Ashley Tanner of Charlotte, North Carolina, has competed in Special Olympics for more than 23 years. Training in a variety of sports, she has become more confident in herself and has learned to advocate for others through Special Olympics. In the Special Olympics World Winter Games Turin 2025, she will represent Special Olympics USA in figure skating. To prepare for competition, Ashley trains with her coach, Tappie Dellinger, who she greatly admires for her supportive, understanding nature.
Following high school, Ashley enrolled in Project SEARCH, a one-year, school-to-work program for young adults with disabilities. She is an active volunteer with Special Olympics Unified Champion Schools® initiatives at Butler High School. Representing her state and her country is a dream come true, as she unites with Special Olympics athletes from across the globe who share similar hopes and dreams.