About
Alton Ashy
Alton Ashy established Advanced Strategies nearly two decades ago. As the firm's president, Alton brings a wealth of knowledge, a strong work ethic and sharp business insight to his projects. He began his professional career as a legislative staffer working for both the Louisiana Senate and House of Representatives and quickly transitioned into governmental relations representing clients including Louisiana State University. Alton’s ability to quickly assess an issue and develop a winning legislative strategy has helped Advanced Strategies achieve great success for its clients over the years.
Cheryl England
Supporting ASI’s success is Cheryl England, the firm’s office and administrative manager. She is an integral part of the team and serves as project manager, scheduler and communications coordinator. As a veteran of the Louisiana House of Representatives staff and executive assistant to two Speakers of the House, she brings more than 25 years of governmental experience to the firm. Cheryl attended the University of Southwestern Louisiana and earned a degree in Finance from McNeese State University.
Grant Roberts
Grant Roberts joined Advanced Strategies with a strong background in governmental affairs, public service, and community engagement across Jefferson Parish and the Greater New Orleans region. He previously served on staff with the Jefferson Parish Council, where he worked closely with constituents, coordinated with multiple departments, and supported policy initiatives and public communications efforts. Grant also brings prior experience in government relations from his time in Baton Rouge, where he assisted in advocating on behalf of clients at the state level. He is a member of the Leadership Jefferson Class of 2025 and a Fellow of the Institute of Politics at Loyola University New Orleans, where he has further developed his expertise in public policy, leadership, and civic engagement. With deep roots in Louisiana and a lifelong connection to public service, Grant is known for his practical approach, strong communication skills, and ability to navigate complex governmental processes. His understanding of local and state government positions him to deliver strategic, results-driven solutions for clients, making him a valuable addition to the Advanced Strategies team.
Kristie Cross
Kristie Cross is an accomplished legal and public policy professional with over 25 years of experience in government affairs, legal counsel, and legislative strategy. With an extensive background in policy development, research, and strategic communications, she serves as a trusted advisor to clients navigating complex regulatory and political environments.Kristie’s career is deeply rooted in advocacy. She helped found Cross & Co. LLC alongside her husband, former Louisiana State Senator Mike Cross, and later served as General Counsel for Louisiana Family Forum, providing legal guidance on key policy issues and organizational initiatives.She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and a Juris Doctor from the LSU Paul M. Hebert Law Center, where she was a member of the Law Review and the prestigious Order of the Coif. Known for her integrity and insight, Kristie is committed to delivering thoughtful, effective solutions for both clients and organizations.
Skip Clark
Skip Clark is a Mechanical Engineer with advanced degrees in Industrial Management and an MBA, bringing decades of experience at the intersection of large-scale infrastructure, energy, and regulatory environments. A member of Who’s Who in Business (2004), Skip has the unique ability to communicate complex regulatory and policy information to diverse stakeholders. He has led complex industrial and modular construction projects across shipbuilding, power generation, and federal initiatives.He played a key role in the development of the AP600 nuclear power plant with Westinghouse, focusing on regulatory approval strategy, cost efficiency, and safety design—providing him with deep familiarity navigating Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) processes. Skip’s experience includes managing high-profile projects such as the prototype prefabricated Power House construction for erecting a complex, remotely sited Hydroelectric Station, as well as the modular design of NASA Launch Platforms, coordinating multi-stakeholder efforts across government, industry, and logistics. With direct oversight of contracts, compliance, and business development, he brings a practical, results-driven perspective to government relations, with a strong understanding of regulatory frameworks, public-private partnerships, and policy impact on major infrastructure and energy projects.
