Rush County, and RCCF in particular, is lucky to have a deep pool of wonderfully talented and generous folks who were born and raised here and decided to stay put. Laura Ash, new board member, belongs to this group.

Laura grew up in Milroy with two brothers and a sister. She was raised by her “hard working, well-liked, faithful” parents, Verl and Margie Clemmons. “They gave up so much for me and my siblings to be involved in our community. We may not have had much, but we did not even realize that. My parents always made sure that we had meals together, went to church together, were able to be involved in sports, band, 4-H and many other things,“ recalls Laura. Although her dad passed several years ago, her mom is very much a part of her life. “My mom is still there for us in everything that we do! I am blessed and thankful that she is still here for me to talk to every day and to give me and my kids advice, love and support!” It’s no wonder that Laura considers her parents to be her heroes.

In 1988, Laura married Rob Ash, a New Salem native. They raised their three daughters, Katelyn, Kelsi and Kourtney in Mays. Just like her mom, Laura made sure her daughters had the same opportunities that she did. They each completed 10 years of 4-H and were Girl Scouts with mom as their leader. Today, Katelyn manages a bridal shop in Indianapolis. Kelsi lives in Rushville and works as an auditor for the State. Kourtney lives at home, attends Ivy Tech and is a corrections officer in Pendleton. The family ties don’t end there, the Ashes have a pack of fur babies, too – Laura and Rob’s handsome golden lab, Krosby; Katelyn’s cat, Kolby; and Kelsi’s pup, Knox. What a krew! Laura loves spending time with family and friends. You can find them sitting by the fire, having dinners, and traveling together.

Laura has been employed by the insurance industry in one way or another for more than 30 years. She just celebrated her five-year anniversary with McGowan Insurance Group. Having her office in the Rush County Chamber of Commerce building in downtown Rushville is a perk she loves. “I enjoy working with the public and helping those in my community protect their assets and their families,” she shared.

Just as she cares for her community professionally, you can find Laura in many volunteer roles, too. For several years she’s been the leader of the Lucky Sodbuster 4-H Group. She serves as secretary of the Center Township Trustee board. She also helps out at St. Mary’s food pantry. “I love being a part of Rush County! It has been a wonderful place to raise my girls. I love how everyone pitches in, in times of need.” She sets a great example, doesn’t she?!

“I have always loved the RCCF for its scholarship giving,” she continued. “My kids have benefited from scholarships and developed friendships along the way.” Laura began serving on the Grants Committee in 2019. “It has been an absolute pleasure to see first-hand how much RCCF helps our community in so many ways. I was so very honored to be asked to join the committee. Then when I was asked to be a part of the board, I was truly humbled and extremely honored! This was the one board that I have always wanted to be involved with,” she smiled.

“I really do not think people truly realize the good that the Foundation does for all of us in Rush County! Being able to create a legacy for a loved one is amazing and does so much good. These are forever feelings of cherished memories and love. Seeing all the wonderful work that those involved have done and are contributing to definitely warms my heart.”

It warms our hearts to have such a caring new member on our board. Welcome, Laura!