MBA Education Path to Diversity Scholar Profile: Ashley Wheatley
One in a continuing series of profiles of participants in the MBA Education Path to Diversity (P2D) Scholarship Program, which enables employees from diverse backgrounds to advance their professional growth and career development.
–Tell us about yourself
Hello, I’m Ashley Wheatley, a proud resident of Detroit, MI. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Tennessee State University and completed a Business Essentials certification in Financial Management and Data-Driven Decision Making through Spelman College’s virtual program.
My career in the mortgage industry has spanned several roles, from folder receive processor and underwriter to administrative assistant. For the past six years, I’ve been a User Acceptance Tester (UAT) and am now the UAT Lead at Gateless, Inc., where we enhance lending processes through intelligent automation.
My most recent ventures include motherhood and co-authoring a Christian children’s book with my mother called “My Holy Trinity”, which is available on Amazon.
–How did you learn about the MBA Path to Diversity Program? What inspired you to become more involved?
One of my mentors, Lizzie Turner, encouraged me to explore the MBA resources available to me as a member, to further advance my career and deepen my knowledge of the mortgage industry.
–Did you find the application process to be user-friendly?
The application has been UAT approved—if I may say so myself. It’s functional and visually user-friendly.
–How has the Path to Diversity scholarship benefited you, personally and professionally? What have you been able to bring back to your company as a result of the Path to Diversity program?
The Path to Diversity scholarship has been instrumental in funding a portion of my Certified Mortgage Banking (CMB) certification. Starting in January, I plan to enroll in a CMB Prep Course through MBA to prepare for the CMB exam. While I have substantial experience in mortgage servicing, I aim to deepen my understanding of the client application process prior to origination underwriting, to build a comprehensive, end-to-end knowledge of the mortgage industry.
–What would you say to someone considering applying for a Path to Diversity scholarship?
I would recommend researching every opportunity that advances your career, and if the time is right, pursue the opportunity as well.
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About the MBA Path to Diversity Scholarship Program
The Path to Diversity Scholarship Program recognizes existing industry professionals who are seeking to advance their careers through continuing education. Recipients receive a voucher to cover course registration fees, up to a maximum of $2,000, for popular MBA Education courses and designation programs. This education opportunity enables employees from diverse backgrounds to advance their professional growth and career development.
MBA recognizes that a strong, responsible and sustainable real estate finance industry requires a workforce that is reflective of our society at large.
For more information about the Path to Diversity Scholarship Program, click here.
