As part of Ashford University’s biannual “Heroes Day” volunteer event, nearly 200 employees, faculty members, and staff from the University and its parent company, Bridgepoint Education, spent Saturday morning, Sept. 14, cleaning up San Diego’s historic Balboa Park. More than 1,000 pounds of trash was collected in the beautification effort.

“Ashford University employees and their families made a tremendous difference in the health of our local environment by cleaning up Florida Canyon with I Love a Clean San Diego,” said Pauline Martinson, executive director at I Love a Clean San Diego.

The cleanup of Florida Canyon was one of many tasks completed by the Ashford volunteers. Other activities included storm drain stenciling and general trash removal throughout the 1,200 acres of urban cultural park located in the city’s Uptown District.

“As a university, helping people change their lives and improve our communities is innately ingrained in our culture. I am continually impressed by how many of our employees and faculty members consistently give back to the community – and not just at our Heroes events,” said Dr. Richard Pattenaude, president and CEO of Ashford University. “I am proud to be a part of Ashford and to lead a team of people who are so committed to making the world a better place.”

In April, nearly 300 Ashford Heroes volunteered their time to clean and improve the San Diego River Garden. The event was part of a nationwide Heroes Day effort in which Ashford employees, faculty members, staff, and students across the country volunteered their time to worthy causes.

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.

About Bridgepoint Education
Bridgepoint Education, Inc. (NYSE:BPI) improves the way individuals learn. By harnessing creativity, knowledge and proprietary technologies, such as Constellation, Thuze and Waypoint Outcomes, Bridgepoint Education has re-engineered the modern student experience with innovative solutions that advance learning. Its academic institutions – Ashford University and University of the Rockies – embody the contemporary college experience. Ashford University offers associates, bachelor's and master's degree programs while University of the Rockies offers master’s and doctoral degree programs. Both provide progressive online platforms, as well as traditional campuses located in Clinton, Iowa (Ashford University), and Colorado Springs, Colorado (University of the Rockies). For more information about Bridgepoint Education, visit www.bridgepointeducation.com or call Shari Winet Rodriguez, vice president of Public Relations, at 858.668.2580.