Ashleigh Guerin’s path to Extension work started in rural South Georgia, where her interest in outreach and community education first took shape. When she transferred to UGA, she found an immediate sense of direction. Walking into Dawson Hall, she said it felt like home, and the courses she explored soon became the backbone of the work she does today.

After earning her degree in FACS Education and completing the online Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences – Community Nutrition program, Ashleigh joined UGA Extension, where her role is equal parts educator, advocate, and community partner. She works with families across Georgia, teaching small, practical skills that support everyday wellbeing.

In a video shared by UGA’s College of Family and Consumer Sciences, Ashleigh explains, “My job is to teach people about family, food, home, health, finance, and ultimately to build healthier communities throughout the state of Georgia.” Whether she’s leading a chronic disease prevention workshop, demonstrating exercise basics, or helping someone prepare their taxes, she sees every interaction as a chance to equip someone with knowledge that can change their day-to-day life.

“Each individual person comes from a different experience,” she says. “In my job, I get to empower people with the skills that they need to be able to go and live healthier lives… all of our programs have a direct impact on our community, and that’s one of the most rewarding parts of my job.”

Her story shows how the flexibility of online programs, like the M.S. in Community Nutrition, allow students and graduates to bring their training into the communities that need it most without sacrificing the quality of their education.

To learn more about the programs that shaped her work:

FACS Education: www.fcs.uga.edu/fdn/facs-education

Online MS in Community Nutrition: online.uga.edu/degrees-certificates/master-science-ms-nutritional-sciences-community-nutrition/

Watch the full FACS video to hear Ashleigh tell her story in her own words.