The Monthly Distinguished Production Associate for April
Discover Dunwoody is proud to name Ashley Saunders as the April 2025 recipient of the Distinguished Production Associate Recognition Program, an initiative created to spotlight the unsung heroes of the film and entertainment industry. These professionals play a critical role in bringing productions to life, yet their names rarely appear in the spotlight. Ashley’s story is a shining example of perseverance, passion, and a deep love for storytelling that has guided her career from day one.
Ashley’s journey into entertainment began with music. While studying Music Business Management at Belmont University, she interned with a brand manager in the industry and set her sights on a career in music. However, life had other plans. A family situation required her to step away from school, but the creative spark never left. A few years later, she found herself enrolling at Full Sail University to pursue film—a move that would ultimately launch a successful career behind the scenes. Her first role was as a production assistant on a low-budget movie in Louisiana, at a time when the state’s film tax incentives were just beginning to attract new projects. It didn’t take long for Ashley’s potential to shine. After working on two productions, she was offered a position as a Travel Coordinator. Although it was a new role for her, she had an interest in travel and was open to learning something different. Under the guidance of Production Supervisor Jen Wall, who remains a close friend and mentor to this day, Ashley found her niche in the world of film production.
In recent years, Ashley’s resume has expanded to include work with several major studios and a wide range of productions. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she spent three years working with Marvel Streaming, contributing to acclaimed titles such as “Werewolf by Night” and “Moon Knight.” From there, she collaborated with Warner Brothers on “Blue Beetle,” Amazon on “Grand Death Lotto” and “The Pickup,” Sony on “SNL 1975,” and New Line on “Flower Vale.”
While her professional accomplishments are impressive, Ashley also celebrates major personal milestones. Three years ago, she purchased her first home, which she now enjoys improving in her spare time. She began volunteering with Soldiers’ Angels, a nonprofit that supports military personnel, veterans, and their families by providing resources, comfort, and aid. Through volunteering with this organization, Ashley continues to find meaningful ways to give back.
Looking ahead, Ashley is eager to expand her creative horizons. She's drawn to the creative side of the industry and hopes to explore scriptwriting, directing, and even podcasting. She’s also interested in writing short stories, books, and columns.
Ashley Saunders is exactly the kind of professional the Distinguished Production Associate Recognition Program was created to honor—someone who has dedicated herself to the craft, continued to grow in every chapter of her career, and now serves as an inspiration to those around her. Discover Dunwoody congratulates Ashley on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for the invaluable contributions she makes to the world of entertainment.
For more information about Discover Dunwoody and to nominate yourself or someone you know for the recognition program, please visit WWW.DISCOVERDUNWOODY.COM/NOMINATION-FORM/
