The Asheville City Schools Alumni Advisory Board, supported by the Asheville City Schools Foundation (ACSF), plays a vital role in strengthening connections among alumni, current students, and our schools. Through leadership, collaboration, and community engagement, the board helps ensure that the spirit and legacy of ACS continue to thrive.
The board works collectively to:
Connect Alumni with each other by guiding the development of the Asheville City Schools Alumni Association, including newsletters, events, and networking opportunities.
Connect Alumni with current students and staff by creating meaningful ways for alumni to share their experiences, mentorship, and resources with future generations.
Connect Alumni to the campus by supporting the ongoing growth of the on-campus Alumni Center, a gathering place for reunions, student learning, and the preservation of ACS history.
Meeting quarterly, the Alumni Advisory Board serves as a bridge between the past, present, and future of Asheville City Schools, ensuring that the rich legacy of our alumni community remains a living part of our district’s story.
Interested in joining the fun? Click the button below.
For questions, contact James C. Carter, Director of Development & Alumni Relations at james@acsf.org.
chip howell, C/O 1997
Chip Howell is a proud member of the Asheville High Class of 1997 and an Asheville City Schools alum from kindergarten through graduation. Now a parent of two junior Cougars, Chip values the lessons, legacy, and community that shaped his ACS experience. As the owner of a local architecture firm, he focuses on projects that strengthen WNC communities through partnerships with regional nonprofits, community-based organizations, and school systems. His passion for workforce development and creating pathways for young people keeps him inspired to stay engaged with the ACS Alumni Advisory Board.
Cookie Fleming, c/o 1984
Coquitta “Cookie” Fleming is a proud member of the Asheville High Class of 1984. She loves staying connected with her classmates and helping organize reunions and class events. Cookie is the proud mother of three and grandmother of nine. She is active in her community through the Zeta Amicae of Asheville, NC of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and as a member of Nazareth Baptist Church. She currently works with Belk and is excited to serve on the Alumni Advisory Committee to help strengthen connections among fellow alumni.
jennie goldenberg, c/o 2012
Jennie Goldenberg was born and raised in Asheville and attended Asheville City Schools from kindergarten through 12th grade. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from UNC Asheville and, following a year of service with Children First/Communities In Schools of Buncombe County, earned her MSW from the University of Georgia. Jennie joined Asheville Area Habitat for Humanity in 2019 and now serves as a Development Officer, where she helps secure funding from government, corporate, and foundation partners. In her free time, she enjoys reading, baking, and spending time with her husband, family, and friends.
Kasiya Little, c/o 2019
Born and raised in Asheville, Kasiya Little is a lifelong product of Asheville City Schools—attending Hall Fletcher, Asheville Middle, and graduating from SILSA in 2019. She now gives back to the district as an Instructional Assistant at Ira B. Jones Elementary, where she’s entering her fourth year. Kasiya joined the Alumni Advisory Committee to help connect and inspire other ACS graduates. She believes deeply that “Asheville City Schools is truly the best!”
Leonard Jones, c/o 1998
Leonard E. Jones Jr. is deeply rooted in Asheville City Schools—as a student, parent, and lifelong supporter. He currently serves as the Community Engagement Specialist for Buncombe County Government and continues to stay connected as president of his graduating class. After earning his degree from UNC Chapel Hill in 2002, Leonard returned home to raise his family and later completed his master’s at Western Carolina University in 2014. He believes that supporting students and future graduates is key to keeping the legacy of ACS strong and thriving.
Roger Reid, c/o 2005
Roger Reid is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, and teen advocate dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders. As the founder and host of the 828 Elite Podcast, he uses his platform to inspire growth, purpose, and resilience in young people. Through his ventures and community work, Roger champions personal development and positive change, motivating others to reach their fullest potential.
Stephen Blount, C/o 2013
Stephen Blount is a proud 2013 graduate of Asheville City Schools and a lifelong Asheville native. After attending Asheville City Schools, he went on to earn his Bachelor of Science (’17) and Master of Arts in Criminal Justice (’21) from Mars Hill University. Deeply rooted in the Asheville community, Stephen has dedicated his career to public service and supporting local youth. When he’s not serving the community, he can be found sharing his musical talents at his church.
Tom Williams
Though not an Asheville City Schools alum himself, Tom Williams has been a foundational educator and builder of Asheville High School’s community and culture. He began his teaching career at South French Broad Junior High in 1981 and retired from Asheville High School in 2012, where he taught Film History and AP Art History. During his time at AHS, he also contributed to the design of the Arts Building, new cafeteria, and the renovation of the original building. Tom’s commitment to Asheville City Schools runs deep—his son Travis (AHS Class of 2002) and daughter Caitlin (AHS Class of 2007) are both proud alumni.