Ashford University teamed up with the San Diego Padres this morning to present a $1,000 donation to the Chula Vista Public Library. The downtown Chula Vista library hosted the ceremony, and Chula Vista Mayor Cheryl Cox accepted the gift on behalf of the library. Members of Ashford University, the San Diego Padres front office, and local government representatives also attended.

The donation was followed by San Diego Padres pitcher Clayton Richard’s rousing rendition of Lydia Dabcovich’s Sleepy Bear, and A Color of his Own, by Leo Lionni. An estimated crowd of 100 children and Padres fans were on hand to enjoy Richard’s reading, and he remained afterward to answer pitcher and Padres questions, and to sign hero cards and fan paraphernalia.

This gift to the Chula Vista Public Library today is one of many planned in conjunction with the Padres Reading Corner in 2013. A similar contribution was made at the El Cajon branch of the San Diego County Library system on May 7, and additional Reading Corner donation ceremonies are planned for the National City Public Library, and at the Lemon Grove and downtown branches of the San Diego County Library later this summer.

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. The University offers practical and progressive associate's, bachelor's and master's degree programs online, as well as bachelor’s degree programs at its Clinton, Iowa, campus. Ashford University – where heritage meets innovation. For more information, please visit www.ashford.edu or call Shari Winet Rodriguez, vice president of Public Relations, at 858.513.9240 x2513.