Archbiship Rembert Weakland, Ana Garcia Ashley, Archbisop Stanley Doland, Auxiliary Bishop Skilba pose after Awards Ceremony

The recipient must

• Have an outstanding record of involvement in one or more of the following: direct service, advocacy, empowerment, justice education.
   

• Have shown a public interest in working within the interfaith community on the above
   

• Have an ability to articulate Vatican II values to the Catholic community through word and action
   

• Have a practical and working approach to the Consistent Life Ethic

Ana Garcia-Ashley began her career in 1981.  After organizing The Concerned Citizens of Westwood, she went on to develop the Metropolitan Organization for People.  After graduating from the University of Colorado in Denver, Ana attended the Ilif School of Theology. 

She then began what would be her life’s work, and for nine years she served as the Senior Staff Organizer with the Gamaliel Foundation.  As she was born in the Dominican Republic, Ana’s experiences, both professional and personal, brought a much-needed passion and awareness to her position. 

Her journey continued as the Lead Organizer of MICAH—the Milwaukee Inner City Congregations Allied for Hope.  While in this position, her leadership in staffing led to a $500 million dollar reinvestment victory. 

She later went on to staff the development of the regional organization of WISDOM in Wisconsin, and became a national and international congregation-based leadership trainer. 

This care and concern for social justice continues today, as Ana is co-director of the Civil Rights for Immigrant Department of the Gamaliel Foundation, as well as the co-director of the East Coast Territory. 

A member of St. Martin de Porres, Ana’s faith drives her forward to continue to protect and establish the rights of the voices not always heard.

Based on material provided by
MaryAnn Vance, CFRE
Major and Planned Giving Director
Archdiocese of Milwaukee