Ashton Elpers

Champion of Champions 

Advocating for the student-athlete experience. 

As a student in multiple honors classes, a key player on three varsity sports teams including the Indiana State Championship softball team, and an active participant in school and community activities, Ashton Elpers benefits from what she says is a holistic education that extends far beyond her textbooks. While her demanding schedule requires a level of discipline that can be challenging to sustain, Aspen says that the life lessons she’s taking away from her many experiences is well worth the extra effort and countless hours of hard work. From developing leadership skills, to perfecting the art of active listening, to working well with others and discovering how to best manage her time, Ashton is continuously growing both on and off the field.

She’s also making a significant difference for her classmates, teammates, and community members along the way. “Being involved in these activities was not merely about building an impressive resume; it was about making a tangible impact in my school and community,” Ashton says. One way she does that is by focusing on making sure everyone feels connected and understands their value to the team. Within her sports teams, she takes the lead on creating team bonding activities. As student class president, she works to encourage greater participation in all types of school events. And as a nursing home volunteer, she helps residents tell their stories and preserve their legacies. “In a world where generational gaps can often isolate us from the wisdom of our elders, volunteering has been a bridge that brings generations together, fostering understanding, empathy, and a sense of community,” she says.

Ashton’s desire to recognize, encourage, and celebrate others was a key to helping her secure what she considers one of her greatest honors to date: being selected to serve on the Indiana High School Athletic Association Student Advisory Committee. Ashton is one of just 18 students tasked with representing the interests of 160,000 student-athletes spanning 407 schools across Indiana. “I have had the privilege of leading discussions, organizing events, and advocating for the needs of student-athletes,” Ashton says of the work she does to help positively impact the student-athlete experience in her state. “This journey has not only enriched my life but has also given me the tools and motivation to continue making a positive impact on the world around me.”