Testimonials
In their words: working with Ascend AI NOW™
Leaders, collaborators, and partners on what it is like to put human judgment at the center of AI decisions.
“It takes a lot to impress me, and Dr. Alexis S. Smith did. I have watched her build Ascend AI NOW™ with the mind of an architect: clean, intentional, and designed so people understand the problem before they ever see the solution. She puts governance at the helm of everything she does, and it shows in her work, her academy, and the way she shows up as a collaborator. As an Authorized TAIMScore™ Assessor and a partner on The Human Signal briefing, she brings real-world scenarios to the table that make leaders stop and think about what happens when the system says no. If you need someone who can translate AI governance into decisions people can actually act on, start with Dr. Alexis S. Smith.”
LinkedIn recommendations
From colleagues, leaders, and the people she has mentored
“It is my pleasure to recommend Dr. Alexis Smith, a highly qualified and exceptionally skilled AI instructor whom I have had the privilege of knowing professionally for more than fifteen years. Throughout our longstanding professional relationship, Dr. Smith has consistently demonstrated mastery in artificial intelligence instruction, paired with a rare blend of patience, persistence, and genuine commitment to her clients’ success.
Dr. Smith has an extraordinary ability to guide individuals through the complexities of AI tools and strategies, ensuring they not only understand the technology but can confidently apply it to achieve their desired outcomes. Her instructional approach is both supportive and empowering: she meets clients where they are, yet skillfully challenges them to grow, innovate, and elevate their capabilities.
For professionals and organizations seeking to expand their marketing efforts through the power of AI, I wholeheartedly recommend Dr. Smith. Her expertise, integrity, and dedication make her an invaluable asset to anyone ready to enhance their digital strategy and unlock new levels of performance.”
Dr. Joanna AbramProfessional colleague for more than 15 years“Alexis is an amazing leadership and professional development partner within our Rotational Development Program at Blue Cross NC as well as our Blue Xchange Mentorship program at Blue. She has brought mentorship, employee development, career inspiration and motivation to each engagement where we have both been in attendance or participants within. She is a natural coach and motivator to technical and non-technical people seeking career growth. She has inspired many in her time at Blue. I recently saw her engage in a virtual event where she has shifted perspective of remote and hybrid employees across the company, providing a fun, informative format and those working on campus providing a creative, live-interview format. She has made Blue Cross NC a fun place to work since knowing her. Alexis has been a true partner with HR and Employee Resource Groups such as TechNow, bringing creativity and passion into each project assigned.”
Samantha KellyColleague, Blue Cross NC“Alexis Smith is a visionary who knows the technology field from top to bottom. She has transformed the Bullock County School District into a 21st Century Learning Center. Her grant writing skills were instrumental in securing over $6,000,000 in funding to purchase 21st Century technologies for every classroom in the district. Additionally, she saved the district funding by providing much of the professional development for administrators and teachers. Ms. Smith’s efforts have enabled the children who attend the Bullock County Schools to have technology as good or better than any school district in the nation!”
Dr. Keith StewartSuperintendent, Barbour County Schools · Former direct supervisor“Alexis Smith consistently delivered solution designs that met Blue Cross NC critical business needs. Her technical aptitude is matched by her creativity, energy, and strategic foresight. These qualities that have been instrumental to the success of initiatives such as Empowerment Unleashed and the Tech Now Employee Network. Her contributions to these programs will continue to have a lasting impact on Blue Cross NC and the communities that we serve.
Alexis played a pivotal role in the planning sessions, helping to craft strategies that balance immediate community engagement with long-term sustainability. Her ability to think holistically and collaborate effectively is a hallmark of her leadership style.
What truly sets Alexis apart is her empathy and dedication. She consistently shows up not only as a colleague but also as a mentor and friend to many, me included. Her unwavering commitment to excellence and community reflects the values we should all strive to uphold as leaders. In fact, she’s the type of leader that I aspire to be.”
Dedrick Moone, PMP, PSM, LSSBBSourcing and Vendor Management Leader · Colleague, Blue Cross NC“Alexis Smith is a powerhouse of positivity, purpose, and people-centered leadership.
Her “can-do” attitude is more than a catchphrase, it’s how she shows up every day. Alexis leads with intention, bringing out the best in her team through encouragement, clarity, and a deep commitment to collaboration. Her energy is infectious, and her passion for creating inclusive, empowering environments is felt by everyone around her.
One of the things I admire most is her active role in advancing Women in Leadership. Alexis doesn’t just talk about representation; she lives it. She mentors, advocates, and creates space for others to rise, making a lasting impact across the organization and beyond.
Working with Alexis means being part of something bigger: a culture of trust, growth, and shared success. She’s the kind of leader who makes you believe in what’s possible, and then helps you get there.”
Shibu MajeedHealthcare technology leader · Senior colleagueShared from Dr. Smith’s LinkedIn recommendations.
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