ABOUT

Ashley Stafford is a degreed cannabis science specialist and behavioral health professional with a passion for education, advocacy, and informed access. A proud native of Maryland’s Eastern Shore, Ashley blends her local roots with national expertise in cannabis therapeutics to serve individuals and communities with clarity and care.

Ashley earned her Master of Science in Medical Cannabis Science and Therapeutics from the University of Maryland, Baltimore’s School of Pharmacy—the first graduate program in the nation dedicated to the clinical and scientific study of medical cannabis. Through this rigorous and innovative curriculum, Ashley developed a deep understanding of cannabinoid pharmacology, therapeutic applications, potential risks, and the intersection of cannabis with both mental and physical health. Her training allows her to provide evidence-based guidance to patients, providers, and organizations navigating the evolving landscape of medical cannabis.

Before entering the cannabis field, Ashley built a decade-long career in behavioral health, working directly with individuals experiencing mental illness, substance use disorders, and housing instability in both Washington, D.C. and her home state of Maryland. Her work at Community Connections and So Others Might Eat (SOME) focused on client advocacy, harm reduction, and housing coordination—most notably with unhoused veterans.

Ashley is also a seasoned event producer and public educator. Her signature events, including Prohibition 420, Business Buds, and Cannabis 101, combine her creativity and cannabis expertise to inform, empower, and connect communities. Whether she’s leading a workshop, offering one-on-one consultations, or contributing to educational programming, Ashley’s mission is to make cannabis science accessible, credible, and community-centered.

She has developed educational materials for the DC Department of Behavioral Health and provided cannabis educational resources for events hosted by the Dorchester County Health Department. Through her work, Ashley continues to bridge the gap between science, policy, and public understanding.