Ashford University showed its support for military education by serving as a sponsor of the 2013 Council of College and Military Educators (CCME) Annual Symposium. The event was held February 25-28 at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront in San Diego, Calif. 

The symposium is organized each year by CCME, an association that works to promote higher education among service members. The event attracted roughly 1,000 attendees, including military educators, civilian educators, post-secondary educational institutions, and suppliers of quality education products and services. 

Ashford’s booth utilized a creative approach to donating funds to two charitable military organizations. Visitors were given an opportunity to select one of two charities to be the recipient of a monetary donation from the University. The top vote-getter was REBOOT, a local organization dedicated to helping veterans successfully transition from deployment into civilian life. Ashford donated $5,000.00 to REBOOT. As runner-up, USO San Diego, an organization that provides programs, services, and live entertainment to American troops and their families, received a $2,500.00 donation from the University. 

“This donation is going to sponsor deserving veterans. It’s going to change their lives,” said Maurice Wilson, president and executive director of REBOOT. “Without sponsorships, we can’t do the work. Without sponsorships, veterans stay stuck in these cycles and they can’t get out by themselves. Our statistics have shown us that graduates who go through the program have a 98% success rate of transitioning from military life to civilian life. No one else in the country is doing this. It’s absolutely crucial.” 

Ashford also worked with Freedom Station and The Warrior Foundation to create another opportunity to give back to service members at this year’s symposium. At Ashford’s booth, CCME attendees were able to write letters of encouragement to service members, letters that will be included in a padfolio to be distributed by these two military organizations. 

Dr. Micheal Smith, Ashford vice president of corporate and military relations, attended the event along with the University’s departments of Military Relations, Career and Alumni Services, Leadership and Professional Development, Student Development and Engagement, and Student Access and Wellness. All were present to represent the University and enlighten attendees about everything Ashford has to offer military personnel. 

“It’s extremely important for Ashford to participate in events like the CCME Symposium. It functions to strengthen the relationship we have with leaders of the military community,” said Dr. Smith. “We are especially committed to our military students, and it is essential to demonstrate that commitment by communicating all of our dedicated support as well as giving back.” 

The Council of College and Military Educators was originally formed in California with a mission to serve the needs of military personnel who wanted a college education. The first CCME Symposium took place in 1973. Today, by fostering an exchange of information on educational programs, innovations, and strategies, the CCME continues to be an active proponent of professional development for those serving in the military education community.

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.