Ashford University announced that the keynote address at its fall commencement ceremony will be delivered by the university’s recently appointed president, Dr. Craig Swenson. Ashford’s commencement ceremony is set for 10 a.m. on Sunday, October 2 at the Viejas Arena, 5500 Canyon Crest Dr. in San Diego, Calif.

With more than 30 years of experience in higher education, Dr. Swenson is a recognized national leader in higher education. In 2015, Dr. Swenson served as interim president of Ashford’s sister school, University of the Rockies. Prior to that, he served as chancellor emeritus and was a professor of higher education administration at Argosy University. He also served as chancellor of the Argosy System for seven years and held the position of chief academic officer for Education Management Corporation for several years.

Dr. Swenson served as provost and vice president of academic affairs at Western Governors University, and served as provost and senior vice president of academic affairs over the University of Phoenix system. In addition, Dr. Swenson was the senior regional vice president and vice president/campus director at University of Phoenix.

Dr. Swenson earned a Ph.D. in education with an emphasis in adult and organizational learning at Walden University, a master’s degree in organizational communication from Brigham Young University, and a bachelor’s degree in journalism and mass communications from University of Utah.

More than 1,400 students are expected to travel to San Diego to receive their diplomas during Ashford’s commencement weekend. During the weekend, graduates will have an opportunity to take tours of Ashford’s San Diego headquarters and to meet other students and professors at various “Meet & Greet” events.

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 Marianne Perez, Media Relations Manager, at 858.513.9240 x11636.