Brian Walton had already earned a bachelor’s degree in Science Technology Management when he sought a new career path to academia and teaching. He knew achieving his dream would require a full-time commitment, but like many people in his position, he couldn’t afford to give up his full-time job. At Ashford University, Walton was able to pursue his dream while continuing to work full-time. For his accomplishments, Walton has been named Ashford’s Outstanding Alum of the Month.

The quality of the online learning experience was a key factor in Walton’s choice of schools. He wanted to feel a personal connection to classmates and instructors, and wanted his courses to be “laid out week-by-week” in order to better manage his time.

After reviewing his prospects, Walton chose to pursue Ashford University’s Master of Arts in Organizational Management, a degree program that turns managers into leaders and features eight specializations for students pursuing different academic fields.

“The program was initially appealing because of the specific organizational management concentration and leadership coursework,” Walton said. “The faculty and staff are well prepared to create strong learning environments for the online setting. Each instructor changed the course to meet their educational and course needs, but the overall look and feel was consistent.”

Outside of the classroom, Walton said the library became his “best friend,” adding that its archive of scholarly journals and articles was helpful “both educationally and professionally.”

He also cited courses like Contemporary Issues in Organizational Leadership as critical to his studies.

“I really enjoy courses like this because they are relevant to today’s issues,” he said. “The instructor did a phenomenal job providing and sharing relevant issues and personal experience.”

Upon graduating from Ashford in May 2011, Walton used his new degree to earn a position with the Pennsylvania School of Technology in Williamsport. He currently serves as the assistant dean for the School of Business and Hospitality, and he is also a part-time adjunct professor for business and management courses. He’ll begin pursuing his doctorate in September 2015.

His life transformed, today Walton calls his Ashford University education a “very positive chapter” in a life of learning, and he said he would be happy to share his experience and resources with others.

“I believe everyone needs to find the best fit for them, a place where they can effectively learn and feel at home.”

The Ashford University 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 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 www.ashford.edu, www.facebook.com/ashforduniversity, www.twitter.com/AshfordU, or call Shari Winet, Vice President of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.