by Sophia Pasquariello -  Amy Ashmen, a dedicated IABC Philadelphia board member, currently serves as the national director of communications at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.

Amy’s career in communications began with a leap of faith—moving from New Jersey to San Francisco. She started freelancing at a local newspaper with hopes of becoming a reporter. However, inspired by her grandfather’s advice that “every company needs a communicator,” she shifted her focus to corporate communications, a change that sparked a passion for the field.

With years of experience across industries, including insurance, travel, and nonprofits, Amy brings knowledge and experience to her current role at Devereux, one of the country’s largest nonprofit behavioral healthcare organizations. In this position since 2016, she has managed public relations internal communications, branding, websites, social media, marketing communications, videography, etc. Amy also supports Devereux’s initiatives on related Servant Leadership and diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

As a leader, Amy emphasizes kindness, compassion, and humor – characteristics she strives to bring to her daily work. Her commitment to professional growth is clear in her long-standing involvement with IABC, an organization she describes as extremely valuable for communicators seeking knowledge, networking, and inspiration.

Amy offers the following tips to those starting in communications: “Stay curious, ask questions, and find people who know your worth… and will champion your professional development.” Her journey in communications reflects this drive to grow and inspire others, and we’re lucky to have her leadership and expertise on the IABC board.