Ashley Johnson

With a passion for writing and people, and telling their stories, Ashley Johnson always knew that journalism was the career path she wanted to follow. So, it was inevitable that God’s path would lead her to the New Pittsburgh Courier, America’s Best Weekly, in 2007. Ashley began her career with the Courier as the Editorial Assistant and was later promoted to Associate Editor. As the Associate Editor, and a Staff Writer, additionally, one of Ashley’s many responsibilities included compiling information for and the writing of “Under Attack By Us,” a monthly series reporting Allegheny County’s homicides and how they impact the community. While under her direction, the series received local and national coverage.

In March of 2016, Ashley decided to make a change and joined United Healthcare as a Clinical Administrative Coordinator for its Community and State division. While she enjoyed her time there, her heart was always with the Courier and working closer with the community. In August of 2016, she rejoined the Courier staff as the Advertising Coordinator and, in 2021, was promoted to Sales Director. In her position, she not only deals with the publication’s print and digital display advertising sales, but she also plays an intricate role in the planning and execution of major events, such as the Men of Excellence, Women of Excellence and FAB 40 Under 40 Award ceremonies. She also represents the Courier in various capacities.

While with the Courier, Ashley has received two Pittsburgh Black Media Federation awards; was a recipient of the Young, Gifted and Black award and a recipient of the Stop the Violence-Pittsburgh’s Celebration of Life award; and several other honors.
Ashley is a proud graduate of Penn Hills High School and Point Park University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Print Journalism.

In her spare time, Ashley enjoys serving the community. Currently, she serves as a member of the Board of Directors for Urban Academy of Greater Pittsburgh Charter School; the Pitt News Advisory Board for the University of Pittsburgh; and the Pennsylvania NewsMedia Association Board of Directors, where she serves as the chair of the DEI Committee. She is also a member of the Spirit of King Awards Ceremony planning committee. Additionally, she is a graduate of the Class of 2022 Pittsburgh FBI Citizen’s Academy.

In addition to serving the community, Ashley enjoys sharing her love for fashion and helping women look, and feel, their best through her work as a Stylist for Lane Bryant, where she has been dedicated for more than 10 years. She also cherishes spending time with her friends and family and attending social events and performances. She is truly grateful to God for all He has done and continues to do!