Final answer:
Ashley Rowley is engaging in the management function of leading by recognizing factory employees' outstanding performance through rewards at the monthly awards banquet.
Step-by-step explanation:
Ashley Rowley, as president of Autos-R-Us, is engaging in the management function of leading when she recognizes factory employees for their outstanding performance by presenting a plaque and a check for $100 at the monthly awards banquet.
The act of acknowledging employees' contributions and providing rewards aligns with the leadership aspect of management, which involves motivating, directing, and influencing the behavior of others in the organization to achieve company goals. Leading is distinct from other management functions such as organizing and controlling, and it typically involves communication with team members and encouraging employee engagement and morale, which in turn can increase productivity and lead to the achievement of organizational goals.