Graduates from Ashford University participated in a commencement ceremony held on Sunday, May 1 at Viejas Arena in San Diego. More than 1,200 graduates traveled to San Diego to receive their diplomas.

During the ceremony, the keynote address was provided by Dr. Aaron Bruce, the chief diversity officer at San Diego State University. In his speech, Dr. Bruce provided inspiring words to graduates about commitment, giving back to the community, and helping others in need.

“We are pleased to be able to once again welcome so many of our graduates to San Diego,” said Dr. Richard Pattenaude, president and CEO of Ashford University. “We are proud of all our graduates, and it is an honor to be able to meet our graduates and watch each of them walk across the stage and receive the diploma they worked so hard to achieve.”

The ceremony capped off a celebratory weekend that began on April 30 with a variety of events for graduates and their families at Ashford’s headquarters in Kearny Mesa.

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.