Ashton Meem, born on September 6, 1987, in Richmond, Virginia, is widely recognized as the first wife of NFL quarterback Russell Wilson. She grew up in Richmond with her parents, Molly and Lang Meem, who raised her with strong family values. Ashton attended St. Catherine’s High School, where her relationship with Russell Wilson began. Their bond, which started in high school, continued to flourish through their college years.
Educational Background and Career
After graduating from high school, Ashton enrolled at the University of Georgia. However, she transferred to North Carolina State University to stay close to Russell Wilson. At NC State, she pursued a degree in communications, which provided a foundation for her career in advertising and marketing.
Ashton gained practical experience in media marketing through internships at Lewis Media Partners and McKinney. In June 2010, she started working as an account executive for Morton Consulting in Richmond, Virginia. By August 2011, Ashton secured a role as an advertising operations assistant at American Family Insurance, a position she continues to hold today.
Marriage to Russell Wilson
Ashton married Russell Wilson on January 14, 2012, just a month before he entered the NFL as a Seattle Seahawks draft pick. Their marriage attracted significant media attention, largely due to Wilson’s rising fame in the NFL.
Divorce and Speculations
In April 2014, Wilson filed for divorce, ending their marriage after two years. The announcement shocked fans and media alike. Both Ashton and Russell requested privacy during the transition.
Rumors surfaced that an alleged affair between Ashton and Wilson’s then-teammate, Golden Tate, led to the divorce. However, both Ashton and Tate strongly denied these allegations. Tate directly addressed the rumors, stating, “I did not have an affair with Russell Wilson’s wife nor did I have anything to do with his divorce.” He dismissed the claims as “laughable” and “unfounded.”
Life After Divorce
After her divorce, Ashton chose to lead a low-profile life, focusing on her career in advertising. She continues to work for American Family Insurance in Raleigh, North Carolina. Ashton keeps her personal life out of the public eye, with no updates regarding her current relationships or activities.
Net Worth and Financial Standing
Ashton’s net worth is estimated to range between $2 million and $4 million. This figure includes assets and financial settlements from her divorce, as well as earnings from her professional career. Reports suggest the divorce settlement was among the largest in NFL history.
Public Perception and Media Attention
Despite her efforts to remain private, Ashton occasionally finds herself in the media spotlight. During the 2012 NFL Draft, her enthusiastic reaction to Russell Wilson being selected by the Seahawks went viral and became a meme. This moment resurfaces during draft seasons, reminding fans of her connection to the NFL star.
Conclusion
Ashton Meem’s life has often intersected with public interest due to her past marriage to Russell Wilson. However, she has successfully built her own identity as a professional in advertising, while maintaining a strong commitment to privacy. Ashton exemplifies resilience and the ability to navigate personal challenges without seeking the limelight.
FAQs
Who is Ashton Meem?
Ashton Meem is the first wife of NFL quarterback Russell Wilson. She is a communications graduate and works in advertising and marketing, currently with American Family Insurance.
When and where was Ashton Meem born?
Ashton Meem was born on September 6, 1987, in Richmond, Virginia.
How did Ashton Meem and Russell Wilson meet?
Ashton met Russell Wilson in high school at St. Catherine’s in Richmond. Their relationship began during their teenage years and continued into college.
Where did Ashton Meem go to college?
Ashton initially attended the University of Georgia but later transferred to North Carolina State University to be closer to Russell Wilson.
What does Ashton Meem do for a living?
Ashton works in advertising and marketing. She is currently employed as an advertising operations assistant at American Family Insurance.
When did Ashton Meem and Russell Wilson get married?
The couple married on January 14, 2012.
Why did Ashton Meem and Russell Wilson divorce?
Russell Wilson filed for divorce in April 2014. Although rumors of infidelity circulated, both Ashton and Golden Tate, who was implicated in the rumors, denied them.
What is Ashton Meem’s net worth?
Ashton’s net worth is estimated to be between $2 million and $4 million, which includes her earnings and the financial settlement from her divorce.
Where does Ashton Meem live now?
Ashton currently resides in Raleigh, North Carolina
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