Racing Toward a Future in Healing
Racing Toward a Future in Healing – Ashley Williams, Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy Student
“Do you want to race?” her dad asked in 2012, offering an opportunity to the girl who had already piloted everything from a small snowmobile to the family lawn tractor. Ashley Williams said yes, climbed in and never left.
Twelve seasons, two Rookie-of-the-Year awards and multiple track championships later, she now steers a non-wing sprint car across Midwest clay with her father still turning wrenches as crew chief.
“I always enjoyed being behind the wheel,” says Ashley, “Once we got my first race car and I hit the track, I discovered my passion and love for the sport. Since then, I’ve raced every chance I could get. Over the years, I’ve moved up through different classes, stepping into bigger, faster cars and sharpening my skills against tougher competition.”
A second, equally defining realization followed as Ashley started thinking about where to begin her college career. “I knew I wanted a healthcare career where I could make a difference in people’s lives,” Ashley says.
Bellin College’s Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy answered with the same spark of purpose that Ashley felt behind the wheel. Direct program acceptance, hands-on labs, and faculty who know every student by name convinced her that precision and compassion could share the same lane.
“When I toured Bellin College, it just felt right. I’m proud to be a part of a school that truly goes the extra mile,” said Ashley. “When I first learned about the field, something immediately clicked. I love the idea of not only providing treatment but also being a familiar, supportive face for patients throughout some of their most difficult moments.”
Between long weekends on the track and hours studying and working toward her degree, Ashley dives headfirst into her passions and has mastered balancing both.
“Racing demands a lot of time and commitment, both on and off the track, more than many people realize,” Ashley remarked. “From April through October, racing fills nearly every weekend. Each week, we perform routine maintenance on the car to ensure it’s in top condition and ready to compete. I am incredibly lucky to have my dad as my crew chief—he handles much of the work while I am away at school, which allows me to stay competitive at a high level.”
Ashley’s support stretches beyond her racing team at home in Elmo Lake, Minnesota. She has received multiple scholarships, including Bellin College donor scholarships, which ease tuition costs and allows her to focus on her studies, and even create on-campus organizations such as the Radiation Therapy Club.
“These scholarships have had a significant impact on my college journey, not only easing the financial burden but also opening up new opportunities,” said Ashley. “They have allowed me to focus more on my studies to pursue my academic goals, continue racing, have social and family time, and be an active part of the college community, without the constant worry of tuition costs.”
Ashley strives to support her college the way she has always felt supported. A fresh Bellin College decal on her sprint car signals a partnership that travels far beyond campus.
“Having the Bellin College logo on my race car and receiving their support means more to me than words can fully express,” said Ashley.
“Displaying it in such a prominent place offers a chance to introduce the college to an audience that may not have otherwise heard of it. It also allows me to proudly represent a school I deeply admire and hopefully inspire potential students to explore the amazing programs and opportunities Bellin has to offer.”
Before Ashley graduates in the spring of 2026 with her Bachelor of Science in Radiation Therapy, she will travel to Jacksonville, Florida, to complete her clinical and Ashley knows that the encouragement of her racing team and Bellin College will still be felt.
“The support from Bellin feels personal and genuine,” said Ashley. “And it drives me to give my best, both in the classroom and on the racetrack.”
