Ashford Hughes Sr. (he/him) is the executive officer for diversity, equity and inclusion at Metro Nashville Public Schools. Ashford and his team design initiatives to support the district’s academic, social and emotional needs. Previously Ashford served as the chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer for the city of Nashville and Davidson County. He has been a senior political staffer and consultant contributing to numerous issue-based campaigns across several states. Ashford is a member of Prince Hall Masonic Lodge #104, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. and My Brother’s Keeper Nashville Network.