Online college alumnus recognized as 'outstanding graduate'

Online college alumnus recognized as 'outstanding graduate'

Earlier this week, officials at Ashworth College, an accredited online education provider, announced that alumnus Ervisa Ritt has been named "outstanding graduate" and will receive a certificate of recognition from the Distance Education and Training Council (DETC).

Ritt, who is both an active duty member of the armed forces and a military spouse, received her associates degree in criminal justice from Ashworth and is currently enrolled in their online bachelors degree program.

"Ervisa is a great example of how online education can easily become part of everyday life and successfully balance family, career and studies," said Gary Keisling, Ashworth College chairman and CEO. "She is clearly a role model and we're proud to have her as an alumna."

Ritt is among 45 graduates from 37 accredited DETC member schools to be awarded the honor this year. The DETC annually recognizes online graduates who have excelled in their professional career.

The online education sector grew by 17 percent in 2008, according to the 2009 Sloan Survey. Approximately 4.6 million students were enrolled in at least one online course in the fall of 2008.

By Mark Danson