With more than 350 volunteer hours logged in 2011, Betsy Vanausdeln, an instructional specialist for Ashford University, has been named Bridgepoint Education’s Hero of the Year.

“It feels incredible to receive this honor. I feel like I am on top of the world,” said Vanausdeln who lives in Bettendorf, IA. “Giving back to the community is something I have always done and will continue to do. This honor means a lot to me.”

As part of their commitment to enrich the communities they serve, Bridgepoint Education, Inc. – parent company to Ashford University – recognizes an outstanding employee each year who goes above and beyond in embracing the company’s giving mission. Upon receiving the Bridgepoint Hero of the Year honor, Vanausdeln received a trophy and a $1,000 donation to go toward the charity of her choice. 

“I would like to donate the money to the Girl Scout troop I lead,” said Vanausdeln. “The money will be used to help fund community service projects to help the members complete their award in girl scouting.”

Vanausdeln is an avid volunteer for the Girl Scouts of the United States of America. She began her volunteer career with the Girl Scouts more than 30 years ago when she became a Brownie and her mother was her troop leader. Today, Vanausdeln is leader of her own troop of 14 Girl Scouts, which includes her 15-year-old daughter.

Vanausdeln is also co-chair of the Bridgepoint Heroes Committee at the company’s Iowa Online Center. The 12-person committee is responsible for overseeing projects to help the community align with the three focus areas in Bridgepoint’s Social Responsibilty Mission: Education, Youth and the Military. In the past year, the committee’s volunteer efforts have consisted of monthly and ongoing events helping several organizations in the Clinton community, such as book drives for the Clinton Area Education Agency, food drives for various charities, Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl-A-Thon and silent auctions for the United Way.

Involved with several charities through Bridgepoint Heroes, as well as outside of work, Vanausdeln is committed to making the world a better place through service to the community. “Being a veteran of the armed forces, I have always found it imperative to serve the community and will continue to be an active volunteer. I just love it. It makes me feel good,” she said.

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.