Modern Military’s New Executive Director: Ashley Carothers

From Air Force service to national advocacy, Ashley is returning Modern Military to its roots: bold advocacy, grassroots action, and community-centered engagement.

Ashley is a devoted public servant whose career spans the military, federal government, and nonprofit sectors. With expertise in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), strategic planning, and community engagement, she has dedicated her life to advancing equity and improving outcomes for LGBTQ+ veterans and underserved military communities. As the new Executive Director of the Modern Military Association of America, Ashley is committed to strengthening community, taking on the fights that matter, and empowering LGBTQ+ service members and veterans.

Air Force to LGBTQ+ Advocacy

Ashley joined the Air Force straight out of high school during the era of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” While building expertise in logistics, she began volunteering with OutServe, Modern Military’s predecessor, supporting LGBTQ+ service members and their families. These early experiences shaped her lifelong commitment to fighting for equitable treatment for underserved service members and veterans.

A Lifelong Commitment to Public Service

After leaving active duty, Ashley served in civilian roles with the Army, American Red Cross, and Department of State. She became a national advocate for veteran’s rights and healthcare, standing on the steps of the U.S. Capitol to champion the PACT Act, landmark legislation expanding benefits and healthcare for veterans exposed to toxic substances.

Building Community Through Conversation

During her time serving with Minority Veterans of America (MVA), a partner Modern Military, Ashley hosted fireside chats: intimate discussions on identity, service, and healing. These conversations strengthened the LGBTQ+ military and veteran community, fostering trust and connection across the veteran network.

Driving Change at the VA

Ashley most recently served as a Strategic Planner in the Office of the Secretary at the VA, leading modernization and transformation initiatives. Previously, as LGBTQ+ Program Manager at the Center for Minority Veterans, she applied human-centered design to rebuild trust and improve access to care for minority and underserved Veterans.

Recognition and Courage

In 2024, Ashley was honored as Master of Ceremonies for National Veterans Day at Arlington National Cemetery, recognizing her leadership and dedication to the Veteran community. Later that year, she faced attacks from extremist Laura Loomer, who started a doxing campaign against Ashley. Despite the impact this had on Ashley’s personal and professional life, she used these challenges to strengthen her commitment to equity, inclusion, and justice for LGBTQ+ service members and veterans.

Returning Modern Military to Its Roots

Ashley’s journey comes full circle. Under her leadership, Modern Military is returning to its roots: bold advocacy, grassroots action, and community-centered engagement. She is committed to taking on the fights that matter most to LGBTQ+ service members, veterans, and their families, strengthening connections, and ensuring every Veteran has the support, voice, and community they deserve.