Ashley Stokes

Ashley Stokes serves as the Senior Philanthropic Advisor at UC Santa Cruz. She is responsible for advising campus leadership on strategic planning, coordination, execution, and monitoring of principal gift prospects. She also plays a key role in managing select senior volunteer boards for the university. 

Prior to joining UC Santa Cruz, Ashley served as the Director of Development, Principal Gifts and Strategic Initiatives at UC Davis, where she led the strategic direction for the university’s One Climate Big Idea initiative focused on environmental sustainability and justice. She also served on the Development and Alumni Relations (DEVAR) Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, working to promote a diverse, equitable, and inclusive organization by fostering collaboration and cultural understanding. 

Ashley, a Certified Fund-Raising Executive (CFRE), brings more than 17 years of experience in major gift fundraising, campaign planning, board development, and organizing specialized donor events. She has held roles at Old Dominion University and the University of Connecticut, showcasing her expertise in these areas. Ashley holds a bachelor’s degree from SUNY Albany and a master’s degree from the University of Connecticut. 

Continuing her dedication to assisting individuals in obtaining the essential resources to support remarkable initiatives worldwide, Ashley serves as a non-profit consultant, executive coach, and she collaborates with international NGOs focused on achieving the United Nations sustainable development goals.