The Senate of the 129th General Assembly of Ohio praised Ashford University graduate Debra Stewart on receiving the Graduate Recognition for Excellence, Achievement, and Talent (GREAT) Award from the Association of Private Sector Colleges and Universities (APSCU).
“You are a remarkable individual, combining civic concern and dedication with selfless initiative to become a dynamic leader in your field...Willingly giving of your time, energy, and abilities, you have striven to better the world around you, and through your generous contributions, you have earned the respect and esteem of the entire community,” stated a proclamation signed by Senator Tom Niehaus, President of the Ohio Senate, and Senator Bill Beagle, 5th Senatorial District.
Stewart received the APSCU GREAT Award, the organization’s highest honor, in a Capitol Hill ceremony in March attended by Congressman Fred Upton and Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy. She also met with her elected representatives to the U.S. House and Senate; Senator Rob Portman, and staff members from the office of Speaker John Boehner and the office of Senator Sherrod Brown. The GREAT award recognizes recent graduates of private sector colleges and universities who have overcome great odds to achieve their educational dreams.
Stewart earned her Master of Business Administration and Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology degrees at Ashford University.
Stewart is the director of wellness for the St. Leonard Senior Living Community, where she was instrumental in facilitating the non-profit organization’s certification as the first Vital Life Community in the nation. She also teaches for Sinclair Community College, owns a company called Picture Yourself Stronger that offers corporate wellness programs to various organizations, and serves on the advisory boards of Mental Health Technology and Vital Nation.
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.