Native Mississippian and Vermont transplant, Ainsley was raised in a home that regularly welcomed stray dogs and cats, injured birds, and even the occasional baby squirrel. It was there that she developed a deep respect and love for the human–animal bond. She carries those values into her work with The Mitzvah Fund, where she supports the organization’s mission through grant writing and fundraising.Ainsley earned her bachelor’s degree in public policy from the University of Mississippi and works full time in affordable housing.She lives in Montpelier with her partner and their Mississippi-born pets, Chairman Meow and Princess.