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Read about alumni achievements and more in the Fall 2012 issue of the official Ashford University alumni magazine.
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04/ TECHNOLOGY CHANGES EVERYTHINGAshford is letting the world know what we stand for.
MY COMMENCEMENT DAYA 2012 graduate shares her experience.
ASHFORD GIVES BACKStudents and alumni participate in Make a Difference Day.
SOCIAL MEDIA CORNERA Facebook photo submission proves “The World is Your Campus.”
Inside This Issue
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ISSUE 05 / Fall 2012
2012 GREAT Award winner Debra Stewart is among the many Ashford students and alumni using their education to achieve their career dreams.
DREAM JOBS05/
Faculty SpotlightRecent accomplishments of Ashford faculty members.
16/Ashford’s Career ServicesHelping make dream jobs a reality for many Ashford alumni.
12/ Campus NewsAn athletics season recap and the scoop on Optional Practical Training.
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17/ASHFORDCONNECTIONS AU Alumni Magazine
2 / Ashford University / ashford.edu
CONTENTS / AU Alumni Magazine
03/
CONTENTS
WELCOME LETTERby Andrew Shean
TECHNOLOGY CHANGES EVERYTHINGAshford University has embarked on its first-ever national advertising campaign, letting the world know who we are and what we stand for.
WHAT IS YOUR DREAM JOB?No matter what your current job may be, it’s important to stay focused on your passions and goals. Here’s how!
DREAM JOBS / THE ENTREPRENEURSDebra Stewart started Picture Yourself Stronger, Yolanda Grant opened Y Grant Consultants, and Wayne Shems helped launch M2 Renewables.
DREAM JOBS / THE POLITICIANSJeffrey Lehart and Denise Bacon are hot on the campaign trail in an effort to make a real difference in their communities.
DREAM JOBS / THE CREATIVESSinger songwriter Josh Damigo releases his sophomore album while Aaron Powell pens a novel.
MY COMMENCEMENT DAYby Maria Jackeline Pena-CavalliniOne graduate reflects on the Ashford experience in her own words. Plus: A gallery of images from the event.
ASHFORD’S CAREER SERVICESAlumni are making use of Ashford’s Career Services to land their dream jobs, while employers utilize the Hire A Champ program to attract qualified Ashford alumni.
STUDENT ATHLETES COLLECT ACADEMIC HARDWAREby Chris Shaw2011-12 was another ground-shaking year for the Ashford University Athletic Department, not only outside of the classroom, but inside as well.
HOW FAR WILL YOU GO?by Mandy AldridgeAt Ashford’s Iowa campus, Optional Practical Training gives some international students the opportunity to gain valuable professional experience.
FACULTY SPOTLIGHTA recap of just a few of the many accomplishments and awards recently bestowed to Ashford faculty members.
ASHFORD COMMUNITY GIVES BACKby Vanessa SchoenherrAshford University’s first Make a Difference Day. Plus: Operation Care Package.
CLASS NOTES / SOCIAL MEDIA CORNERLearn what recent graduates are up to, and check out this month’s featured Facebook photo submission from active Army student John Hrachovina.
PROGRAM LIST
ASHFORD CONNECTIONS IS PUBLISHED SEMI-ANNUALLY BY ALUMNI RELATIONS.
Editor: Lorelei Meetze PlotczykArt Director: David DickeyContributors: Andrew Shean, Doug Downing, Michael Mussman, Ian Foster, Ron Gaschler, Larry Libberton, Lizzie Wann, Leonard Pollard, Kelly Cisek, Sarah Bilyeu, Tamara Small, Vanessa Schoenherr, Joseph Allen, Mandy Aldridge, Jay “Jaybird” Conner, Chris Shaw, Maria Jackeline Pena-CavalliniDesigners: Brent Field, Jesse CaverlyPrint & Mail Production: Jason Mandell
BELOW LEFT: Current Ashford student Marquitta Tracy attended April’s commencement to support her husband Gary Tracy, Bachelor of Arts in Social Science, Education concentration, 2012. BELOW RIGHT: Graduate Beverly Bynum, Bachelor of Arts in Health Care Administration, 2010 and Master of Arts in Organizational Management, Health Care Administration specialization, 2011, is an entrepreneur and children’s book author.
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ACHIEVEMENTBELONGSTO ALL OF US
SHOP FORAPPAREL • ALUMNIACCESSORIES • SALE ITEMSASHFORD.EDU/GEAR-SHOP
12AUAL1295 • AC-0255 • PRINTED 8/12
12AUAL1295 AU Connections Gear Shop Ad Issue 5 Fall 2012.indd 1 7/31/12 9:57 AM
Fall 2012
ISSUE
05
/3Ashford Connections / Issue Five
/ WELCOME LETTERAU Alumni Magazine
I continue to pursue this disruptive innovation
in my role at Ashford; I am committed to creating
opportunities for people to pursue higher education.
Technology enables us to provide rich and robust
educational experiences for traditional students
as well as adult learners. We, at Ashford University,
are leading the way in online learning. The future is
limitless. We have the potential to transform lives
and prove that knowledge truly is everywhere, for
everyone. That is why we remain dedicated to our
mission – to define the modern college experience
and make dreams a reality for those who want to
seize it.
And we can, because technology changes everything.
Sincerely,
Andrew Shean
Executive Dean of the College of Education
Ashford University
Dear Ashford students and alumni,
Welcome to this issue of Ashford Connections!
It is a true honor to serve as Executive Dean for
our College of Education. In this position, I am
responsible for academic, curricular, and co-
curricular policies, as well as the academic programs,
within all of Ashford’s online degree programs
in Education.
You may have recently seen Ashford’s new advertising
campaign to bring greater awareness about who
we are and what we do. (Check out one example
when you turn this page.) One of the mantras is
“Technology Changes Everything.” It really does!
I saw this firsthand when, before joining Ashford,
I served as the leader of online learning at Poway
Unified School District in Poway, CA. We developed
an online program aimed at helping students who
had dropped out of high school return to school.
Many of these students came from disadvantaged
homes and had to work full-time jobs to support their
families. By combining the power of technology with
some creative thinking, we brought education to
them. Since then, the school district’s dropout rate
decreased to 1.9% – a phenomenal achievement.
However, this new model of schooling did not come
without challenges. There were a lot of hurdles
to overcome in order for people to understand how
this new medium could help many students realize
their dreams.
Welcome Letter: Andrew Shean
ANDREW SHEANExecutive Dean of the College of Education
Technology enables us to provide rich and robust educational experiences for traditional students as well as adult learners.
4 / Ashford University / ashford.edu
TECHNOLOGY CHANGES EVERYTHING / AU Alumni Magazine
ASHFORD UNIVERSITY HAS
embarked on its first-ever
national advertising campaign,
to the delight of members of
our community everywhere
who have noticed the television
commercials and print ads.
We are letting the world
know who we are and what
we stand for. Our message is
simple: technology changes
everything.
AS YOU YOURSELF MAY
have experienced at Ashford,
we are harnessing technologies
to deliver engaging curricula
in a progressive way. We
have developed proprietary
learning platforms that connect
our students to a vibrant
learning community, but most
importantly, to a place where
they can feel they belong.
NOT ONLY DOES ASHFORD
provide online courses, we
keep evolving new tools for
our students like Constellation
and the mobile applications.
And we will continue to evolve
so that our current and future
students can connect to their
studies and to each other.
TECHNOLOGY HAS ALREADY
transformed so many areas of
your life as an Ashford student
or alumnus. How has earning
or pursuing your degree
changed you? Let us know at
NATIONAL ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN DEBUTS
TECHNOLOGYCHANGES
EVERYTHING.TM
IT’S CHANGED THE WAY WE READ BOOKS,
LEARN SPANISH, FIND LOVE.
WHAT IF TECHNOLOGY COULD CHANGE THE WAY
YOU EARN YOUR COLLEGE DEGREE?
WHAT IF YOU COULD FIND A WAY TO
ACCESS KNOWLEDGE, GROWTH AND SUCCESS?
THAT WOULD CHANGE EVERYTHING.
THAT WOULD CHANGE YOU.
COPYRIGHT © 2012 ASHFORD UNIVERSITY400 NORTH BLUFF BLVD. CLINTON, IA 52732 AC-0255ASHFORD.EDU/BELONG
DOWNLOAD THE JUNAIO™ APP AND SCAN EACH FACE TO SEE HOW.
/5Ashford Connections / Issue Five
/ DREAM JOBSAU Alumni Magazine
Unless you’re a multi-billionaire, chances are you
probably daydream about your ideal career path.
But dream jobs don’t usually happen overnight. It
typically takes a long time and a lot of work to build
a great career. If you are committed to finding the
job of your dreams, it helps to define what a perfect
job looks like – not only in dreams, but in reality. You
can start by identifying the specifics of your most
satisfying and rewarding career.
Maybe you want to work with people you respect
and who challenge you to do your best. Don’t expect
to encounter them suddenly in your first interview!
Instead, you have to build those close relationships
over time. Partnership and collaboration can make
almost any job rewarding and fun.
Perhaps you’re the artistic type, like The Creatives
on page 9. Maybe a cool work environment would
help unleash that side of you. Do you fantasize about
a foosball table in the break room? What color would
you paint your office walls? If your company won’t let
you to decorate the office to your taste, try beginning
with your cubicle or desk. If you have some extra
space, see if you can persuade upper management
to let you designate a “chill room” that you and your
team can decorate freely.
For some people, the ideal career is one that includes
a lot of travel. If your current job keeps you planted
in one place, consider searching for conferences,
seminars, and networking events that are relevant to
your industry. A three-day industry convention can
give you a perfect reason to get out of town, experience
another city, and learn valuable lessons to take back
to the office. Of course, the opposite may be true for
you, especially if you seek a healthy balance between
life and work. You could explore opportunities
closer to home by working or volunteering in your
own neighborhood. The Politicians on page 8 are
a good example of people making a difference in
their communities.
For some people, the goal is to earn more money. But
those same people often undervalue themselves, or
they are afraid to request the kind of compensation
they deserve. If you’re relatively new to the workforce,
or if you’ve never negotiated your salary, there are
resources available to you. Do some research and
find out how much people in your field typically earn.
Find a professional coach or a mentor. Most of all,
remember that your income does not represent how
many degrees you hold or how long you’ve worked.
It should be a reflection of the value you provide to
your workplace. A generous salary can be yours, if
you know what your work is worth.
Others want a big-sounding job title. Who wouldn’t
love to have their title begin with “Chief” and end
with “Officer”? If this is your goal, keep in mind that
positions like these will give you the power to make
decisions and influence the world around you. You
must have the desire and the drive to make your work
matter. It’s true that titles like these usually come
with a generous salary, but remember that when you
truly love what you do, the title and salary hardly
matter. The Entrepreneurs on page 6 have managed
to find a way to make money doing what they love.
To sum up, a big salary, lots of travel, and cool
coworkers – all of these make work more enjoyable.
But what really makes your job the job of your
dreams is the sense of accomplishment and having
done something valuable that contributes to others.
We all want to leave a lasting mark, invent something
new, shape our industry, or leave a legacy. No
matter what your current job may be, these lasting
accomplishments are available to you.
Turn the page for inspiring stories of how some
of your fellow Ashford alumni are following their
passions right now!
WHAT IS YOUR DREAM JOB?
We all want to leave a lasting mark, invent something new, shape our industry, or leave a legacy. Here’s how!
6 / Ashford University / ashford.edu
DREAM JOBS / AU Alumni Magazine
On March 7, 2012, the Association of Private Sector Colleges and Universities
(APSCU) awarded its highest graduate achievement honor to Debra: the Graduate
Recognition for Excellence, Achievement, and Talent (GREAT) Award. This honor
is given annually to several graduates who have excelled academically, shown
extraordinary talent in their field, and overcome odds to achieve their personal
dreams. Debra was a clear choice.
To receive her award, she traveled to Washington, DC (pictured below) for the
ceremony event on Capitol Hill, where she met members of Congress and their
staff. “I feel very honored and very blessed, and yet very motivated to continue my
path,” she said, “not so much for reward basis, but hopefully to motivate others.”
With Debra’s seemingly endless supply of ambition and talent, it is safe to say
that she will continue to do so. Upon handing her the GREAT Award, Ashford’s
Director of Student Affairs Joseph Allen put it well when he said, “We all have
only 24 hours in a day, and to see somebody utilize those hours the way she has
is phenomenal.” //
THE ENTREPRENEURS
Master of Business Administration, 2007Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology, 2009
Going back to school to finish a Bachelor’s degree is no small accomplishment
for anyone, especially for someone in her 50s. But for Debra Stewart, of Laura
OH, it was only the beginning.
Debra, 56, went on to earn two Master’s degrees from Ashford University – a
Master of Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning
with Technology – and is currently enrolled in the Doctor of Psychology program
online at University of the Rockies, once again doubling up with Educational
Leadership and Health and Wellness Psychology specializations.
With more than 15 years experience in the health care industry, Debra’s Ashford
degrees prompted a promotion to Director of Wellness at her workplace, a senior
living community called St. Leonard. She then facilitated the organization as the
first Vital Life Community in the nation, and also wrote a book, “Learning Styles
Inventory Tool,” to help caregivers communicate with individuals who have
dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Debra also teaches for Sinclair Community
College and serves on the advisory boards of Mental Health Technology and
Vital Nation. On top of this, she is a Master Instructor of Tae Kwon Do, a Tai Chi
instructor for seniors, and a yoga instructor.
Think we’re done? Not quite. Debra has somehow found the time to flex her
entrepreneurial muscles by starting her own company, called Picture Yourself
Stronger, providing education for seniors concerning quality of life and personal
wellness. The service helps seniors strategically plan their lifelong wellness by
designing individual tools for self-assessment, self-coaching, and motivation.
Motivation is certainly something Debra has no lack of, perhaps as a result of
the obstacles she has overcome throughout her life. Born an orphan on a Native
American reservation, her education took a backseat to raising children after she
married and started a family of her own. Then, with her children grown, she was
finally ready to go back to school when her husband developed heart problems
and dementia. Despite becoming his caregiver, she enrolled at Ashford and
managed to fit in, and excel at, her online courses. Her husband passed away in
March 2011, but Debra’s goals have not waivered.
DEBRA STEWARTOwner, Picture Yourself Stronger
Ashford alumni start companies in green technology, grant-writing consulting, and elderly health services.
/7Ashford Connections / Issue Five
/ DREAM JOBSAU Alumni Magazine
Yolanda Grant, 48, always wanted to be involved in helping people. Noticing
a growing need amongst businesses in her community, she dreamed of one
day consulting and assisting them in writing grants. But, forced to go on
what she thought was permanent disability for health reasons, she thought
she’d never work again. And although she loved writing, she admits, “I never
thought I was capable of earning more than a C in any of my English or
writing courses.”
Despite that fear, this Tarboro, NC native enrolled in Ashford University’s
Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration program in 2009. There, all it took
was one instructor’s encouraging attitude. “The only thing holding me back
before that was my writing skills.” In 2010, “thanks to Ashford and all my other
marketing, finance, and business classes,” she achieved her dream of opening a
grant-writing business.
As CEO of Y Grant Consultants, along with her staff of two, Yolanda helps non-
profit and faith-based businesses and organizations in the community figure
out what resources are available to them. They offer a full range of services and
conduct seminars. “My business became successful overnight when the local
newspaper wrote a front-page article about my business. I owe it all to Ashford
and their wonderful, passionate instructors.”
Yolanda is now pursuing her Master of Business Administration with a Public
Administration specialization. She plans to open more offices to cover a larger
area of Eastern North Carolina. “I am now off of disability and making more
money than I ever dreamed of.” //
Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, 2011Master of Business Administration, Public Administration specialization
YOLANDA GRANTCEO, Y Grant Consultants
Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management, 2012
WAYNE SHEMSProject Manager & Senior Technician, M2 Renewables
“I’m 61 years old, and this is a great day for
me!” says Wayne Shems at Ashford’s April 2012
commencement ceremony, after receiving his
Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management. He
admits to previously “just kind of flowing with life in
many ways.” But Ashford changed that. “It’s given
me a lot more confidence in light of this economy. I
feel a lot more secure in the fact that I can move in
the job market.”
With this newfound focus, Wayne has helped
launch a private equity-funded green technology
company called M2 Renewables, where he serves
as Project Manager and Senior Technician of the
company’s MicroScreen Demonstration System.
“We convert waste into energy, and I demonstrate
that technology to prospective clients, both
industrial and municipal companies,” he explains
proudly. “I believe my degree will come into play as
we continue to progress and evolve,” he says, noting
that his courses have greatly enhanced his verbal
and written communication skills.
With a passion for everything green, he pointed out that online learning is eco-
friendly, since there is no commuting to class or shipping of physical books,
which saves fuel, CO2 emissions, and trees!
Technology is another aspect that Wayne enjoyed about Ashford, because he is
usually on the road traveling with business. “I did my coursework in hotels and
airports and job sites,” he says. “I use technology constantly. I’ve embraced it, and
it’s very key to our company’s growth and success. All of our communications,
conference calls, reports, email, chats, cell phones, exchanging photos, movies,
the Internet… you have the whole world at your fingertips at any moment.” //
Photo by Dan Videtich
8 / Ashford University / ashford.edu
DREAM JOBS / AU Alumni Magazine
THE POLITICIANS
Ashford student Denise Bacon, 44, ran for the Newberg, OR city council to help
others in her town actively express their concerns. But after winning a seat, she
realized a Bachelor’s degree would give her a greater understanding of various
issues and better serve her community. She just didn’t know how university
classes could fit in with her busy schedule. Thankfully, she found Ashford. “The
way that the program is set up, the use of all the great technology that we have
today, and the ability I have to work around my schedule are the only reasons
that I was able to even think about going back to school.”
She took right to Ashford’s Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government
online degree program, even adding minors in Social and Criminal Justice and
Public Administration. These were exactly the focuses she was looking for. And
attending Ashford had an almost immediate benefit. “The biggest payoff was
when our local newspaper endorsed me over another qualified member because
my current course of study would be helpful in my service to the community.”
The newspaper’s announcement was an example of how people in the
community appreciate her education. Best of all, she knows that it meant they
felt safe trusting her leadership. “The degree helps people to feel comfortable
with me and to know that I have the knowledge and expertise needed to move
the county forward.”
Denise, who plans to graduate from Ashford in March 2013, is now
looking forward to even bigger opportunities to help her community, as she
is now running for Yamhill County Commissioner. Follow her progress at
denisebacon.com. //
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government
DENISE BACONCity Council Member & Aspiring County Commissioner
Two current Ashford students are completing their online coursework from the campaign trail.
Master of Business Administration, Organizational Leadership specialization
JEFFREY LEHARTAutomotive Parts Quality Specialist & Aspiring State Representative
Jeffrey Lehart, 44, of Galion, OH, has a mind for the future. A dedicated father of
two girls and lifelong factory worker, he believes education is the way to inspire
his family and improve his skills.
After earning a Bachelor’s degree, he decided he wanted to run for State
Representative of District 87 in Ohio to work with leaders to stimulate the local
economy, and also to start on the path to becoming a college professor. He knew
a Master of Business Administration would help make it all possible, but with
a heavy workload and busy family schedule, Jeffrey needed a non-traditional
option. After checking out more than 30 colleges, he decided on Ashford, naming
its accelerated program, quality, and affordability as reasons for his decision.
Even with his tight schedule, Jeffrey has found that Ashford’s online platform
works perfectly for him. He can bring questions to his professors’ attention at
any time, and they have been happy to provide careful answers. “When I have
questions, they are quick to answer them accurately and explain things in great
detail.” And due to pursuing his Master’s degree, he went from being Project
Supervisor at his previous company to Parts Quality Specialist for Cardington
Yutaka Technology, where he handles all purchased automobile parts for several
suppliers in various countries.
Jeffrey, who plans to graduate from Ashford in January 2013, is now realizing his
goal of running for State Representative with the help of his wife, Angela (pictured
above with the couple’s two daughters). He is also looking forward to teaching
one day, “Personally, pursuing my MBA gives me a great deal of satisfaction, and
I believe professionally it will open a lot more doors for bigger opportunities and
better pay. I feel that my life is in transition, and once I attain the MBA it will
change for the better.” Follow Jeffrey’s campaign at jeffreylehart.com. //
Photo by Carolyn Wells-Kramer/CWK Photography
Photo by A & G Photography
/9Ashford Connections / Issue Five
/ DREAM JOBSAU Alumni Magazine
THE CREATIVES
For independent singer/songwriter Josh Damigo,
going back to school was a no-brainer. “I knew that
if I wanted to stand a chance in this crazy music
industry, I would need to know as much as the record
label executives knew.” But because of his hectic
touring schedule, Josh quickly realized that studying
in a traditional classroom setting would prove to be a
challenge. “I needed a school that could use the same
technology I was using on the road,” he explains.
Ashford University provided the perfect combination
of advanced technology and flexibility necessary
for the busy singer to pursue his Master of Arts
in Organizational Management degree online.
“I can’t tell you how great it was to finish a gig,
sell a few albums, then turn in a 10-page paper on
Business Law.”
Enlisted in the United States Marine Corps when he decided to return to college,
33-year-old Aaron B. Powell knew he needed an online institution with a solid
reputation if he was to commit to going back to school. “I’m something of a life-
long student,” says Aaron, who lists an Associate of Science, a BA in Criminal
Justice and a BA in Business Administration (from Ashford University) among
his educational accolades.
And as of June 2012, Aaron can add “published author” to his list of
accomplishments. Doomsday Diaries, his first book in a five-part fiction series,
follows a young boy named Luke – named after Powell’s own son – on his journey
through a post-apocalyptic world. “I literally just woke up one morning and my
brain was oozing with this story.”
A recording artist and a published author prove that an Ashford education can help make creative dreams a reality.
Master of Arts in Organizational Management, 2010
Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration, 2011
JOSH DAMIGOSinger/Songwriter & Recording Artist
AARON B. POWELLNovelist
Josh says he was empowered by his teachers at
Ashford, who encouraged him to write about his
passion for music and his current career. “When
people learn that you’re a musician, they often
look down on you, but nobody did that at Ashford,”
he shares. “My goals were as important as any of
my other classmates, and being taken seriously
as an artist in the online classrooms was the first
step to being taken seriously as an artist in the
outside world.”
The faculty and staff members at Ashford definitely
took him seriously as an artist, giving Josh the honor
of singing the National Anthem in front of more than
2,000 of his fellow students and their families at the
Clinton, IA graduation ceremony in 2010. Since then,
Josh has had the opportunity to open for famous acts
Although Aaron tried to write a few pages of a novel while deployed to Iraq with
the Marine Corps, he cites his experience at Ashford as truly preparing him for
his new life as a book author. “The online experience I had with Ashford was
wonderful. It was writing-intensive, and I think that really sparked my love
of writing. As a result, my critical thinking and writing abilities have been
greatly strengthened.”
Aaron, pictured at left with his wife and son, notes that there are more similarities
than differences between his new career path and being a full-time student.
“You really need to be self-motivated, set a goal, and just follow through with it.
It’s the same with online education and writing a novel – when you start it seems
overwhelming. But before you know it, you’ve completed a few classes or a few
pages, and finally you have a degree or a novel. The feeling of accomplishment
is amazing.”
Doomsday Diaries and Powell’s second novel, C-Town, are both available for
purchase through amazon.com. //
including Jason Mraz, the Zac Brown Band, Shawn
Colvin, and Shawn Mullins.
The 28-year-old singer credits his Master’s program
for taking his career to the next level. “In the music
business, there is no HR department, so the tools I
learned in Organizational Management [have helped
me] protect myself from bad [business deals]. I see
every opportunity through the eyes of an executive,
rather than an over-ambitious amateur musician…
I’d say that Ashford is responsible for making me a
rock star!”
Josh released his sophomore album, Hope, in July
2012. Find upcoming tour dates and listen to his
music online at joshdamigo.com. //
Photo by Daniel Chin
Photo by Brandi Lacey
Ashford University / ashford.edu10 /
COMMENCEMENT / AU Alumni Magazine
I am 34 years old, originally from Lima, Peru, and
have been residing in New Jersey since 1994. One of
the main reasons my family chose to venture from
Peru to New Jersey was for my brother and I to pursue
our education, regardless of our financial difficulties.
With the little English learned in my two high school
years, I earned a degree in communications at my local
community college and began to work as a preschool’s
bilingual family worker. This experience gave me the
opportunity to give back, the same way someone had
helped me when I entered high school.
From that day on, I told myself I would go back to
school to study education. Life is full of challenges and
I had my share of excuses, but one day I finally decided
to start looking for schools that accommodated
my schedule. Since I worked full-time, I needed a
different kind of school – not the typical classroom
setting. I searched and compared courses, tuition,
and student reviews, and Ashford came out on top.
My first online course (ten years after my last college
course!) was a little scary, but my advisors went above
and beyond helping me with any questions I had. The
instructors offered challenging classes and positive
and constructive criticism, and the discussions felt
like a forum where colleagues were speaking.
My graduation day soon arrived, and I flew to Iowa
for the April ceremony with my father. My whole
family in Peru and my friends in New Jersey watched
the ceremony streaming online. I graduated Summa
Cum Laude and as a member of Alpha Sigma Lambda
and the Golden Key International Honour Society. It
was an experience I will never forget. A severe storm
cancelled the previous day’s planned events, but even
the weather couldn’t stop my happiness. My mom
said she saw me on the computer nine times and my
4-year-old goddaughter was excited to see her “Titi
Jackie.” They were both crying and answering all the
calls from my boyfriend, my father watching from the
bleachers, and my family in Peru.
I met Leonella, who is in this photo with me, while
waiting before the procession. I asked her to take a
picture, and then we realized we were both Hispanics
and had an instant connection. We sat together
during the ceremony and met each other’s families
before leaving.
Graduating from Ashford has already been opening
employment opportunities; I can apply for jobs
I previously did not qualify for, and I am already
taking exams for some positions. It is very exciting.
The education I received at Ashford has given me
educational and professional confidence. I am able
to converse with others utilizing what I learned, and I
have the educational backup to validate my expertise.
And now, when I help my friends and family with their
children, I no longer have just personal opinions, but
professional ones.
Now I know with certainty that one has to prioritize
education even through all of life’s challenges. While
going to school, I had several medical emergencies,
but gathered all the strength I had to continue. Other
challenges came when friends and family members
did not understand when I could not attend a party or
reunion because I needed to write an assignment. But
even when it meant not sleeping, it all has proven to be
worth the sacrifices.
I am happy to say that others are now following in
my footsteps by looking to attend schools online and
achieve their own educational goals. It makes me
very proud to be an inspiration as others were for me
in the past. Now it is time to rest, but not for long; I
am looking forward to starting my Master’s program
soon. Who knows – maybe one day I will be the first in
my family to have a “Dr.” before my last name.
Ashford has given me the chance to reach for all my
dreams and goals. Ashford made it possible for an
immigrant from Peru to have graduated Summa Cum
Laude and make all her family’s sacrifices worth it to
fulfill the American Dream. But my story continues. It
is just the beginning!
Update: Just before this issue went to press, Jackie
contacted us with some good news. “I wanted to share
with you that because of my Bachelor’s degree, I have
now landed a job with the NJ Department of Labor
and Workforce. I am very happy about it and I start
working tomorrow! It is great to see this promotion
came to reality because of my degree at Ashford.”
Congratulations, Jackie! //
MY COMMENCEMENT DAYCommencement: By Maria Jackeline Pena-Cavallini, Bachelor of Arts in Child Development, 2012
Leonella Lomeli (left) and Jackie Pena-Cavallini (right) met at Ashford’s April 2012 commencement ceremony and have maintained their friendship on Facebook.
Every one of the estimated 1,600 graduates who attended Ashford’s spring 2012 commencement ceremony has their own unique journey that got them to their graduation day. Below is the perspective of Maria “Jackie” Jackeline Pena-Cavallini.
/11Ashford Connections / Issue Five
/ COMMENCEMENTAU Alumni Magazine
PHOTO GALLERY
The Pringles Active military Kenleen Pringle (Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, 2012) and Peter Pringle (Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management, 2012) attended the ceremony with all six of their children, ranging in ages from six to 13! “With being in the military and all the things that we have going on,” said Peter, “being able to take these classes and use the technology at hand has certainly helped us.” The Pringles, from left to right: Peter Jr., Kenneth, Kenleen, Miya, Matthew, Justin, Josiah, and Peter Sr.
The Infamous Five Current and former Ashford students Cynthia Tomei, Paulisa Laughlin, Holly Schwieger-Hoak, Janet Redmond, and Tina Leonard met during a travel studies course to Joplin, MO and have been inseparable ever since! They all attended the ceremony to support Holly, Bachelor of Arts in English, 2012. Paulisa explained, “Holly, the first to graduate, will pen a note and date of graduation in the inside of the cap and gown, then send it to the next grad, and so on. Sisterhood of the traveling cap and gown!”
Sekou Andrews The commencement speech was given by award-winning poetic voice Sekou Andrews. When asked how he feels technology is impacting us all, he replied, “Technology is changing the world around us probably faster than I can answer this question!” Visit Ashford’s YouTube channel to watch an inspiring video called Ashford University: Find Your Voice! Spring 2012 Commencement featuring footage of the ceremony set to his motivating words.
Monica Lukas Spanish teacher Monica Lukas, Bachelor of Arts in Social Science, Education concentration, 2009 and Master of Arts in Education, English Language Leaners specialization, 2012 sang the National Anthem in front of thousands at the ceremony after winning a contest on Ashford’s Facebook page. She was thrilled to be earning her graduate degree, explaining, “Right now it’s even harder to get teaching positions unless you are holding a Master’s degree.”
1 2 / Ashford University / ashford.edu
CAREER SERVICES SPOTLIGHT / AU Alumni Magazine
How do you make your dream job a reality? Finishing a degree program
will get you the knowledge that sets you apart. But while the dream job
becomes visible with a degree, a reliable support group can make it real.
Enter Ashford University’s Career Services team. They provide assistance
to students and alumni with webinars, mock interviews, networking tips,
and more.
Ashford alum Carol Everett, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, 2010 and
Master of Arts in Organizational Management, Supply Chain Management
specialization, 2012, saw clearly where she wanted to be. With her Ashford
degrees, she was prepared to transform her printing background into a
new position, ideally one close to her home. She was looking forward to
the perfect work-life balance, and it just so happened that there was an
opening for Lead Project Coordinator at a FedEx Office only a mile from
her home. The position had everything she was looking for, but she wasn’t
sure if her resume would capture her skills.
It was the perfect moment to turn to her alma mater’s Career Services for
assistance. “I had been looking for ways to improve my extensive resume
when I received an invitation from Ashford to attend a free-to-alumni
webinar on ‘How to Create the Perfect Resume.’ Perfect timing!” After
watching the webinar, the changes her resume needed became clear.
When Career Services staff reached out to see which of the other services
they could provide her, the news they received back was very exciting.
The webinar alone had provided just the right information to make edits
to her resume and give her confidence at the interview, and she had
already applied for and been offered the job at Fed Ex. She reported back,
“As a result of the revisions I already made, thanks to Ashford’s Resume
Seminar, I have finally landed my dream job. Ashford rocks!”
Another recent success story includes Katrina Hart, currently earning
her Bachelor of Arts in Health Care Administration, who contacted Career
Services in preparation for an interview to be a pharmacy technician.
Despite five years of experience, she was concerned her young age would
be an issue. After an Ashford Career Specialist reviewed her resume
and provided detailed feedback, Katrina rewrote it and shined during a
grueling five-hour interview – and she got the job!
ASHFORD’S CAREER SERVICESSpotlight: Ashford’s Career Services
“Thanks to Ashford’s Resume Seminar, I have finally landed my dream job. Ashford rocks!”
Other feedback recently received by the team includes an alum who
scheduled a last-minute mock interview in preparation for a real one, who
also landed the job, and a recent Nav y retiree who used feedback from
the team to revise a resume that previously hadn’t needed updating in 20
years. He is now able to apply for jobs with confidence.
If you need that extra push to get your resume updated, to practice your
interviewing skills, or to find assistance is your job search, be sure to visit
ashford.edu/careerservices. You might be our next success story! //
Career and Alumni Services Specialist Carol Vaughan and Ashford’s St. Bernard mascot Champ welcome Ashford students and alumni to a recent networking event.
/13Ashford Connections / Issue Five
/ CAREER SERVICES SPOTLIGHTAU Alumni Magazine
While Carol and Katrina were assisted by Career
Services to make their dream jobs real, Ashford
also has a program designed specifically for
employers called Hire a Champ (named after
Ashford’s loveable St. Bernard mascot).
In this program, employers around the United
States are introduced to Ashford University’s
diverse talent pool of experienced graduates.
Employers can post career and internship
opportunities online for Ashford students and
graduates, and they can also set up networking
events, including career fairs, to attract them.
“I was very happy with the assistance provided
through Hire A Champ,” says Stephanie
Williams of the security services company ADT.
“We had solid candidates to interview and were
able to make offers to solid hires from our Career
HIRING ASHFORD ALUMNISpotlight: Ashford’s “Hire a Champ” program
Ashford’s Career Services include:
• Job Search and Resume Builder Tool
• Career-related webinars (interviewing,
resume writing, and more)
• Assistance with writing resumes
• Advice on searching for careers
• Interview preparation and coaching
• Career and major exploration
• Online personality assessments
• Regional student and alumni
networking events
Fair utilizing Ashford University Students and
Alumni. The students have proven to be highly
successful within our company.”
Perhaps the most inspiring result of the Hire
a Champ program is that Ashford alumni are
reaching out to inform their own employers’
HR departments of this service. They do so
because, as Ashford alumni, they know first
hand that the work ethic, determination, and
diversit y of non-traditional adult learners are
often sought-after qualities for employers.
They have seen what can be accomplished with
an Ashford degree, and now they want to help
make other’s dreams real as well. Hire a Champ
makes it possible.
Whether you’re a potential employer or employee,
visit hireachamp.com to get involved! //
To get started, visit ashford.edu/careerservices.
CHAMPHIRE A
Support fellow AU alum by referringyour company’s HR department tohireachamp.com.
1 4 / Ashford University / ashford.edu
CAMPUS NEWS / AU Alumni Magazine
STUDENT ATHLETES COLLECT ACADEMIC HARDWARECampus News: By Chris Shaw, Sports Information Director
The 2011-12 academic year was once again another ground-shaking one for the
Ashford University Athletic Department, not only outside of the classroom, but
inside as well.
In July, the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) awarded all
15 eligible AU teams with the NAIA Scholar-Team Award, tying for the second-
most programs honored by one school. Every Ashford sport except bowling,
not an NAIA championship sport, landed on the list. In order for a team to be
considered for the NAIA Scholar-Team Award, it must have a minimum 3.0 grade
point average (on a 4.0 scale) as defined by the institution and must include all
varsity student-athletes certified as eligible. Women’s soccer had the top team
grade point average while women’s golf and men’s basketball rounded out the
top three.
Prior to the NAIA announcement, the Saints grabbed 136 nominations for the
Midwest Collegiate Conference All-Academic Team when the league announced
the award in June. Ashford student athletes totaled just over 15% (136 of the 890
total of the honorees on the list) and set a new school record, besting the 95
members it put on the award list during the 2010-11 school year.
Continuing the academic trend, four Ashford University athletic teams were
honored by their respective coaching and governing organizations during the
summer months as well, including both basketball and tennis teams.
The Ashford University women’s basketball team made its return to the Women’s
Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) Academic Top 25 Team Honor Roll for
the first time since the 2004-05 season. Head Coach Amy Eagan and her Saints
compiled a grade point average (GPA) of 3.417, ranking the team 15th nationally
among all NAIA institutions.
Not to be outdone, six individuals from the AU men’s basketball team landed
on the NABC (National Association of Basketball Coaches) Honors Court
following the 2011-12 academic year. Seniors Peter Tanzillo, Devin Ehrich,
Javier Valdez, and Mitch Jankowski, along with juniors Vesteinn Sveinsson and
Joseph Lightfoot III, were listed among the association’s register made up of
student athletes from the NAIA and all three divisions of NCAA men’s basketball.
Head Coach Chad Fenwick and the AU men’s and women’s tennis teams, along
with six individuals, also made their appearance on the Intercollegiate Tennis
Association (ITA) All-Academic Teams and Scholar-Athletes award lists.
The AU men’s team was one of 17 programs to garner ITA All-Academic Team
accolades, while the women’s team joined 20 other teams from around the
NAIA on the association’s list. In addition, men’s tennis student athletes
Jake Dunn and Moises Hernandez joined women’s tennis players
Anastasia Dabiza, Andreina Guedez, Theresa Stumpf, and Sara Vach as ITA
Scholar-Athletes for the 2011-12 academic season.
Ashford compiled a total of 21 recipients of the Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athlete
Award, which is given on three separate occasions throughout the athletic year.
In order to be nominated, a student athlete must maintain a minimum grade
point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale and must have achieved a junior academic
status to qualify for this honor. The AU 2011-12 recipients are listed below.
Congratulations to the Saints on another fantastic season in athletics
and academics! //
Ashford’s 2011-12 Women’s Golf team had the highest team GPA. Pictured counterclockwise from left are Head Coach Josh Heiple, Katelyn Gille, Haley Knutti, Felicia Scott, Graduate Assistant Coach Jordan Davis, Megan Wagner, Brittany Boon, Alanna Harris, and Courtney Gieseman.
Daktronics NAIA Scholar-Athlete Award Winners
FALL 2011 Ray Rivera (Men’s Cross Country), Stephanie Spencer (Women’s Soccer), Mackenzie Mueller (Women’s Soccer), Michelle Safatle (Women’s Soccer) Nick De Backer (Men’s Soccer), Rafael Machado (Men’s Soccer), Michael Handley (Men’s Soccer), and Willy Kappie (Men’s Soccer)
WINTER 2012 Javier Valdez (Men’s Basketball), Devin Ehrich (Men’s Basketball) and Kathryn Voss (Women’s Basketball)
SPRING 2012 Megan Wagner (Women’s Golf), Nicole Woodard (Softball), Ashley Schuerr (Softball), Tim Elias (Baseball), Rafael Ordaz (Baseball), Joe Dashek (Baseball), Michael Bruns (Baseball), Christian Awah (Men’s Track and Field), Justin Ludwikowski (Men’s Track and Field) and Heather Ketcham (Women’s Track and Field).
/15Ashford Connections / Issue Five
/ CAMPUS NEWSAU Alumni Magazine
Optional Practical Training
HOW FAR WILL YOU GO?Campus News: By Mandy Aldridge, Registrar Advisor and Designated School Official
Anyone recently on the second f loor of St. Clare
Hall at Ashford University’s campus in Clinton,
IA has been sure to notice a colorful bulletin
board that highlights the thriving population of
international students on campus. Along with
an increased cultural diversity, these students
bring a multi-cultural perspective to the
Ashford campus.
Ashford’s campus is approved by the United
States Immigration and Customs Enforcement
to host full-time students from around the globe
who choose to study on an F-1 visa, which is a
non-immigrant study visa for full-time academic
students. As it is not an employment-based visa,
the ability to work and earn money under it is
very limited and highly regulated. Therefore,
many international students look forward to
utilizing a benefit known as Optional Practical
Training, often referred to as OPT.
OPT gives international students who have
maintained F-1 visa status for a full academic
year the opportunity to be employed for wages
Ashford University students Damil Reyes of Caracas, Venezuela; Julius Oteng of Kumasi, Ghana; Craig Butcher of Liverpool, England; and Rafael Simmons of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil point out their homelands on the bulletin board in St. Clare Hall.
and gain valuable professional experience in a
field directly related to their area of study for a
period of one year. After a lengthy application
process, interested students must wait for several
months to find out if they have been approved.
Ashford’s history with the OPT process began
in 2007, when an Ashford Designated School
Official f irst recommended a student for the
benefit, and has continued since then.
Current student Ross Milne, Bachelor of
Arts in Business Administration, came 3,806
miles from Scotland to study at Ashford and
says that he is looking forward to beginning
OPT after graduation, explaining, “A year of
work experience in the US will benefit my
future plans.”
Recent graduate Marin Backo, Bachelor of
Arts in Business Administration, 2012, came
4,896 miles in the fall of 2010 from Croatia to
Ashford and is now a graduate living in Chicago
searching for a job after being approved for
OPT. He confirms the sentiments of many other
students when asked about his OPT experience,
stating that “OPT is a great way to gain much-
needed work experience and be introduced into
US corporate culture.”
Fellow newly-minted alumnus Rafael Ordaz,
Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration,
2012, came 2,760 miles from Venezuela to
Ashford in fall 2010, graduated in April 2012, and
was later approved for OPT. He was hired and
began working at Ashford’s Iowa Online Center
in July 2012, and is pleased with his decision.
Rafael says, “In my personal experience, I
think the OPT program is an excellent tool for
international students to apply all we have
learned in our four years of higher education. It
is truly a great benefit for us to experience a real
job in a real company after having heard about
that so much within the classroom.”
These and many other F-1 international
students have come far in the attempt to acquire
an Ashford University degree, and the OPT
experience allows them to transition their
American academic journey to a professional
one. Says Rafael, “Overall, I think the OPT
program is a win-win situation for both graduate
students and companies. It has given me the
chance to prove my skills and be part of a
great organization.” //
1 6 / Ashford University / ashford.edu
FACULTY SPOTLIGHT / AU Alumni Magazine
ASHFORD FACULTY MEMBERS MAKE WAVESFaculty Spotlight: Honors and achievements of online and campus instructors.
Dr. William Woods has been a full-time
assistant professor in the College of Business
and Professional Studies at the Ashford
campus since 2005. As an educator, he feels a
duty to advance learning while also helping
the community around him. To accomplish
this, he often incorporates a community
service activity into his students’ coursework.
One particular accomplishment was in 2012,
when his class collected more than 2,200 toys
for the Victory Center and Benevolent Society
and saw firsthand that their education can go
toward making the world a better place. For
his continued service to higher education
and the community, Dr. Woods received
the Human Rights Commission Award from
the Clinton Human Rights Commission on
May 21, 2012.
For over 30 years, Dr. Stephen Halfaker has
dedicated himself to education, taking on
many of the roles available to an educator,
from teacher to CEO. However, he has
outdone himself over the last seven years.
Working for the Lakeside Union School
District as Superintendent, he has connected
schools with the surrounding community
and to the future. Dr. Halfaker tirelessly
campaigned for the passage of Proposition V,
which provides the classrooms in Lakeside,
CA with current computer technology. For
all his effort in Lakeside, he was awarded
the 2011 Citizen of the Year award. Now,
Dr. Halfaker is bringing his lifetime of
experience and passion for education to a
full-time online faculty position in Ashford’s
College of Education.
Angela Vos McCormick believes in the
power of education. Working as an adjunct
instructor in the College of Business and
Professional Studies, she also dedicates
herself to volunteering at her children’s
school and getting involved to help them
succeed in every way. In appreciation of all
her work, Angela was welcomed to Parenting
Magazine’s Mom Congress as a representative
for Missouri. This year, the theme was “Teach
Me Something New,” which focused on how
to encourage better relationships between
parents and their children’s teachers. For
Angela, the event was transformative: “I can
say, without reservation, that I learned a
great deal from this experience. As a parent,
as a mom, I am not alone in this endeavor to
advocate for the best education for not only
my children, but for children within my state
and across the country.”
Dr. Virginia Loh-Hagan is a full-time online
Ashford faculty member in the College
of Education who also details the Asian-
American experience to younger generations
as a published author of children’s books.
“While teaching elementary school, I
realized that there was a need for more
realistic stories about the Asian-American
experience. I wanted to expose my students
to multiple perspectives.” She began writing
in 2004, and two years later she published
The Jade Dragon, a book for second to fifth
graders, which was inspired by her real-life
friendship with an adopted Chinese girl.
Dr. Loh-Hagan has also written a series of
non-fiction publications. She is currently
awaiting the spring 2013 publication by
Sleeping Bear Press of he newest book, Paper
Son, co-written by Helen Foster James and
gorgeously illustrated by Wilson Ong. For this
story, she traveled to and conducted extensive
research on Angel Island, where hundreds
of thousands of mostly Chinese immigrants
were processed from 1910 to 1940.
All Ashford instructors are encouraged to email [email protected] with news of your own recent accomplishments!
For more on Ashford faculty members, visit ashford.edu/faculty.
/17Ashford Connections / Issue Five
/ ASHFORD COMMUNITY GIVES BACKAU Alumni Magazine
Make a Difference Day participants in San Diego, CA helped beautify a local canyon.
Saturday, April 14, 2012 marked Ashford University’s first global volunteer day, named “Make a
Difference Day.” On this day, Ashford students and alumni all around the world were encouraged
to volunteer in their communities while their peers and University staff volunteered across the
globe. Everyone was asked to share their experiences on Ashford social media outlets.
Campus staff members in Clinton, IA beautified the Clinton community by cleaning up the Bluff
and South Campus, collecting eight big bags full of trash. And despite a delay due to inclement
weather, more than 200 San Diego-based staff of Ashford and their corporate headquarters,
Bridgepoint Education, assisted in a cleanup of Ruffin Canyon a few weeks later. Beautification
included debris removal, trash pick-up, mulching, pulling ice plants, and rock painting.
Meanwhile, in an effort set forth by the Denver Public Schools Foundation, about 60 Ashford
employees in the city and their families spent the day fixing up South High School and Grant
Beacon Middle School. Tasks included pulling weeds, landscaping, repainting some exterior
walls, classroom work, and adding a weight room.
Below is just a sample of the feedback received on Facebook, Twitter, and via email from
participants of Make a Difference Day and those who regularly give back to their communities:
• Rita Mason, Bachelor of Arts in Complementary and Alternative Health: “I volunteer with Hospice of Amador and Calaveras and Snowline Hospice as a Family Support volunteer, visiting and engaging with patients at their end of life.”
• Mariah Morton, Bachelor of Arts in English: “Tomorrow, I am starting my orientation for anti-human trafficking advocacy. I will likely be doing the researching and writing for an organization.”
• Casey Garcia, Associate of Arts in Business, 2012 and Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration: “I’m volunteering at my son’s school tomorrow for family movie night and then I’m chaperoning a field trip. I can’t wait to go!”
• Patty Stefaniak, Associate of Arts in Early Childhood Education, 2012: “I am helping with my son’s Destination Imagination state competition.”
• Robert Borka, Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management: “I volunteer about 1,000 hours per year with the Young Marines program. It is a 501(c)3 program whose primary focus is to keep kids off drugs.”
Ashford University thanks everyone who participated in Make a Difference Day and for sharing
the many ways you give back to your communities on a regular basis.
W hat is happening nex t? Near t he end of 2012, in conjunct ion w it h t he numerous w inter
hol idays and the spirit of giving, Ashford Universit y will be supporting a global food drive. Be
on the lookout for more information! //
MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY
Ashford Community Gives Back: By Vanessa Schoenherr, Lead Student Development Specialist
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” - Ghandi
Operation Care Package
HUNDREDS OF ASHFORD UNIVERSITY
students who are deployed overseas recently
received a token of appreciation from participants
of “Operation Care Package,” a special event put
on by Ashford during the Department of Defense
(DOD) Worldwide Education Symposium, held July
23-27, 2012 in Las Vegas. Participants filled boxes
with items donated by Ashford, including snacks,
playing cards, crossword puzzles, and Ashford
memorabilia so students could show their school
spirit. Each package also included a letter from
Ashford President Dr. Elizabeth Tice expressing
her gratitude to all members of the United States
Armed Forces. A Polaroid picture was taken of
each participant holding their box and the picture
was included in the package. Participants were
also asked to write a brief message of inspiration
and encouragement to the students on a note card
bearing the recipient’s name, branch of service,
and degree.
“THIS WAS MY FAVORITE PIECE OF THE
package,” said Milton Littlejohn, Ashford Military
Relations Manager and retired military. “I know
that when someone receives a package, especially
from a person who is not a family member, it makes
them feel so appreciated for what they are doing for
our country.”
IF YOU ARE A DEPLOYED ASHFORD STUDENT
who received a care package, please let us know!
Email [email protected]. //
1 8 / Ashford University / ashford.edu
KEEP IN TOUCH / AU Alumni Magazine
When Associate of Arts in Military Studies student
and active Army member Jonathan Hrachovina
noticed a call for photos on Ashford’s Facebook page
in a post called “The World is Your Campus,” he
submitted a photo of himself doing coursework at
Camp Marmal in Afghanistan, where he is stationed.
“This photo is of me in my office where I work nights,
when it is not too loud, so I can concentrate,” explains
Jonathan, 25. “I study in between missions, and
sometimes I will skip midnight chow to get a little
more time to concentrate on what I am reading or
writing.” He says he relishes the opportunity to put
every spare minute to good use while in Afghanistan.
“I am bettering my life and preparing for my future –
and my family’s future.”
CLASS NOTES
SOCIAL MEDIA CORNERDiscover Ashford’s social media communities at ashford.edu/social
Email [email protected] or visit
ashford.edu/alumni and let us know how
your Ashford degree is helping you reach
your personal or professional goals.
SHARE YOUR MILESTONES!
Cynthia Jones ’12, 60, who goes
by Cindy, has raised 7 children
with her husband of 42 years. She
decided to attend Ashford after
all their children were grown. “I
have had a wonderful experience
with Ashford,” she said. “The
professors know how to push you
to your limits and make you improve and grow.” With
22 grandchildren (the most recent born the morning
of commencement!) to keep her busy on top of a full-
time job, Cindy isn’t slowing down anytime soon. She
is soon starting a Master’s program in professional
counseling to work with returned veterans. “Life is
too short to idle in one spot. My Ashford experience
has helped me accomplish my dreams and goals.”
Sharon Johnson ’12 of Roa-
noke, VA attended April’s com-
mencement with her daughter
and several friends to earn her
Master of Arts in Organizational
Management degree. She told
us she is already experienc-
ing increased job responsibil-
ity, due to her Ashford education, at the national
bank where she has worked as a Business Training
Consultant for over 23 years. “Since I earned my
MA, I was given more responsibilities such as
facilitating virtual classrooms and am learning how
to design curricula.” She credits Ashford’s knowl-
edgeable professors and the caring staff at the
Office of Access and Wellness for making her
journey successful and giving her the “confidence
and self-esteem to be more marketable as job oppor-
tunities arise.”
After graduating with her Master
of Business Adminstration, Leslie Lance ’12 of Waterford Town-
ship, MI was invited by the In-
ternational Scholarship Laure-
ate Program (ISLP) to be part of
a business delegation to China.
“It was an amazing experience.
I encourage anyone and everyone who receives
an invitation to join the ISLP on a tour of a foreign
country to jump at the opportunity.” Leslie, 56, also
graduated as a member of the Golden Key Internation-
al Honour Society. A 29-year veteran of the newspaper
USA Today, she is now looking forward to starting a
second career with her Ashford degree.
Prior to being recruited by the
Ashford Saints on a basketball
scholarship, Devin Ehrich ’12
of Thompson, IL found himself
working a dead-end job after
two years of community college.
“I decided to pursue my degree
at Ashford’s campus to create
better opportunities for myself.” Now that he’s
earned his Bachelor of Arts in Sports and Recreation
Management, the 24-year old has landed a coveted
graduate assistant job at Ashford, where he is
currently earning his Master of Arts in Organizational
Management degree. “My life has changed
dramatically. I have met so many people, I matured
a lot, and my grades got better and better over the years.”
After starting out as a Kitchen
Aide at a Georgia Migrant Head
Start center, Lisa Marie Baker ’11
gradually rose in the ranks, going
from Kitchen Aide to Teacher
Assistant to Preschool Teacher.
But she didn’t stop there. “Due
to obtaining my Bachelor’s
degree, I received a promotion as State Education
Coordinator,” shares Lisa proudly. In this role, she
oversees the education department of three Migrant
Head Start centers for the state of Georgia.Lisa, 28
and of Hinesville, GA, is now pursuing her Master
of Arts in Education, Early Childhood Education
specialization at Ashford and is due to graduate in
November 2012. She looks forward to continuing to
grow in her role as educator by focusing in on family
services. “I would like to be that special person
that makes a difference in someone’s life through
education.” Look for Lisa in a video featured on
Ashford’s YouTube channel called A Day in the Life
of Ashford Student Lisa Baker.
/19Ashford Connections / Issue Five
/ KEEP IN TOUCHAU Alumni Magazine
WE HOPE YOU ENJOYED THIS EDITION OF ASHFORD CONNECTIONS! WE WELCOME YOUR FEEDBACK — PLEASE SEND ANY COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS TO: [email protected].
College of Business and Professional Studies Bachelor of Arts
Accounting*
Professional Accounting Program**
Business Administration*
Business Economics
Business Information Systems*
Business Leadership*
Computer Graphic Design**
Consumer & Family Financial Services
eMarketing
Entrepreneurship
Finance*
Human Resources Management
International Business
Operations Management & Analysis
Organizational Management
Project Management
Public Administration
Public Relations & Marketing*
Real Estate Studies
Service Management
Sports & Recreation Management*
Supply Chain Management
Sustainable Enterprise Management
Graduate DegreesMaster of Arts in Organizational Management
Master of Business Administration
Master of Public Administration
College of EducationAssociate of Arts
Early Childhood Education
Bachelor of ArtsBusiness Education**
Child Development
Cognitive Studies
Early Childhood Education
Early Childhood Education Administration
Education & Public Policy
Education Studies
Elementary Education (grades K-8)**
English Language Learner Studies
Instructional Design
Library Science & Media
Physical Education**
Graduate DegreesMaster of Arts in Education
Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology
College of Health, Human Services, and ScienceBachelor of Arts
Adult Development
Applied Behavioral Science
Complementary & Alternative Health
Gerontology
Health & Human Services
Health & Wellness
Health Care Administration*
Health Care Studies
Health Education
Health Informatics
Health Marketing & Communication
Natural Science**
Psychology*
Bachelor of ScienceBiology**
Computer Science and Mathematics**
Health Science Administration**
Natural Science**
Graduate DegreesMaster of Arts in Health Care Administration
College of Liberal ArtsAssociate of Arts
Military Studies
Bachelor of ArtsApplied Linguistics
Communication Studies
Cultural Anthropology
English
English and Communication**
Environmental Studies*
History*
Homeland Security & Emergency Management
Journalism & Mass Communication
Law Enforcement Administration
Liberal Arts*
Military Studies
Political Science & Government
Social & Criminal Justice*
Social Science*
Sociology*
Visual Art**
*Offered on campus and online.
**Offered on campus only. All other listed programs are offered online.
For more information about on-time completion rates, the median loan debt of students who completed each program, and other important information, please visit ashford.edu/pd.
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Clin
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Ashford University Student and Alumni Networking Events may be coming to a city near you. Be sure to visit ashford.edu/networkevents for specific locations and to RSVP. Please also visit ashford.edu/alumni and update your contact information so you can receive information on all alumni events and benefits.
SAVE THE DATE!
NOVEMBER 201214 / Chicago, IL
15 / Detroit, MI
29 / Sacramento, CA
DECEMBER 2012None scheduled
JANUARY 201316 / Costa Mesa, CA
17 / Pasadena, CA
FEBRUARY 201320 / Charlotte, NC
21 / Orlando, FL
MARCH 201313 / San Antonio, TX
14 / Houston, TX
APRIL 201309 / Stamford, CT
10 / Hackensack, NJ
11 / Baltimore, MD
