Eleven brave souls volunteered to have their heads shaved during Ashford University’s St. Baldrick’s Foundation event on Friday, March 16, raising $2,600 for children’s cancer research.

The local St. Baldrick's event was sponsored by Ashford University. A group of employee volunteers known as Ashford Heroes helps raise money for various causes during the year, and event participants spent a month gathering pledges and then had their heads shaved by licensed cosmetologists to represent what some children experience while having cancer treatments.

“Eight Ashford employees and three of their family members participated and raised money for St. Baldrick’s Foundation,” said Betsy Vanausdeln, an Ashford instructional specialist who helped organize the event. “These very generous individuals gave their hair for children who are fighting various cancers. The Ashford University Online Center pledged a goal of $2,000.00 to St. Baldrick’s Foundation and I am proud to say that we raised $2,600.00 with fundraising efforts through the collection of pop cans and a dress down day. I am very proud to work alongside some awesome colleagues.”

One of those colleagues, Dr. Melody Grove, an instructional specialist, and her 8-year-old son Caleb both underwent the clippers. “I have been personally touched by cancer and I am very aware of the personal journey it requires from each person it touches both directly and indirectly,” Grove said. “These children face horrific pain and fear every day; some of them for many years before they finally win the battle or give in because they are just too weak to fight anymore. Cancer has no boundaries and can and will touch the life of someone you know and care about. My part for St. Baldrick’s was easy. I am more than humbled by the brave fight that each and every one of those children and families go through each day.”

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. Ashford University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association (www.ncahlc.org). 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 Rodriguez, associate vice president of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.