Ashley Berry
Director of Admissions
Office of Admissions & Enrollment Services
Email: aberry8@uca.edu
Office: Harrin 109
Phone: 501-450-5146
Ashley Berry serves as the Director of Admissions at the University of Central Arkansas (UCA), where she leverages her extensive background in student recruitment and support to enhance the university’s outreach and admissions processes. Ashley earned her Master of Science in College Student Personnel Administration from UCA and her Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from Mississippi College.
Ashley’s professional journey at UCA is a testament to her growth and dedication. She started as an Admissions Counselor, then progressed to Assistant Director of Recruitment from 2015 to 2019, where she oversaw campus tours, preview days, and the UCA Ambassador program. From 2019 to 2023, she served as the Associate Director of Admissions, managing all aspects of recruitment. Her experience also includes serving as an Admissions Counselor at Mississippi College in Clinton, MS.
With nine years at UCA, Ashley has significantly impacted the university’s admissions landscape. She overhauled the campus tour experience and managed the expenditure of the Donaghey Hall Welcome Center. As Assistant Director of Recruitment, she contributed to a 5% increase in first-time freshman enrollment from fall 2017 to fall 2018. Additionally, she developed several new event experiences for incoming students, such as the Admitted Student Open House, Central Arkansas Counselor Workshop, and Virtual Connections during COVID-19.
Following the launch of the UCA Commitment in 2023, Ashley’s focus is on educating the state of Arkansas about this debt-free degree pathway. She aims to change the narrative around the value of a college education and engage with key stakeholders to promote its benefits. Ashley is committed to fostering a culture of service, equity, and support for future students and their families as they navigate the college decision process.
Ashley’s belief in student success extends far beyond the classroom. She is a strong advocate for holistic development, emphasizing the importance of academic achievement and career readiness. She is committed to providing continual care and intentionality, a unique aspect that makes UCA stand out. As a first-generation college student, Ashley understands the challenges and intimidation that the post-secondary process can present. She finds fulfillment in being a testament to success for students who navigate college with doubt and discouragement.
When she’s not at work, Ashley enjoys spending quality time with her family, playing tennis, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. She firmly believes that maintaining a balanced and fulfilling life outside of work is key to performing at her best in her professional role.
Looking ahead, Ashley is excited about the growth of UCA Commitment students and their service impact on campus and in the community. She is also enthusiastic about the new Student Success and Veterans Resource Center, which will serve students in multiple capacities.
Ashley encourages students to be curious about the world around them, ask questions, engage in conversations with people who have different views, and maintain an eagerness to learn. She advises students not to be timid in seeking help when needed, embodying a spirit of continuous learning and growth.