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We are thrilled to announce that Ashley Rhodes-Courter has joined the See Agency roster.
Three Little Words
Ashley Rhodes-Courter is the quintessential American success story.
Born to a single teen mother, Ashley once lived in a 3 bedroom trailer with 16 other children - all of whom were beaten and starved on a regular basis.
She later lived with a convicted pedophile; for a time she lived with her alcoholic biological grandfather, during which time she witnessed him shot to death by a neighbor following an argument.
And these were the people the state of Florida had selected to pay to protect and house her.
In the 10 years after Ashley was taken away from her biological mother at the age of 3, she lived in 14 foster homes and attended 9 different schools.
And then, at the age of 12, the unexpected happened. Or as her New-York Times Bestselling memoir describes it: “Three Little Words”.
The words: "I guess so."
The question: "Would you like to make this adoption permanent?"
After nearly a decade of emotional torture, neglect, abuse, and suffering, Ashley was given a second chance at normalcy by a couple of Florida empty-nesters.
"I won't always be Little Orphan Ashley."
 Despite her ordeal, she excelled in school because she believed that, "my education was the one thing nobody could take from me."
Her efforts and academic achievements landed her Eckerd College’s Trustee Scholarship — the school’s most prestigious full-tuition award.
She graduated with honors (ahead of schedule) earning a double major in Communications and Theater, and a double minor in Political Science and Psychology.
Ashley then went on to earn a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Southern California.
Ashley was selected by USA Today All-USA Academic Team, named one of GLAMOUR Magazine's Top 10 College Women, voted 2012 International Woman of the Year by St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce, & ran for the Florida State Senate.
She has been featured on The Today Show, Good Morning America, Nightline, Nancy Grace, ABC Primetime.
Her story is currently being made into a major motion picture starring Reese Witherspoon and Amanda Seyfried.
Standing Her Ground
Early in her life she felt compelled to advocate for herself and the other children she lived with, particularly in the abusive foster homes.
It is because of a few teachers, volunteers and, ultimately, a wonderful couple that took a chance on a hurt and "damaged" kid that Ashley was able to break all odds and statistics.
"Three Little Words" has been adopted by schools and communities as part of 'One School, One Book' initiatives across the country.
Keynotes
Her story is a source of inspiration for professionals, parents, and youth around the world.
Audiences are reminded that, ultimately, it’s all about those one-on-one relationships; no one can go through life alone.
Her story is proof of what can happen when one person steps in to change or influence the life of another person.
Titles:
"Three Little Words: My Memoir"
"Making a Difference: How One Individual Can Change The Course Of Another"
"Re-framing Your Life: What’s Good About Bad Experiences"
"Keys to My Kingdom: School as Sanctuary; Teachers as Mentors"
Click here for keynote demo
For fee and availability:
bookashley@seeagency.com
630 945 3428
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Ashley Rhodes-Courter, MSW \ˈrōdz\
1 : NYT Bestselling author of "Three Little Words", based on her story & currently being made into a major motion picture starring Reese Witherspoon
2 : spent just under 10 years in foster care, shuttled between 14 homes, then graduated high school with high honors and full scholarship, later selected by USA Today All-USA Academic Team, named one of GLAMOUR Magazine's Top 10 College Women, voted 2012 International Woman of the Year by St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce, one of the four Golden BR!CK Award winners for outstanding advocacy for community change by Do Something. & ran for the Florida State Senate
3 : featured on The Today Show, Good Morning America, Nightline, Nancy Grace, ABC Primetime
4 : called a "a tremendous inspiration" turning "pain into power and productivity"; expert on overcoming adversity, women's issues, education, & youth advocacy
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