Staff and faculty at Ashford University helped to bring the holiday spirit to children in the San Diego and Colorado communities this year. The Ashford Heroes Holiday Toy Drive, held November 12 – December 13, produced a total of 1,700 toys that were donated to the Toys for Tots Foundation in partnership with the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.

“Bringing a smile to a child’s face this holiday season is one of the greatest gifts our organization can give. During this time of year, it’s important to think of others and share our blessings with the less fortunate,” said Jennifer Love Bruce, associate vice president of community relations at Bridgepoint Education, Ashford’s parent company. “The campaign was a great success and we look forward to working with Toys for Tots in the future.”

To boost employee participation, Ashford held a special toy drop on December 3 at the University’s Sunroad location in San Diego. U.S. Marines were stationed in the lobby to collect new, unwrapped toys from employees.

Ashford’s Clinton, Iowa campus is also participating in a food drive this holiday season as part of Clinton’s annual “Freezin’ for Food” campaign. All donations from Ashford staff and faculty will support local food banks.

For more information about the Toys for Tots Foundation, visit www.toysfortots.org.

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 online degree programs, while the Clinton, Iowa campus offers bachelor’s programs. Whether on campus or online, Ashford students enjoy the same supportive community. For more information, please visit ashford.edu or call Shari Winet, Vice President of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.

About Bridgepoint Education

Enrichment, integrity, and innovation – these are the values that Bridgepoint Education, Inc. (NYSE:BPI) promotes. Through innovative education solutions such as Constellation, Thuze®, and Waypoint Outcomes, Bridgepoint is advancing learning in the digital age. Bridgepoint also owns three academic institutions – Ashford University, University of the Rockies, and Denver Learning Institute. Committed to being a socially responsible organization, Bridgepoint Education’s philanthropic efforts are directed toward education, youth, and the military community. For more information, visit bridgepointeducation.com or call Shari Winet, Vice President of Public Relations, at 858.668.2580.