Ashlyn is going into her senior year of college and is studying political science, pre-law, and social work with a certificate in law, justice, and culture in the Honors and Margaret Boyd Scholars programs at Ohio University. Ashlyn is from a small village, Edgerton, OH, which is in Williams County. Ashlyn is currently interning with CASA for the 2024 summer semester.
What brought you to CASA?
I knew I wanted an internship that combined the best qualities of both of my studies, political science and social work, and CASA seemed like a perfect fit that allowed me to remain in court while also serving others as an advocate. I also want to practice child welfare law as an attorney in the future, so I knew CASA would be a great experiential learning opportunity for me.
Why is CASA important to you?
I understand that abused, neglected, and dependent children are especially vulnerable and need an advocate to represent their interests and needs in court. CASA is a vital component of the juvenile justice system and ensures that children’s rights are upheld, and I am so grateful for the opportunity to be an advocate and be a part of an agency that actively protects children and their rights.
What do you do outside of CASA?
Outside of CASA, I am the director of Ohio University’s Students Defending Students organization, an engagement ambassador for Ohio University’s Honors Program, a peer tutor, a Voinovich undergraduate research scholar, an occasional softball/baseball umpire, but most importantly, I’m a full-time aunt!
How do you wind down or spend your free time?
My free time is usually spent with family and friends, but you can often catch me at the Fun Barn watching a movie or on the golf course when there is nice weather! I also like to travel to try new coffee, book, or thrift shops.
What is something people may not know about you?
Something people might not know about me is that I’m a huge movie buff, especially older movies! I’ll watch anything if Joan Crawford or Doris Day are in it. My favorite movies would be It Happened One Night, Come September, Calamity Jane, Christmas in Connecticut, and Seven Brides for Seven Brothers. I just can’t choose one!
What is something you've learned recently?
Something that I have learned recently is that the Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act (CAPTA) has not been reauthorized since 2010. Although a new bill known as the Stronger Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act was introduced in 2021, the current CAPTA has not been reauthorized since 2016.
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