Ashley Alvarado (MPAff '25) has been passionate about leadership and public service since childhood. Her journey began when she ran for Student Body President in elementary school, motivated by a desire to create a more engaging environment and be a voice for her classmates. Years later, as an undergraduate at Texas A&M University, she took another bold step by running for the Texas A&M Student Senate Liberal Arts Caucus despite having no prior experience in student government. Winning that election reaffirmed her deep-seated commitment to advocacy and policy change.
This passion led her to the LBJ School, where she sought to refine her policymaking skills and gain transformative experiences. She describes attending the LBJ School as "one of the best decisions I have ever made," emphasizing her growth as a public servant while learning from varied perspectives around her. She is scheduled to graduate in May 2025 and is prepared to apply her skills to real-world policy challenges.
Now, as one of the co-chairs of the 2025 Barbara Jordan National Forum (BJNF), Alvarado is eager to continue her legacy of service and advocacy. She credits the BJNF with broadening her perspective, challenging her to listen before speaking and fostering connections with people from all walks of life.
One of the events she is most excited about is the art show, ‘Art is Activism: Visions of Liberation,’ an idea inspired by a visit to the Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C. “The purpose of this is to expose guests to how activists have used various art forms to make tangible change in their communities and fight oppression,” she explains.
In organizing the forum, Alvarado and her fellow co-chairs have been intentional about centering Barbara Jordan’s values in every event. From the immersive classroom experience to the art show, they have worked to ensure that Jordan’s legacy is reflected throughout the entire forum.
She encourages participation through volunteer opportunities for LBJ students who would like to get involved. Volunteers will have the chance to work at events and truly be a part of the BJNF team.
Barbara Jordan remains a guiding force in Alvarado’s life, embodying the resilience and strength she aspires to emulate. "Every time I think of Barbara Jordan, two words come to mind: unconventional and powerful," she says. "She commanded every room she entered and demanded respect from everyone. This is exactly what I aspire to be in every aspect of my life."
As she takes on this leadership role, Alvarado hopes to channel Jordan’s unwavering dedication to justice and public service, ensuring that the 2025 BJNF continues to inspire and impact the LBJ community and beyond.
Learn more about this year’s BJNF and see the full schedule of events here.