CLINTON, Iowa, April 12 /PRNewswire/ -- Ashford University, a university offering graduate and undergraduate degree programs online and at its Clinton, Iowa, campus, has appointed Rep. Polly Bukta, D-Clinton, to its board of trustees.

(Photo:  http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20100412/LA84024)

Serving her seventh term in the Iowa House of Representatives, Bukta, 73, is not seeking re-election. The Ashford University board appointment is the first official opportunity she has accepted since her Jan. 10 announcement to step down.

Bukta began her career as a fifth-grade teacher and was an educator for 33 years prior to becoming a legislator. In 2007, she became the first woman speaker pro-tem of the Iowa House of Representatives.

"My mother was a teacher and her love for education transferred to me. At the time, there weren't many professions for women to pursue, but even if there were, I still would have chosen to become a teacher," she said.

"I have first-hand experience teaching, understand education policy and am happy to serve Ashford University in accomplishing its goals." Bukta adds that she now has the time to catch up on activities she has wanted to pursue, including her new role as an Ashford University board member.

"Representative Bukta is a passionate education advocate and has been a long-time supporter of the university," Ashford University president Jane McAuliffe said. "We're honored to have her on our 11-member board of trustees and look forward to her insight and leadership in our ongoing quest to provide innovative higher learning opportunities that meet the needs of our students."

Bukta, who has lived in Clinton since 1967, is an active member of numerous business and civic organizations. She earned her bachelor's degree in elementary education with a minor in French from Mercyhurst College, Erie, Pa.

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, director of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.

SOURCE Ashford University