Ashford University celebrated its fall commencement ceremony on Sunday, October 2. More than 7,500 students graduated since the University’s last commencement ceremony in May. Roughly 1,000 of those graduates and nearly 4,630 guests traveled to San Diego to attend the commencement ceremony at Viejas Arena and receive their diplomas in person.

Ashford University President and CEO Dr. Craig Swenson delivered the keynote speech and Ashford alum and Guardian Scholar Clifton Hidds-Narcisse gave the alumni address during the commencement ceremony. 

During his stirring speech, Dr. Swenson told the graduates, “Humanity is in desperate need of some victories right now. We need bridge builders. Your education has prepared you for just that. Who better than you to take on the responsibility? That is our challenge. Please accept my sincere congratulations on your achievement and my wishes for great success in your life with your family and in all your endeavors.”

“While you soak up this moment of personal and collective acknowledgement, know that as special and unique as you may be, it is not the end of your story,” Hidds-Narcisse told the graduating class. “You now owe it to yourself to make the most of the skills you have acquired and the natural talents you have honed.”

The ceremony capped off a weekend of celebration which began on Saturday, October 1, with graduation festivities at Ashford’s San Diego headquarters and a graduation celebration at Dave and Busters in San Diego for graduates and their families.

Ashford University’s commencement ceremonies are held semi-annually. The spring 2017 commencement ceremony is planned for Sunday, May 21, 2017.

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.