Founders
ABOUT | WHY RUNGRL | FOUNDERS | CONTRIBUTORS
Ashlee Lawson
Chief Executive Officer, RRCA-certified Running Coach
Hometown
Ann Arbor, MI (Go Blue!)
Favorite Race
The Speed Project
When I’m not running:
I’m probably still thinking about running and all the the ways I can use running to do the things I love: connecting good people and creating incredible experiences.
See also: listening to the latest Bardi bop.
Why RUNGRL
Representation matters. Black voices matter. Black women matter.
Jasmine Nesi
Chief Operating Officer
Hometown
Greensboro, NC
Favorite Race
Tar Heel 10 Miler
When I’m not running:
Sipping mimosas at your favorite brunch spot or supporting my sister circle.
Why RUNGRL
RUNGRL is the platform I wish I saw when I started running - an honest safe space to learn, grow, ask questions, be inspired and feel a sense of community in a sport where we're largely unexpected and underrepresented. By telling these stories, I look forward to changing the face of what your typical runner looks like and encouraging other Black women to confidently call themselves a runner, too.
Dominique Burton
Chief Partnerships Officer
Hometown
Port Washington, NY
Favorite Race
Navy-Air Force Half Marathon
When I’m not running:
You can find me on the football field snagging flags, in the pool teaching people how to swim, but most importantly trying to better the community I live in, and beyond as a criminal justice researcher. I enjoy traveling and meeting new people. My friends and family are life, so I’m always out and about trying to catch a good vibe, laugh and experience the most I can with the people I love.
Why RUNGRL
RUNGRL is a space to view Black women distance runners in all forms. The idea is that you will always be represented and will be able to relate to the stories being told, and have the resources available to be the best runner you can be.
Stephani Franklin
Chief Brand Officer
Hometown
Detroit, MI
Favorite Race
New York City Marathon
When I’m not running:
I’m digging for music, behind a computer screen or the muse for someone’s non-vegetarian-friendly joke; all while thinking about the calories I’m not burning while not running.
Why RUNGRL
RUNGRL is a space Black women never knew they wanted but is everything they need to push and commit to investing in and becoming their best selves.
Na’Tasha Jones
Chief Content Officer
Hometown
Richmond, VA
Favorite Race
Cherry Blossom 10-Miler (D.C.)
When I’m not running:
I’m writing, traveling or making delicious meals out of whatever is currently in my fridge.
Why RUNGRL
You only need two things to be a runner: a pair of sneakers and a commitment. RUNGRL is here to help you with everything else--information, inspiration and celebration of the Black woman distance runner.
Natalie Robinson
Chief Sponsorship Officer
Hometown
Burtonsville, MD
Favorite Race
Miami Half Marathon
When I’m not running:
By day, I work as Project Manager for a tech company. I enjoy traveling when I can, Netflixin (no chill), hitting music festivals, visiting local markets in search of good coffee, good eats, and IG worthy art murals. I love a good laugh and spending time with family and friends.
Why RUNGRL
RUNGRL is me, RUNGRL is you. RUNGRL is here to share your stories, celebrate you and illustrate that running is a sport that is within reach for Black women.