(MURFREESBORO) Ashley McDonald started Monday (9/16/2019) in her new position as Rutherford County Government's first public information officer and program coordinator.

County Mayor Bill Ketron explained, "This position was created to serve as a liaison to assist county government to more effectively communicate with media and the public and other personnel related to breaking news reports as well as long-term priorities."

Ketron noted that she will be creating marketing materials, press releases and data for county web sites and social media.

The county mayor said, "One of her first projects will be to develop and coordinate a comprehensive county-wide Waste Reduction and Re-cycling Program. It will include internal and external communications critical for raising awareness for these vital areas."

Prior to joining the Rutherford County team, Ashley served 7-years as public information officer for Murfreesboro Fire Rescue. Last December she was promoted to assistant PIO for the City of Murfreesboro, while still serving the fire department.

McDonald was with the City of Murfreesboro of 12-years.

She has a degree in public relations from Middle Tennessee State University.

McDonald presently serves as president of the National Information Officers Association, and will graduate from the Master Public Information Officer program in Maryland later this month. She also serves as PIO for the Tennessee Firemen's Association and the Tennessee Fire Chief's Association.

She enjoys a solid regimen of physical fitness, and is a part-time Les Mills Body Pump instructor at Gold's Gym.

Ashley McDonald and her 2-year old son Corley, enjoy life in Rutherford County.