The University of Redlands Board of Trustees announced this week that Jamison (Jim) J. Ashby ’82 has been unanimously elected as the next Chair of the Board of Trustees. He assumes this role for a five-year term, effective July 1, 2021.

“I feel humbled and honored to serve our University in this new capacity,” says Ashby. “I love Redlands and will do everything in my power to ensure its promising future. I’m also excited to be working with our incoming president, Krista L. Newkirk, knowing that the University has many opportunities to thrive, with the support of our talented Board members, Cabinet leaders, faculty members, and benefactors.”

Ashby succeeds Leland C. Launer, Jr. ’77, who is pleased the University's new president and new Board chair will take office at the same time as a united leadership team.

“Jim has served on the Board of Trustees with distinction for almost seven years,” says Launer. “I have worked closely with Jim during his tenure and have great respect for his abilities. He understands the University, and I am confident that he will serve us all very well.”

A successful healthcare executive, Ashby is passionate about developing people, building teams, and growing purpose-oriented organizations that make lasting, positive impacts. He has served as CEO in three different multistate companies delivering services ranging from nursing and rehabilitation to his current endeavor, Nova Health, which focuses on urgent and primary medical care. He has also held top leadership roles in numerous for-profit and not-for-profit boards.

He began serving on the University of Redlands Board on July 1, 2014. As part of his service, he participated in numerous special projects and has held several leadership roles, including Chair of Academic Affairs, Second Vice-Chair of the Board, and Vice-Chair of the Presidential Search Committee. He also served on the Board of Directors of the Alumni Association in the 1990s.

Ashby resides in Camas, Washington, with his wife of 37 years, Donna (Johnson)’83. He enjoys spending time with family—including his four grown children—travel, reading, and golf. He graduated from the University of Redlands in 1982 with a double major in biology and Spanish. He also holds an MBA from San Diego State University.

For more information on the U of R Board of Trustees, see the Board web page.