WASHINGTON, May 23, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- American Public University System -- a 100-percent online, distance learning institution headquartered in Charles Town, W.Va. -- graduated more students Saturday than ever before. The University System includes American Military University and American Public University and serves more than 15,000 students worldwide.
"This is a tremendous time in our university's history," says Wallace E. Boston Jr., president and chief executive officer. More than 900 distance learning graduates -- studying from all 50 states and many countries around the world -- earned bachelor's and master's degrees in public safety, homeland security, disaster management and emergency response, and more.
"We continue to serve more and more adult learners, with proven academic excellence. Many of our students are facing the ultimate challenge," adds Boston. "They're serving our country in uniform, or in public service, while earning their online degrees."
Speakers and awards
Graduation ceremonies were held at the Army Navy Country Club, Arlington, Va. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. John Castellaw was the keynote speaker. Castellaw -- an American Military University alumnus himself -- is deputy commandant for Marine Corps aviation.
Michael Pixley received the Distance Education and Training Council's 2006 outstanding graduate of the year award. He earned a master's degree in military studies, with a concentration in air warfare. He chose distance learning with American Military University for his interest in military studies. He is the lead performance analyst for Raytheon Missile System Co.'s AIM-9X Sidewinder air-to-air missile.
Lt. Col. Laura Ryan received the 2006 award for outstanding creativity and innovation. She earned her master's degree in strategic intelligence from American Military University through distance learning in 2003. Recently promoted, Ryan will soon assume command of the 18th Intelligence Squadron, Vandenberg Air Force Base, Calif. She currently is the executive officer to the Air Intelligence Agency/Joint Information Operations Center commander at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas.
About the University System
American Public University System (www.apus.edu) provides relevant and affordable distance learning -- taught by professors who are experienced in the real-world subjects they teach. Students study for careers in homeland security, intelligence, national security, criminal justice, emergency management, business and more.
The University System is hosting a symposium, "Homeland Security: The Ripple Effect," Feb. 6-7, 2007 in Washington, D.C.
Russell Public Relations
Lynn Woolf
316-542-0485
lynn@russellpr.com