Empath Health is proud to celebrate our Community Partnership Specialist, Ashley Sard, who has been selected as a 2025 Spirit of Community Award Winner by the Florida Commission on the Status of Women. This distinguished honor recognizes women throughout Florida who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service and dedication to strengthening their communities.
The Florida Commission on the Status of Women is a governor-appointed, nonpartisan board established in 1991. The Commission is charged with studying and reporting on issues that affect women across the state and highlights individuals who embody a strong commitment to community impact. Being named a Spirit of Community honoree places Ashley among a select group of women recognized statewide for making a measurable difference in the lives of others.
As an Air Force veteran with 15 years of service, Ashley brings lived experience to the work she does every day. In her role, Ashley builds and sustains the relationships with community partners throughout the Suncoast region that help Empath Health reach the people who need us most, including veterans, families navigating aging and serious, chronic or terminal illness. "I carry that mission forward through outreach, education, and advocacy," Ashley shared, "working to ensure every veteran is seen, supported, and never forgotten."
She consistently demonstrates reliability, compassion, and a deep belief in building strong, positive relationships with community stakeholders. Her dedication reinforces the mission of Empath Health and strengthens our ability to support those we serve.
On March 2, Ashley was honored at the Spirit of Community Awards Luncheon in Orlando, where colleagues, family members, and leaders from across Florida gathered to celebrate the 2025 recipients.
Ashley's award is a reminder that the work of connecting communities to compassionate care doesn't go unnoticed. Please join us in congratulating Ashley on this well‑deserved honor.