Ashford University is recognizing the achievements of an online graduate from each of the University’s four colleges by awarding them a scholarship for a trip to the campus in Clinton, Iowa and the opportunity to participate in the commencement ceremony on May 5.

Recipients of the Spring 2013 Commencement Scholarship, which covers the student’s expenses for airfare, lodging and car rental, are:  College of Business and Professional Studies graduate Raquel Ramirez of San Diego, Calif.; College of Health, Human Services and Science graduate Tiana Coney of Lansdowne, Pa.; College of Liberal Arts graduate Daniel Skurka of Bedford, Mass.; and College of Education graduate Maria Privado of Adelphi, Md.

To win the scholarship, graduates told the story of their higher education journey in a video. Students with a grade point average of 3.85 and higher were eligible, and each applicant was required to answer questions about their educational and career goals. Each student’s application for the scholarship was presented via a video hosting service such as YouTube.

“These scholarships provide a great opportunity for students who otherwise may not have been able to attend commencement due to travel costs,” Dr. Richard Pattenaude, president of Ashford University, said. “At Ashford University, we are committed to quality and excellence, and this is our way of honoring the hard work and dedication of high- achieving students.”

To view Raquel Ramirez’s video, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQ0Kxz7OalU

To view Tiana Coney’s video, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEpTvqGpm0Q&feature=youtu.be

To view Daniel Skurka’s video, visit: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=txF7i3l-2-A

To view Maria Privado’s video, visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZgL5QLsLvsc

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.