Ashford University announced it has won the Innovation Award for the development of Constellation, a state-of-the-art platform and suite of e-online textbooks that support learning through the use of dynamic, interactive material.  The platform replaces the need for traditional textbooks created by outside publishers and instead hosts original, peer-reviewed online textbooks.

The Innovation Award is a prestigious award given by the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA), which recognizes unique approaches to the delivery of distance learning. Submissions for the Innovation Award were scored based on their originality, significance, measurable impact, and more. There are five categories recognized each year: K–12, higher education, corporate training, telehealth, and military/government.

“Ashford graduates work in professions where digital learning and competence are a given. Constellation creates a learning environment that not only makes academic content more accessible, but also hones critical digital learning skills," is says Dr. Craig Swenson, president of Ashford University. “I am so proud of everyone at Ashford who worked hard to bring Constellation to life and the recognition their work has earned.”

Ashford employees, along with employees from Ashford’s parent company, Bridgepoint Education, accepted the award in-person at the USDLA Annual International Awards Ceremony in Indianapolis, Ind. on Monday, May 1.

For more information about Constellation visit https://www.ashford.edu/blog/technology/online-learning-tools-five-questions-about-constellation.

About Ashford University

Where heritage meets innovation – that’s Ashford University. At Ashford, students discover relevant degree programs, innovative technology, and cherished tradition. Ashford offers associates, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs online, allowing students to balance life by providing the flexibility to do school work anywhere, anytime. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu, www.facebook.com/ashforduniversity, www.twitter.com/AshfordU, or call Marianne Perez, Media Relations Manager, at 858.513.9240 x11636.

About Bridgepoint Education

Bridgepoint Education, Inc. (NYSE:BPI) harnesses the latest technology to reimagine the modern student experience. Bridgepoint owns two academic institutions – Ashford University and University of the Rockies. Together, these programs, technologies, and resources represent a unique model for advancing education in the 21st century. Bridgepoint stands for greater access, social learning, and exposure to leading minds. For more information, visit www.bridgepointeducation.com, www.facebook.com/BridgepointEducation, or call Marianne Perez, Media Relations Manager, at 858.668.2586 x11636.

About United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) is a 501(c) 3 non-profit association formed in 1987 and is located in Boston, Massachusetts. The association reaches 20,000 people globally with sponsors and members operating in and influencing 46% of the $913 billion dollar U.S. education and training market.  USDLA promotes the development and application of distance learning for education and training and serves the needs of the distance learning community by providing advocacy, information, networking and opportunity. Distance learning and training constituencies served include pre-k-12 education, higher and continuing education, home schooling as well as business, corporate, military, government and telehealth markets. The USDLA trademarked logo is the recognized worldwide symbol of dedicated professionals committed to the distance learning industry. http://www.usdla.org