A lifelong believer in community, nature, and paying it forward.

We’re thrilled to welcome Andy Consuegra to the Ashokan Center’s Board of Directors — a leader whose life story, values, and passion for community beautifully align with Ashokan’s mission. Andy brings global experience, deep gratitude for the people who helped shape his life, and a heartfelt commitment to ensuring others have access to the transformative power of nature, creativity, and belonging.

Here’s a closer look at Andy’s journey and what inspires him to join Ashokan at this exciting moment.

Roots in Resilience

Andy is a first-generation American, born in Miami Beach to Cuban parents who had just fled the revolution and lost everything. Soon after, his family settled in central Connecticut, where his parents became teachers at the same boarding school his father had once attended.

Growing up on a school campus surrounded by forests, streams, dorms, and family-style meals made a lasting impression on him. When he first visited Ashokan — first at the Winter Hoot, then the Summer Hoot — something clicked.

“I felt at home from the very first visit,” Andy shared. “It was similar to how and where I grew up. A campus rooted in nature, education, and community. Even the shared meals reminded me of my childhood.”

A Global Career Shaped by Connection

Professionally, Andy has spent most of his career in international business, living and working across Brazil, Mexico, Latin America, and Europe. He has led large multinational corporations and has also built and sold companies of his own.

This blend of global perspective and entrepreneurial experience is matched by a grounded sense of gratitude — especially toward the people and organizations who helped his family rebuild their lives in the U.S.

“I’m very grateful to the many people who helped my family resettle. Some we never even met,” Andy said. “Supporting Ashokan, and especially Día de las Familias, is my way of paying it forward.”

Finding Purpose at Ashokan

Andy was drawn to Ashokan’s mission — not only what we do, but how we do it.

“The mission and the team culture are what inspired me to join the board. What Jay and Molly have built is incredible. I want to help strengthen that legacy.”

He sees powerful potential in the Center’s ability to inspire students through nature, music, art, and community — the same kind of environment that had a profound impact on his own upbringing.

While he believes in all aspects of Ashokan’s mission, one part resonates the most:

“For me, the most impactful element is nature. So many people never get the chance to truly benefit from being immersed in it — and in this era of climate challenges, access to nature is more important than ever.”

A Commitment to Community & Inclusion

Andy brings valuable strengths to the board: a global background, experience bridging cultures, and deep connections with communities that the Center hopes to welcome more fully.

“I’m hoping my understanding and connections within minority groups, particularly Hispanic communities, will help the Center reach more people and build a bigger, more diverse community.”

He looks forward to continuing his generous support of Día de las Familias — Ashokan’s bilingual, family-centered celebration of culture, nature, and joy — and hopes to help deepen its impact in the years ahead.

He’s also passionate about increasing local engagement:

“I love the area around the Ashokan Center, and there are so many residents who would appreciate what the Center does. I want to help inspire them to get involved.”

What He Hopes People Take Home

At the heart of it, Andy hopes that every child, family, and visitor who comes to Ashokan takes something lasting with them.

“I hope connecting with nature and a bigger community becomes a regular and constant part of their lives. It can truly change everything.”

Welcome, Andy

We’re honored to have Andy on our Board of Directors, and we’re excited for the perspective, energy, and heart he brings into this next chapter. His story — one rooted in resilience, gratitude, and community — reflects the very spirit of Ashokan.

Please join us in celebrating Andy’s deepening involvement with the Ashokan Center family!