Anthony Brown is living his life to the fullest. Retired from a long and rewarding career in the United States Navy, the 54-year-old father of four works as a Dual Diagnosis Addictions Counselor and also spends his spare time planning events, mentoring foster teams, composing and producing music, and working in interior design. Yet, for all he’s accomplished, finishing his degree ranks among Brown’s greatest achievements. Because of this accomplishment, Brown has been named Ashford University’s Outstanding Alum of the Month.

The path to his degree began way back in 1990. While Brown was serving overseas in Operation Desert Storm, his mother passed away. The final words she said to her son resonated with Brown for many years. “She said ‘Son, I leave you in God’s hands, I am so proud of you. You stay in the Navy because there is nothing here in these streets, and get your degree.’”

Brown never forgot his mother’s advice, but it would be several years before he decided to pursue his degree. “I would always meet with my subordinates and allow them to give me feedback,” he said. “Without hesitation, I heard ‘Hey Chief, why haven’t you finished your degree?’ and my response was, ‘I just can’t find the right university.’”

A colleague suggested Ashford University to Brown. After seeing what the school had to offer, Anthony enrolled and chose to pursue a Bachelor of Arts degree in Applied Behavioral Science.

“I personally am guided by thinking strategies for new insights to old behavioral problems and the process of generating many healthy alternative ideas,” Brown said. “Each step in this journey allowed me to insert a piece of the academic puzzle into the big picture of understanding life and relating to human behaviors.”

Like many adult learners, Brown approached Ashford’s online format with some hesitation, but his instructors quickly assuaged those fears. “Being from the Baby Boomer generation, I didn’t know if I’d be able to adapt to what I perceived as a Millenial, technical-type environment,” he said. “All of the instructors in my classes did a phenomenal job with bridging that gap.”

Now, having graduated with his degree, Brown is looking forward to continuing his role as a mentor and motivator. “Ashford University was as advertised. Not only has my life changed, but the joy of this achievement has elevated and inspired those around me as well.”

And Brown will never forget the woman who inspired him to go to school. “This accomplishment is in memory of Georgia Ardena Brown.”

Ashford University’s Outstanding Alum of the Month recognition was created to spotlight Ashford success stories and graduates who have used their Ashford education as a springboard to personal and professional achievement.

About Ashford University

Where heritage meets innovation – that’s Ashford University. At Ashford, students discover relevant degree programs, innovative technology, and cherished tradition. Ashford offers associates, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs online, allowing students to balance life by providing the flexibility to do school work anywhere, anytime. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu, www.facebook.com/ashforduniversity, www.twitter.com/AshfordU, or call Shari Winet, Vice President of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x11601.