About Us
Person First Consulting, LLC is a strategy-driven consulting firm rooted in political advocacy, macro social work, and transformational leadership. We empower clients to lead with integrity, equity, and vision.
In a world where politics, nonprofits, and governance can become cold, extractive, or performative, the person-first approach is a radical act of remembering:
That people are the point.
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This approach is not soft - it’s strategic.
When we build movements, campaigns, or institutions around real people, they last longer, resonate deeper, and do more good.
Mission Statement
To center humanity in strategy, advocacy, and leadership. We believe that people deserve to be seen, heard, and empowered — and that effective consulting must prioritize lived experience alongside technical expertise.
Vision Statement
A world where public institutions, political campaigns, and boards serve with equity, compassion, and strategy rooted in justice.
Our Values
Integrity
Liberation
Humanity
Learning
Joy
Guided by ethics, transparency, and accountability.
Committed to systems change and equity.
Centering lived experience and real relationships.
Growing with humility, reflection, and curiosity.
Celebrating the wins, the people, and the purpose.
Founder Bio | Ashley Stewart
Ashley is a seasoned campaign strategist, political advisor, and consultant with a deep commitment to public service and community empowerment.
Ashley is the Campaign Strategist at EveryLibrary and former director of the Caseyville Public Library District in Illinois. She was an elected Trustee for the Collinsville Township and served on the advisory council for Madison County’s Community Services Block Grant during her four-year term. She recently served on the Illinois Library Association’s Committee for Public Library Standards.
In addition to her work in libraries and public service, Ashley is a member of the American Association of Political Consultants and brings experience as a political consultant and advisor. She has worked on candidate campaigns and served on several local boards and committees. She graduated from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville with both a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree in Social Work.
Ashley has led or supported campaigns at every level - from local boards and municipal offices to state legislative races and congressional campaigns. Her work as a political advisor and consultant has earned her a reputation for strategic thinking, inclusive organizing, and values-driven leadership.​
In addition to campaign strategy, Ashley is highly sought after for board development, organizational training, and public speaking. Her experience includes facilitating trainings for elected officials, nonprofit boards, and advocacy organizations. ​
Ashley’s consulting philosophy is rooted in a person-first approach - centering people, communities, and justice in all aspects of political strategy and organizational development.
Past Roles & Experience
Collinsville Township | Trustee | 2021-2025
Madison County, IL | Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) | Advisory Council | 2021-2025
​ILA Legislator Meet-Up Coordinator for the Metro East
ILA iREAD Committee
Village of Maryville | 2021 Comprehensive Planning Committee
CMC Rotary Club | Past Vice-President & Secretary
CUSD 10 | Kahoks Connect Social Emotional Coach
CUSD 10 Planning Committee