Mississippi Transplant: Ashlee Kelly

"Being in Mississippi has made me empathetic, forced me to become authentic, and explore careers I never would’ve explored. I want to be a part of the solution, even if it’s a small part."

What does it mean to call Mississippi home? Why do people choose to leave or live in this weird, wonderful, and sometimes infuriating place? Today we hear from entrepreneur, podcaster, and New Orleans native Ashlee Kelly.

Featured contributor Ashlee Kelly.

Where are you from?

New Orleans, Louisiana.

When did you move to Mississippi and why did you move here?

I arrived in Jackson, Mississippi in May 2003 to attend Jackson State University and never left. 

What does “home” mean to you? How does Mississippi fit into that definition?

When I cross the state lines into Louisiana, I feel it physically. I automatically know I will see family, childhood friends, and get to relax. Although I’ve been in Mississippi nearly the same amount of time I was in New Orleans, Mississippi does not fit that definition yet. 

The author during her college days in Jackson.

What do you miss most about the place where you’re from?

I miss my family, the food, and festivals. 

How have you cultivated community in Mississippi? Who are the people who have made you feel rooted here?

My community has mostly emerged from my environments: school and work. Mostly my husband, because he refuses to move so I have no choice but to be rooted.