has been a constant in my life, and I truly don’t think I would be the person I am today without his encouragement to pursue whatever I feel called to do or become.
That one thing about you we’d be most surprised to learn.
I took dance from the age of 4 through my first year of college. I also loved marching band in high school and was very involved in color guard. It was one of my favorite activities and something I still miss to this day. For someone who is naturally introverted and shy, dance and color guard played a big role in helping me express myself creatively and develop a love for performing.
What do you love to do in your downtime?
I love spending time with my family, though with three kids, the term ‘downtime’ is used loosely here! I also enjoy working out and going for runs whenever I get the chance.
What book are you reading now?
I’m currently reading Made for People by Justin Whitmel Earley. In a world facing an epidemic of loneliness, the book offers a powerful reminder that we were made for relationships, and that we need people. One line that stood out to me is, “A friend is someone who knows you fully and loves you anyway.”
Volunteer activity you love the most.
I love using my photography to capture events for my church. It’s a way I can give back by helping tell the story of how God is moving in our community and by creating lasting memories for our church. I also enjoy using my photography to support my friend’s women’s ministry podcast by providing images for her marketing.
What motivates you to give back to your community?
As a Christian, I feel strongly motivated by Christ to support those in need around me. Giving back is a meaningful way for me to use my skills and talents to bring Him honor and glory. Matthew 20:28 “even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
What Superpower would you most love to have?
If I could have any superpower, I’d love to clone myself into at least three people because then I’d know at least one of me is getting a nap.
What would you like to leave behind as your legacy once you are gone?
I hope my legacy is that I was a woman who loved God deeply, a devoted wife and mother, and someone who genuinely loved others well. More than anything, I want to be defined by a lifetime of walking hand in hand with Jesus.
What does the honor of being named to the 40 Under 40 most mean to you?
I’m truly overwhelmed and honored to be named a 40 Under 40 winner. There are so many incredible people doing meaningful work in their communities, and to be recognized among them is deeply humbling. I’ve been surrounded by talented, inspiring individuals who lead by example and have encouraged me to grow beyond what I thought was possible. Any success I’ve had is a reflection of their belief in me, and I’m so grateful for the people who have walked alongside me, pushed me, and shaped me into who I am today.
