Students from as far away as the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam and South Korea traveled to Ashford University’s Clinton, Iowa campus to receive their degrees during three graduation ceremonies on Saturday, Oct. 16. Online students also came from 46 different states to get their Ashford diplomas in person. It was the first time in the institution’s history that graduation ceremonies were held in October.  

“Many of our students meet face-to-face for the first time at graduation,” Dr. Jane McAuliffe, president of Ashford University, said. “While almost all of our students earn their degrees online, there's a connection to the university community at our traditional campus, one of Clinton's historic landmarks set amidst rolling hills. Graduation ceremonies are a wonderful opportunity for graduates to come together to celebrate their higher education experience at Ashford University.” 

Ashford University's online graduates represent the face of non-traditional online learners – working moms, dads, military war veterans, career enhancers, career launchers and scholarship winners who need flexibility in earning their degree.  

Author and CNN Contributor Dr. Steve Perry was the keynote speaker for all three ceremonies. 

About Ashford University

Founded in 1918, Ashford University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (www.ncahlc.org). The University offers graduate and undergraduate degree programs online and at its Clinton, Iowa, campus. The University is known for its high quality yet highly affordable online and on-campus programs. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, associate vice president of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.