Her Story: When Ashley Andrews was crowned Miss Rodeo America 2007, she was the second North Dakotan to win the title. The Bowman native and University of Mary alum excelled in rodeo, debate and public speaking, but she may be best known for her battle against cancer during her reign as Miss Rodeo North Dakota 2006.
IW: People may be wondering, do you still get check-ups for your cancer?
AA: I just finished my five year mark, so I don’t have to go to in anymore, I am cancer free!
IW: You have a new last name, so you have had some changes in your life…
AA: I was married Sept. 27th, 2008. My daughter, Hadley, is 15 months old and I have a little boy on the way. I am also the Executive Director of the Bowman County Development Corporation.
IW: In your first article, there was a hint that politics might be in your future. Is that still a possibility?
AA: Right now I oversee many aspects of business and community development in the city of Bowman and Bowman county. I don’t know if I will run for office, but I enjoy the parts of my job that allow me to be part of the policy making process.
IW: What are some of the goals you have accomplished since your reign?
AA: During and after my reign I did a lot of public and motivational speaking. I talked about real life, cancer awareness and keeping a positive attitude. Since my daughter has been born, I haven’t had time to do a lot of that, but I hope to again someday.
IW: What is the best piece of advice you can give to women?
AA: A few things, in reflecting on my situation: Everything happens for a reason; God only gives us as much as we can handle; Something good comes out of every bad situation.
Being a cancer survivor, I know it is not death sentence, it is a new beginning in a lot of ways.
IW: Who Inspires You?
DN: I have a big family, so I think my parents and older siblings, we are very close. Outside of my family, Sister Thomas Welder has always been one of my role models.
Ashley’s Favorites
Movie: P.S. I Love You (especially if you want to bawl for 2 hours straight)
Book: I don’t really have one, but I am self-help book guru.
Quote: “Opportunity is often missed because it’s dressed in overalls and disguised as work.” ~Thomas Edison