On Monday, September 30th, Na’Asia Ausley, the new CFO for Eastern PA, stepped confidently into her new office. While many colleagues got stuck in traffic and arrived late, Ms. Ausley was right on time and ready to begin this new opportunity.
She moved through the day with grace and poise, winning staff over at lunch with her warm and upbeat spirit. She shared stories about how she loves to spoil her younger siblings by taking them out, giving them treats, and wearing them out so they return home tired and ready to sleep.
After lunch, we sat down to chat and get to know her even better. An edited and condensed version of that conversation can be found below.
We’re so glad you’re here! Can you tell us the story of how you got to this role?
I graduated from La Salle in 2016 from their dual BS/MBA program. From there, I worked with one of the Big Four accounting firms, but I soon realized I wasn’t doing anything for anyone. I wasn’t fulfilling my purpose. I came back home and took a different route—I did executive administrative work for the Juvenile Justice Commission. I wanted to make a difference.
From there, I went into the NJ Department of Human Services, and I realized, “I want to know that I’m helping people, that I’m fulfilling my purpose, that I’m doing something meaningful.”
I found this position, and when I looked at the values and what the conference stands for, it was all about people. Even during my interview, the bishop said, “We are in the people business.” I thought, “This is where I need to be.”
I have so much respect for you as an accountant. Numbers make my eyes go squiggly! What drew you to a career in finance?
It started in high school. I was really good in budgeting class and wanted to budget. I always tutored and helped other kids with math. I loved math; it’s my favorite subject. By senior year, we had accounting classes—intro to accounting—and I did great in that. I started as a marketing major because I knew I wanted to do business, but something told me I was good at accounting, so I should pursue it.
What brings you to life outside of work?
Family. My family and my close friends. I call them “framily” because they are like my extended family. I love them so much. My family always laughs because I’m always doing something for someone in the family. I’m always running around. I love them and just want to do anything for them to help them succeed. My family poured so much into me. I had a great childhood, and that foundation helps you get through the hardest times in life.
That foundation makes a huge difference.
It makes a huge difference. It literally determines your values too.
A whole lot of people loved you into being, and it made all the difference.
Yes.
So, speaking of values, what values do you bring into your work?
I’m a big proponent of communication. Communication helps everyone move forward and reach their goals.
God first. We should do things correctly and in a way that honors Him. If we do things the wrong way, or just for ourselves, it never ends well. It actually hurts more than it helps.
I’m trying to set an example at the top—be a leader and communicate, finding common ground with others.
What excites you most about the work ahead at the Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference?
It’s refreshing with everyone being new—new ideas and new mindsets. Everything we do will take us to the next level. It’s going to be fresh and purpose-driven. We’ll all be thinking, “Hey, I want to leave my mark on this.” We’re starting with a clean slate and fresh minds. There are people who have been here forever, but they are so welcoming of this fresh renewal. I felt a spirit of renewal when I came here.
I’m excited about that.
I’m excited to see what we will all accomplish together. I can’t wait for that.
That feels good. That feels really good in my heart. I love that.
Thank you.
It’s a new season. A new beginning.
I feel like God brought us here at this particular time for a reason. We don’t know what huge things we might do or what impact we might have—how many lives we might change. I’m just ready for that.
I’m excited.
Me too.
Is there anything else you want to share with the people of Eastern Pennsylvania as you get started in this new role?
I welcome all prayers over me at this time. I thank everyone who has reached out to me or prayed for me without me even knowing—those who want to support me. I’m very open to any help or feedback anyone wants to provide. I appreciate everyone’s prayers and well-wishes.
Welcome to EPA, Ms. Na’Asia Ausley! We’re so excited you are here. If you’d like to welcome Ms. Ausley, you can reach her at nausley@epaumc.church.