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activism through
research.
A Little Research. A Lot of Purpose.
I am Ashley K. Parks, MS, FNP-BC, a nurse practitioner, social science researcher, educator, and PhD candidate. My work explores the intersection of health equity, stigma, and the lived experiences of Black women. With nearly two decades of experience spanning primary care, critical care, emergency medicine, education, research, and regulatory affairs, I believe the best healthcare solutions begin by listening to the people who experience it.
My research focuses on the evolution of the Strong Black Woman schema across generations and its influence on health and well-being. Whether I'm leading research initiatives, writing scholarly manuscripts, publishing magazines, building brands with purpose, or shaping conversations around health equity and social change, I am passionate about turning ideas into impact and using evidence as a catalyst for advocacy, innovation, and meaningful change.
HEALTH EQUITY
BLACK WOMEN & FAMILY HEALTH
POPULATION HEALTH
HEALTH POLICY & POLICY ENGAGEMENT
SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH
HEALTH COMMUNICATIONS & EVIDENCE TRANSLATION
CANNABIS POLICY & JUSTICE
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A Question Worth Answering.
Current research studies exploring lived experiences, health, and the questions that deserve a closer look.
This study explores how Black women experience mental strength and resilience and its implications on health behavior. Our goal is to better understand the meaning and expression of mental strength across different age groups over time. We will learn this by interviewing Black women Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Millennials.
credentials behind the curiosity.
Education, experience, and perspective inform how I approach research, health equity, and public health.
Research can inform the conversation. The right conversation can change what happens next.
TURNING EVIDENCE INTO ACTION.
CONSULT
Research-informed strategy for organizations working in health equity, research, communications, policy, and community engagement.
FACILITATE
Interactive workshops that turn complex public health issues into meaningful discussion and practical action.
SPEAK
Keynotes, panels, and conversations on health equity, Black women's health, cannabis policy, population health, and research-informed advocacy.
sometimes I Send Newsletters
(Don’t worry, not that many)