Zooming In is a new monthly feature that allows coworkers to get to know one another by going beyond the surface level through facilitated discussions that delve into personal interests, experiences, and aspirations. Through intentional engagement, Zooming In aims to cultivate a sense of community and camaraderie across our company, ultimately contributing to a more cohesive and fulfilling remote workplace culture. If you would like to volunteer, or would like to nominate someone for Zooming In, please contact CorporateCommunications@magellanhealth.com.

This month we’re Zooming In on Ashley Sanders, marketing manager, public sector. Ashley began her marketing career in the financial industry working for a small community bank. In May 2016, she started her first job in healthcare at Magellan Health as the senior marketing communications specialist for Magellan Complete Care (MCC) of Florida. Ashley’s position was then shifted to Molina Healthcare, and after three years there, Ashley was quick to jump on an opportunity that brought her back to Magellan!

Ashley recently earned her Master of Business Administration from Louisiana State University – Shreveport. She also graduated cum laude and holds a Bachelor of Applied Science in business supervision and management from Miami Dade College. Originally from Miami, Florida, Ashley now lives in Richmond, Texas. Ashley enjoys do-it-yourself (DIY) projects, bowling, and volunteering in her community.

Continue reading to learn more about Ashley:

Why did you want to come back to work at Magellan Health?

Magellan has always held a special place in my heart. Leaving Magellan was unfortunately out of my control because my position was shifted to Molina Healthcare when it acquired MCC. I worked with Molina for almost three years and was so excited to hear a marketing management opportunity became available at Magellan. I really enjoyed my time working at Magellan in the past, especially under the marketing team. We were a small, but mighty team. Having the opportunity to work with such a great group of people again and being able to use some of the marketing knowledge I gained from the MBA program at Louisiana State University Shreveport on a management level was what really got me excited to come back. Also, just knowing the work we do makes such a huge impact in the lives of others and how we are committed to providing healthcare services to people who need it the most really tugs on my heartstrings and helps make the work I do meaningful and all worth it!

Do you have a favorite recipe you love to make (or have made for you)?

A recipe I enjoy making and get lots of requests for is peach cobbler. This was a special family recipe that was passed down to me from my cousin Paula. Our Sanders family peach cobbler is made with a lot of love and enjoyed by everyone! We typically make this dessert around holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas or anytime we’re gathered with family. Paula is such a patient, kind-hearted person who has made cooking a fun, loving and memorable experience. She taught me how to make peach cobbler when I was around eight- or nine-years-old and I’ve been making it ever since!

What’s your favorite way to use your paid time off (PTO)?

My favorite way to use my PTO is traveling to different states to visit family. I am a very family-oriented person who enjoys spending quality time and making unforgettable memories with family.

What is the farthest place you’ve traveled (or would like to travel to one day)?

The farthest place I’ve traveled to was Johannesburg, South Africa. It was an amazing experience I will never forget! I learned so much about African culture, was introduced to delicious and authentic cuisine, shopped at huge malls, shook hands with the African Zulu King, went on safaris and even got adventurous and pet a full-grown cheetah! I’m hoping to take another trip back to Africa in the future. It’s a place that is rich with so much culture, beautiful scenery, and wonderful people.

What is your self-care routine after the work week/favorite ways to unwind after work?

On Sundays, I treat myself to an at-home spa day. I give myself a manicure and pedicure, facial, massage, enjoy a nice relaxing bubble bath and curl up in bed with a good book while enjoying a hot cup of tea. I also write in my gratitude journal and take time to reflect on how far God has brought me in life and dream of where I want to be in the future.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

There are two pieces of advice that have stuck with me. My dad always told me from the time I received my first paycheck was to, “always save and put money aside for a rainy day because unexpected circumstances will happen.” This advice has come in handy so many times, especially as an adult. I put this into practice every time I receive any amount of money. The second is to, “forgive your younger self, believe in your current self, and create your future self.” Sometimes we tend to get downcast over some of the mistakes we’ve made when we were younger and thought we had life all figured out. It’s important that we give ourselves grace, forgive ourselves for regretful decisions we’ve made and move forward. I love this piece of advice because it helps us to shift our perspective and not dwell on the past but instead to have faith, believe in your current self that you are good enough and have what it takes to reach your goals and be the person who you want to be.