In this episode of Brighter Future: A Tangi Schools Podcast, Superintendent Melissa Stilley sits down with Ashton Lee, a proud Tangipahoa Parish graduate whose journey has taken him from Loranger Elementary and Loranger Middle to the IB program at Hammond High, and now to Washington University in St. Louis on a full scholarship.
Ashton shares how growing up in Tangipahoa helped shape his goals, how the IB program expanded his perspective, and what it was like navigating high school during both COVID 19 and Hurricane Ida. He reflects on getting involved at a young age, including serving on Superintendent Stilley’s original transition team as an eighth grader and speaking at the district’s first back to school rally.
Now double majoring in Political Science and Educational Studies, Ashton is continuing his passion for service through civic engagement. He played a key role in helping launch a Youth Advisory Council in Tangipahoa Parish, creating opportunities for student voices to be heard at both the district and school levels.
This conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership does not come from a title. It comes from a willingness to serve, speak up, and take action. Ashton’s story is one that will inspire students, educators, and our entire community to believe in the impact of youth voice and the future it can shape.
