About the Founder

Simply put, writing is Ashlei Williams’ passion. With a bachelor’s from Spelman College and a master’s from Northwestern University, she has been telling stories for business, philanthropic, minority and academic audiences for more than a decade.

A journalist by trade, Ashlei built her career in media innovation taking on roles ranging from editorial director to chief marketing officer. After gaining experience in business-to-business (B2B) publishing, Ashlei decided to put her skills to the test in consumer communications.  In one year, what started as freelance media relations and creative writing projects for a boutique marketing agency grew into a spread of services and clients, amid her moving across the country from the Midwest to the West Coast.

Things were shaken up, to say the least. And when the dust settled in 2016, Ashlei’s company, GJC Publicity, was born. Her expertise includes editorial, public relations, marketing, advertising and creative storytelling.

Ashlei is a graduate of NEXUS Leaders as well as a former member of the Girls Inc. of Memphis Board and Junior League of Memphis. She serves the community through The Memphis (TN) Chapter of the Links, Inc. and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.

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“The letters in GJC Publicity’s name are an homage to women in my family. Each color showcases their birthstone. The ‘G’ is for Gladys Williams, my paternal grandmother and a model of service and humility. The ‘J’ is for Jacquelyn Ross, my maternal grandmother and an example of poise and assertiveness. And, the ‘C’ is for Cheryl Ross-Williams, my mother and reminder to always unapologetically be myself.”

- Ashlei Williams, Founder & President, GJC Publicity