December 2, 2011 – Franci Phelan, a 1983 graduate of Mount St. Clare College (MSCC), was inducted into the Ashford University Alumni Hall of Fame on Saturday, Nov. 19 as part of the University’s homecoming dinner and dance celebration.

Phelan, the senior vice president of grow people for Kum & Go, L.C., a pioneer in the convenience store industry, lives in Maxwell, IA.

After receiving her associate’s degree from MSCC, she obtained a bachelor’s degree in business communication from Arizona State University and a master’s degree in management from Indiana Wesleyan University. Phelan is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in human and organizational learning with George Washington University. She is certified as a senior professional in human resources and a global professional in human resources.

Phelan joined Kum & Go with an extensive background in human resources, including senior level positions in management and organizational development, change management, succession planning, strategy, integration, and international assignments.

Prior to joining Kum & Go, she served as chief human resources officer with The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. She was accountable for all elements of the human resources function for the Foundation and was a member of the senior leadership team. She also worked at DuPont/Pioneer, Cummins Engine Company, Miller Brewing Company, TDS Telecom, Principal Financial Group, Wells Fargo Home Mortgage and The Circle K Corporation.

Her community involvement includes service on the board of directors for Hospice of Central Iowa, Special Olympics of Central Iowa, Des Moines Public Library, and Des Moines Higher Education Institution. She has been involved with the United Way and continues to advise The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and the National Council of Ag Education.

About Ashford University

Founded in 1918, Ashford University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association (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.