Kevin Bessy had been working in the construction and engineering field for some time when he realized he had progressed in management as far as he could without a formal business education. This realization, along with concerns about limited career opportunities due to the economic downturn, made him consider backing up his work experience with a bachelor’s degree. For his success in completing his degree and using his education to further his career, Bessy was named Ashford University’s Outstanding Alum of the Week.

 “I was attracted to Ashford University because of its business programs, flexibility, and the fact that I could transfer in 33 credits from professional development courses I had taken previously,” said Bessy. Now, after having graduated summa cum laude in 2013 with a bachelor of arts in organizational management, project management specialization, he is back at the Forbes School of Business at Ashford to earn his master of business administration degree, entrepreneurship specialization, and is due to graduate in summer 2014.

During his time at Ashford, Bessy has been on the Dean’s List often and joined two honor societies. He was even selected to receive a $2,000 travel grant to attend the Golden Key International Honour Society 2013 Summit in South Africa, which he calls “an exhilarating experience I will never forget.” Additionally, he has been nominated for the International Scholar Laureate Program (a program affiliated with the Golden Key International Honour Society), which will soon have him traveling to New Zealand and Australia to learn interactively about business entrepreneurship in that part of the world.

Bessy is currently working internationally as a Senior Estimator for heavy civil contractor Colautti Construction Inc. in Ontario, Canada. He says he has seen both professional and personal payoffs since earning his bachelor’s degree. “I’ve been able to seek a more rewarding career with a more appreciative and supportive firm and been able to use my continued education toward my professional designation in the Canadian Construction Associations Gold Seal Certification program,” Bessy said. “It’s also boosted my confidence and made me more willing to take on challenges at work and in my personal life.”

The online platform at Ashford is something that Bessy believes is leading the way for working professionals to earn their degrees, especially because time is always a factor for adults trying to balance all aspects of family, career, and personal goals. He added, “I hope people out there who are thinking about going back to school will stop finding reasons to put it off. There is no time like the present.”

Bessy is currently considering pursuing his doctoral degree with Ashford’s sister school, University of the Rockies, after he finishes up his MBA studies. He says, “Most importantly, I want to inspire my son, Finn, as he grows to know, understand, and value education as a means of accomplishing his goals. Since enrolling at Ashford, my life has changed for the better in so many ways.”

The Alumni Success Stories  recognition was created to spotlight Ashford success stories and graduates who have used their Ashford education as a springboard to personal and professional achievement.

About Ashford University

Achievement belongs to all of us at Ashford University. By offering a traditional college campus as well as online degree programs, Ashford meets the diverse needs of individuals pursuing integrity in their lives and in their communities. Students may earn an associates, bachelor’s, or master’s degree online, while campus students in Clinton, Iowa may earn a bachelor’s degree. Whether on campus or online, Ashford students enjoy the same supportive community. For more information, please visit http://www.ashford.edu/, www.facebook.com/ashforduniversity, www.twitter.com/AshfordU, or call Shari Winet, Vice President of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.