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Ready to ApplyDebra Stewart
Master of Business Administration, 2007
Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology, 2009
Director of Wellness, Teacher, Speaker, and PhD Candidate
Director of Wellness, Teacher, Speaker, and PhD Candidate
"I have the confidence to compete on any level in business management."
Then, life dealt her a whole new challenge. "My husband was diagnosed with heart problems and dementia," Stewart explains. "I wasnt sure that I could manage the added responsibility and expense of going to school. I knew I could not attend a traditional learning environment because I did not want to spend too much time away from my husband - I had become his caregiver."
So she made a smart move and contacted Ashford University's senior enrollment advisor, Margie Tlapa. "My enrollment advisor was so kind. I told her my story, and I knew that she understood that I had just one chance to complete my degree given the time and resources available for me." Margie at Ashford was inspired and touched by Stewart's life story, and she did everything she could to prepare her, which included making admissions and financial aid as simple as possible. Stewart appreciates the guidance. "I trusted her, and she guided me through the process, and was there for me for every question and uncertainty."
Once at Ashford, Stewart went above and beyond the call of duty and excelled as a student, and it shows in the results she has produced. "I finished my BS and went on to complete my MBA. I was promoted in my job. I have the confidence to compete on any level in business management."
As for the future, Stewart is not interested in being complacent with her professional development. "I have started a second Master's program in teaching so that I can eventually teach online while I stay at home and care for my husband."
"Ashford University changed my life!"
Update:
Though Debra's husband passed away in March 2011, her goals have not waivered. Debra, 55, has now earned two Master's degrees from Ashford – a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Arts in Teaching and Learning with Technology. But she is not stopping there. She is currently enrolled in a Doctor of Psychology program at University of the Rockies, specializing in both Educational Leadership and Health and Wellness! She received a promotion after completing her MBA and is now the Director of Wellness, which provides her with the opportunity to facilitate a new wellness initiative for her employer. She has also begun teaching both online and in traditional classrooms, has started a company that offers corporate wellness programs to organizations, and has written a book – "Learning Styles Inventory Tool" – which explores new approaches for advanced dementia care. Further, Debra has begun to accept speaking engagements – she already spoke at the Ohio Assisted Living Association, and will speak at the Ohio Health Care Association in May 2011. "I feel that my education has helped me to serve the marginalized at a level that I never thought possible," says Debra. Clearly, she is living proof of the incredible accomplishments that can come from hard work and determination!
Debra Stewart is an alumnus of Ashford University who travelled to Ashford's corporate headquarters for a photo shoot. Ashford University paid for travel expenses.