Ashley Reynolds Marshall has been named the new Community Services Chief for the City of Savannah, with her appointment taking effect on February 16. The decision follows a national search to fill the position at the Community Services Service Center.
Marshall brings experience in local government, public health, and nonprofit leadership. Her most recent role was as Deputy City Manager for Social Equity and Chief Prosperity Officer in Charlottesville, where she oversaw departments such as Parks and Recreation, Human Rights, Human Services, Police Civilian Oversight, Social Services, Sustainability, and Social Equity.
“Ashley brings a rare combination of strategic leadership, deep compassion, and real-world experience working across complex community systems,” said Jay Melder, Savannah’s City Manager. “Her background aligns perfectly with Savannah’s priorities, and I’m confident she will be an outstanding leader for our Community Services Service Center and a strong partner to the neighborhoods we serve.”
Before her government work in Charlottesville, Marshall served as CEO of the YWCA of Central Virginia and Executive Director of Mental Health America of the Roanoke Valley. In these roles she led organizational changes and secured funding to expand community services.
Marshall holds degrees from Hollins University (Bachelor of Arts in Psychology), College of William and Mary School of Law (Juris Doctor), Virginia Tech (Master of Public Administration), and Yale University (Master of Public Health).
The Community Services Service Center is responsible for initiatives such as neighborhood revitalization programs, parks development, youth services, housing rehabilitation efforts, arts programming and other projects aimed at improving quality of life in Savannah.
Jay Melder also thanked Melissa Carter for serving as Acting Community Services Chief during the past five months. “I want to thank Melissa Carter, who has served as Acting Community Services Chief for the past five months,” Melder said. “Her diligence, passion, and dedication have helped keep this Service Center moving forward during a critical period, and we are grateful for her leadership.”
Marshall will join Savannah’s executive team when she begins her new role next month.
