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Arizona Burn Foundation Welcomes Longtime Board Member Ashley Hower as New Board Chair

The Arizona Burn Foundation (ABF) is proud to announce the appointment of Ashley Hower as Chair of its Board of Directors. A longtime advocate and supporter of ABF’s mission, Ashley brings both professional expertise and personal passion to this leadership role.

As Chief Marketing Officer at Plexus Worldwide, Ashley leads global marketing strategy, brand development, and product innovation. With more than 20 years of experience in marketing and brand leadership, she has a proven track record of driving impact through strategic vision and community engagement.

Ashley’s connection to ABF runs deep. She has served on the board since 2023 and has been actively involved with the organization for over 14 years—championing fundraising efforts, advocating for burn prevention, and supporting ABF’s continuum of care model that helps burn survivors heal and thrive long after their initial recovery.

Her dedication to the burn community is also rooted in family. Ashley’s grandfather served as a fire chief in the Midwest for more than three decades—a legacy of service that continues to inspire her work today.

“It’s an honor to serve as Board Chair for the Arizona Burn Foundation, where I’ve been deeply involved for over a decade,” said Hower. “I’m continually inspired by ABF’s holistic approach to supporting burn survivors and their families—not just helping them recover but empowering them to thrive. I look forward to working alongside our board and leadership team to strengthen these programs, deepen our impact, and ensure long-term sustainability.”

Rex Albright, CEO of the Arizona Burn Foundation, expressed enthusiasm for the transition:

“Ashley has been a dedicated and influential member of our leadership team, and we are thrilled to welcome her into this leadership role,” said Albright “Her strategic mindset and mission-driven focus will be instrumental in guiding our future strategic direction and expanding our reach in the community.”

Ashley succeeds Eric Bergman, who served as Board Chair since 2023. Under his leadership, ABF achieved several key milestones, including the statewide expansion of client care services and the growth of inclusive prevention programs like the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Smoke Alarm Program. Eric will continue to serve on the board as Past Chair, ensuring continuity and support as ABF enters its next chapter.

To learn more about the Arizona Burn Foundation’s impact and programs, visit azburn.org.

 

Bretta Nelson

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