When Ashley Smith, MBA, BSRT(R)(CT), joined St. Dominic’s in 2001, he wasn’t sure if his future lay in nursing or radiology. What he did know is that he wanted to be in healthcare.
“I walked into radiology and told them I was looking for a job,” Ashley recalls. “The assistant director at the time pretty much hired me on the spot.” That moment set the course for a career defined by service, leadership and a deep commitment to the mission of St. Dominic Health.
Stronger Together: A New Era for St. Dominic Health
Now the senior director of neuroscience and diagnostic imaging services at St. Dominic Health, Ashley has spent more than two decades dedicated to patient care. As St. Dominic’s continues its evolution into St. Dominic Health, he’s excited about what the future holds.
“We’re now part of something bigger,” he says. “With FMOLHS, we have more resources for our patients and more opportunities for growth as professionals. We’ve expanded beyond Mississippi — we’re part of a regional health system now, reaching Louisiana and beyond.”
For Ashley, that unity brings strength. “We’re all in this ministry together,” he says. “We have friends in Baton Rouge, Monroe and across the system, and that connection allows us to provide even better care.”
Why He Stays: A Mission That Matters
Through the changes and transitions, one thing has remained constant for Ashley.
“What’s kept me here is the mission,” he says. “St. Dominic’s has always had a leg up when it comes to patient care. We strive for exceptional care, and that’s something I didn’t always see in other places.”
For Ashley, the heart of St. Dominic’s mission is found in servant leadership. He points to the sculpture of Jesus washing Peter’s feet at the hospital’s entrance.
“That’s what we’re about. Everything flows from that — reverence and love for all of life, joy, and all our values. It’s who we are.”
He’s seen firsthand how faith and medicine come together at St. Dominic’s.
“I’ve been able to pray for people in my church family and other friends who find themselves in the hospital,” he says. “Being able to serve beyond just medical care, to serve the whole person, is what our mission is all about.”
Ashley has also witnessed moments of healing that defy explanation.
“I’ve seen patients with no hope receive a different diagnosis days later. I’ve prayed for people and seen them get better. To me, that’s what defines Catholic healthcare. God’s hand is with us in this work.”
A Symbol of Commitment
One of the symbols Ashley holds close is the Tau, which is now part of St. Dominic Health’s logo and serves as a reminder of both the organization’s mission and his own faith.
“I keep one in my office. We’ve given them to patients, and I believe it represents who we are — a Christian organization that cares about all people,” Ashley says.
For Ashley, being part of St. Dominic Health isn’t just a job. It’s a lifelong commitment to something greater.
“When I first started, the Sisters blessed my hands, and I remember looking at them thinking, ‘This is bigger than me.’ Every action I take makes an impact. That’s what keeps me here.”
As St. Dominic Health’s healing ministry continues, Ashley’s dedication remains unwavering.
“We’re here for our community,” he says. “We have families here, and you’re our family. We’re here for you.”
For St. Dominic’s, the transformation to St. Dominic Health is more than a symbol. It’s our commitment. Learn more.
