Kaplan Graduates 1,894 Online Students, Largest Class in University's History

Business Wire, Feb 2, 2008

Newsweek Editor Jon Meacham Delivers Commencement Address

MIAMI -- Hundreds of Kaplan University online graduates from around the country, and as far away as Hawaii, gathered in Miami today to celebrate their academic achievements during the University's winter commencement at the James L. Knight International Center. Newsweek Editor and author Jon Meacham, the commencement speaker, urged the graduates to take stock in how far they had come and how far they needed to go.

"One does not seek education if one doesn't believe in the future," he said in a speech infused with history, politics and faith. "If you didn't believe that tomorrow could be better than today ... then why invest a single moment in learning. You believe in the promise of the future ... you are making that [promise] a reality. That makes you part of a vibrant tradition" in this country.

The students, adorned in caps and gowns, met face-to-face and mingled with many of their classmates and instructors for the first time. They were awarded master's, bachelor's, and associate's degrees as well as certificates in business, paralegal studies and education, among other fields. Kaplan hosts two graduations a year for its fully online students; one in South Florida during the winter and the other in Chicago in the summer.

During the student commencement address, graduate Katherine M. Getchel of Connecticut, who works as a nurse manager, told the audience how her Kaplan experience inspired in her a new vision of education that has strengthened her service to nurses, patients and the community.

"I have learned more [online] at Kaplan than I would have in a traditional setting. I have discussed best practices with professionals from around the country in such a warm environment," said Getchel, who earned her bachelor's degree in nursing online and is now pursuing her master's degree in nursing at the University. "Kaplan has provided me with a better understanding, a new direction, an awakening ... Never will I look at education the same way."

Getchel works fulltime at MidState Medical Center in Meriden, Conn., and serves as a parish nurse. She is also a member of the Middlesex County (Conn.) Reserve Corps, which was established after Sept. 11 to provide medical support and enhance emergency medical response in the event of a disaster.

Andrew S. Rosen, CEO and President of Kaplan University, applauded the accomplishments of all of the graduates.

"Today's graduates, every one of you, have a unique story," Rosen said. "Among you are military officers and spouses who earned degrees while deployed, aspiring teachers and business professionals, single moms and Baby Boomers. But as different as you are, you share the common belief that education has the power to change lives."

Rosen acknowledged some of the graduates, including Roberto Sasso of Miami who earned his bachelor's in criminal justice while traveling throughout Latin America to conduct training for international law enforcement officers and Robert Saydee, a native of Liberia who earned his bachelor's degree in Information Technology and raises money to send books to Liberian schools.

The University also recognized faculty member Jeff Tyler of the Graduate School of Management, who received Outstanding Faculty Awards for his tireless commitment to his students and colleagues.

Kaplan University, based in Davenport, Iowa, is regionally accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA). The University offers more than 100 academic programs and currently serves more than 38,000 online and on-ground students, with support centers in Fort Lauderdale, Chicago and Phoenix. To learn more, visit www.kaplanuniversitynews.com.

About Kaplan Higher Education

Kaplan University is part of Kaplan Higher Education, which serves more than 75,000 students through 70 campus-based schools across the United States and in Europe. It also has online programs through Kaplan Virtual Education and Concord Law School of Kaplan University. Kaplan Higher Education schools offer a spectrum of academic opportunities, from high school diplomas to graduate and professional degrees, including a Juris Doctor degree. Kaplan Higher Education is part of Kaplan, Inc., a subsidiary of The Washington Post Company (NYSE: WPO). For more information, visit www.kaplan.com.