Ashley Bernhard, who served as deputy chair of the Professional Squash Association from 2015 until 2017, is to be recognised for helping promote the sport ©PSA

Professional Squash Association (PSA) Board member Ashley Bernhard is set to be honoured at the organisation’s Women’s Leadership Award and Reception.

Bernhard served as deputy chair of the PSA between 2015 and 2017 and has pioneered the Tournament of Champions Women’s Squash Leadership Programme.

She has been strategic and fundraising advisor for US Squash, founded its US Open Women in Sports Day and is founder and chief executive of Haven Hill, a consulting firm specialising in marketing, fundraising, public relations, and strategic planning for events,

The 10th edition of the Women’s Leadership Award and Reception is scheduled to take place at the Yale Club in New York City on January 20.

This year's Women’s Leadership Award and Reception is set to celebrate women on and off the squash court ©PSA
This year's Women’s Leadership Award and Reception is set to celebrate women on and off the squash court ©PSA

Proceeds from ticket sales are set to support the PSA Foundation Women in Coaching Fund, which is due to launch this year with the aim of encouraging more women to participate in the game at a coaching and mentoring level.

The fund is expected to provide women with the opportunity to earn the key qualifications and give them a platform to inspire other females to be actively involved in the game.

"We are very excited to celebrate women in squash through this landmark 10th celebration, the legacy this event has had is truly inspirational," Adriana Olaya, head of the PSA Foundation, said.

"We also look forward to partnering with US Squash on the Women in Coaching Fund to develop and provide a platform for women at all leadership/coaching levels."