Ashley Judd is a name that rings home for almost everyone that comes from any background. Her mother, Naomi Judd, and her sister Wynonna are famous for their lyrical talents on the country music stage. However, Ashley has become better known for her work in films and television.

Getting her start in the film industry at twenty-three years of age, she first appeared in a “Star Trek: The Next Generation” episode where she played as Robin Lefler. From here, she began playing in the “Sisters” series from which her career in the film industry has since spiraled. She is most noted for playing the in the stronger female roles in movies such as “High Crimes”, “Double Jeopardy” and, more recently, “Tooth Fairy” and “Crossing Over”. However, her career is only one aspect that lends to her very intriguing and driven life.

Through the years, she has been active in many humanitarian causes, the most notable of which is where she was named the global ambassador for YouthAIDS where she continuously tries to spread knowledge about AIDS prevention and treatment. Because of this she was named Hollywood Hero by USA Today in 2009. She has also been a spokesperson for the Defenders for Wildlife Action Fund and is a proponent of consistent humane treatment to all animals. Also, in May of 2010, Judd earned her Master’s in Public Administration from the John F. Kennedy School of Government (a Harvard institution).