Ashley Petersen
My name is Ashley Petersen, and I am a 3rd year Chemistry major at Villanova University. I am an Organic Chemistry Researcher, and Disability and Gender Equity Advocate. Furthermore, I am a Senator in Student Government and the Executive Vice President and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Coordinator of the Panhellenic Executive Board at Villanova University. 4 years ago, I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease and 2 years ago I began using my wheelchair. At first, this diagnosis caused me uneasiness, but I have gained valuable insight into my identity of invisible disability and have learned about the challenges others with disabilities face in my community. Despite the adversity I face daily, I have utilized my experience with Lyme Disease to further my advocacy work in this area.
ID: Ashley Petersen, a young cis-gender white woman with long blonde hair, wears a black top and plaid jacket with a gold necklace and earrings. She is smiling at the camera.