A native of Merritt Island, Florida, Dr. Rebecca Ashford is the first in her immediate family to graduate from college. She earned an associate degree from Brevard Community College (now Eastern Florida State College), then transferred to the University of Central Florida, earning a B.S. in English education.

Ashford planned to teach high school English. Working as a peer advisor while attending UCF instilled a passion for helping college students fulfill their dreams. After earning her bachelor’s, she worked as an advisor at Brevard Community College while completing her master's in higher education student personnel and Ph.D. in educational leadership, both from UCF.

Ashford assumed increasing responsibility in student services roles at Brevard Community College, serving as dean of educational services for two campuses, then as dean of enrollment management.

After completing her Ph.D., Ashford accepted the vice president of student affairs position at Broome Community College in New York. In 2008, she was selected as the vice president of student affairs at Pellissippi State Community College in Tennessee.

In July 2017, Ashford began her role as president of Chattanooga State Community College. Her main focus continues to be success and completion. Workforce development remains a top priority for president Ashford and for the college.

Ashford remains committed to serving the community and the higher education profession. She is a member of Leadership Tennessee Class VII; Chattanooga Chamber Board and Talent Committee chair; Chattanooga 2.0 Steering Committee; Enterprise Center Board; Helen Ross McNabb Board and Executive Committee; River City Company Board, Southeast Tennessee Development District; Chattanooga Tourism Co. Board; and the Rotary Club of Chattanooga.

Ashford is married with two daughters, ages 14 and 16.