Iowa Gov. Terry Branstad and Lt. Gov. Kim Reynolds visited the Ashford University campus in Clinton, Iowa, on Tuesday, August 20. Branstad and Reynolds toured the campus and met with Ashford employees and students. Ashford University president Dr. Richard Pattenaude and vice president/campus director John Ballheim led the tour and discussed the numerous campus projects that have transformed Ashford into a first-class academic environment.

Ashford University has invested $40 million in campus improvement projects and created more than 400 jobs in the Clinton area. The governor and lieutenant governor visited the recently renovated first floor of Regis Hall and the Ladd Science Building, and learned about initiatives underway at the University to increase student success and academic support.

Following the tour, Branstad and Reynolds addressed student leaders and select faculty and staff on the topics of higher education and issues impacting Iowa.

“It was an honor to host the governor and lieutenant governor on our campus,” said Dr. Pattenaude. “We were very pleased to showcase the positive changes we have made to the campus since the governor’s last visit in 1998. Gov. Branstad has made it a goal of his administration to enhance the educational options for students in Iowa and that is a goal we certainly share at Ashford University.”

About Ashford University

Ashford University is defining the modern college experience by combining the heritage of a traditional campus with the flexibility and effectiveness of online learning. The University provides a vibrant learning community where high-quality programs and leading-edge technology create a dynamic, immersive and stimulating learning experience. The University offers practical and progressive associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs online, as well as bachelor’s degree programs at its Clinton, Iowa, campus. Ashford University – where heritage meets innovation. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Winet Rodriguez, vice president of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.