Damen Lopez, founder of the No Excuses University Network of Schools, has been announced as the keynote speaker for Ashford University’s commencement ceremony on October 4. Thousands of graduates and guests from across the United States and from several other countries are expected to participate in the commencement ceremony to be held at the Viejas Arena in San Diego.

A San Diego resident, Lopez earned his B.A. in Liberal Studies and M.A. in Educational Leadership from Point Loma Nazarene University. He is the youngest educator to earn the University of San Diego’s Remarkable Leader in Education Award.

Lopez founded the No Excuses University Network of Schools in 2004. The organization helps to build a bridge for all students to attend college by promoting a comprehensive college readiness model starting in pre-kindergarten.

Since founding No Excuses University, Lopez has shared the organization’s message with thousands of educators, schools, districts, and other educational organizations around the country. He authored the book No Excuses University: How Six Exceptional Systems Are Revolutionizing Our Schools, which describes the systems that promote academic results for all students under the umbrella of college readiness. Most recently, Lopez has completed work on a new book titled No Excuses Leadership: Nine Bold Choices Exceptional Leaders Make.

To date, there are hundreds of schools participating in the No Excuses University program. The organization has influenced the lives of more than 150,000 students in 22 states, received national attention, and been featured in numerous media outlets.

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.