Five Questions With Ashley Colwell, MS, FACU
Highlighting ACU Members Advancing Care in Underserved Communities
As part of ACU’s Five Questions With… spotlight series, we’re highlighting the dedicated ACU Members whose leadership and lived experience help advance compassionate, community-centered care. This series offers a closer look at the people behind the work, what motivates them, what they’ve learned, and why serving communities with the greatest need remains at the heart of their careers.
In this edition, we’re pleased to feature Ashley Colwell, MS, FACU, Vice President of Clinical Services and Workforce Development at the Illinois Primary Health Care Association (IPHCA). With nearly two decades at IPHCA, Ashley supports community health centers by advancing clinical programs and strengthening the workforce that serves them.
Tell Us About Yourself
I have been an active member of ACU for the past decade and currently serve on the Board of Directors and as Chair of the Membership Committee. I have been with the Illinois Primary Health Care Association (IPHCA) since 2006, where I support community health centers in addressing their clinical and workforce needs. In my role, I oversee initiatives spanning workforce development, oral health, behavioral health, substance use treatment, and chronic disease programming, helping ensure health centers are equipped to meet the evolving needs of the communities they serve.
Why Did You Choose to Focus on Caring for Underserved Communities?
Growing up in an underserved, rural area, I knew firsthand that patients often had to travel long distances to access services. Once I began working in the PCA/FQHC space, it became clear that this system of healthcare is not only impacting individual patients, but entire communities. Twenty years later, I cannot imagine another career and have been blessed to watch FQHCs expand, innovate, and put patients first.
“Twenty years later, I cannot imagine another career and have been blessed to watch FQHCs expand, innovate, and put patients first.”
What Motivates You in Your Day-to-Day Work?
As a non-clinician, I am inspired every day by the work of the clinicians and staff serving patients. My mission is to serve FQHCs to the best of my ability, and I am grateful every day that I get to do this work. Even though I’m not on the ground in the clinic, I approach everything I do through the lens that whether we are developing a program or posting a job, it’s an urgent need. I know that every service we provide or training we develop can ultimately impact a patient’s life.
“I am inspired every day by the work of the clinicians and staff serving patients.”
What Does ACU Mean to You?
ACU is a convener of organizations and individuals who are dedicated to serving others. It provides robust services and support to assist organizations serving vulnerable patients, saving lives, and improving the overall health of their communities.
What Would You Like People to Know About Underserved Communities and Their Health Needs?
I wish more people knew about the FQHC system and all the amazing services it provides. Underserved communities are unique, and FQHCs are positioned to respond to and serve those local needs. Whether a patient is facing transportation issues or food insecurity, there are supports built into clinics to help.
Get Involved with ACU
Ashley’s work reflects the critical role of workforce and clinical services leaders in advancing care for underserved communities. Her impact is felt through the programs she develops, the workforce she helps strengthen, and the systems she supports, ensuring clinicians and care teams have what they need to serve patients effectively.
Through its trainings, advocacy, and professional community, the Association of Clinicians for the Underserved brings together clinicians and leaders committed to expanding access to practical, compassionate care in communities with the greatest need.
Interested in getting involved with ACU? Learn more about membership, explore benefits, and discover opportunities to connect, lead, and grow within the ACU community.
