CHICAGO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Kaplan University online students came together today to celebrate their academic achievements at the University’s 2014 Summer Commencement held at the historic Chicago Theatre. More than 6,500 graduates were celebrated for earning Associate, Bachelor or Master Degrees from the Schools of Business, General Education, Graduate Education, Health Sciences, Information Technology, Nursing and Social and Behavioral Sciences.
Desiree Rogers, CEO of Johnson Publishing Company and former White House Social Secretary, delivered the keynote address to more than 700 graduates in attendance. Thousands more graduates and their families watched and celebrated from around the world via a live webcast.
Presiding over the ceremonies, Kaplan University President Dr. Wade Dyke recognized the graduates’ accomplishments. “You didn’t let anything get in the way. The most important part is you finished what you started,” Dyke said.
During the 2013-2014 academic year, Kaplan University conferred over 13,000 degrees and more than 800 certificates and diplomas.
The ceremonies can be viewed at www.graduation.kaplan.edu
Kaplan University also hosted a military reception and coin presentation on Friday evening as part of the graduation celebrations. Sergeant First Class (retired) Leroy A. Petry, recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor for combat gallantry in Afghanistan, addressed graduates and their families. All graduating military students receive a Kaplan University Challenge Coin.
About Kaplan University
Kaplan University offers a different school of thought for higher education. It strives to help adult students unlock their talent by providing a practical, student-centered education that prepares them for careers in some of the fastest-growing industries. The University, which has its main campus in Davenport, Iowa, and its headquarters in Chicago, is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (www.ncahlc.org) and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Kaplan University serves approximately 43,000 online and campus-based students. The University has 13 campuses in Iowa, Indiana, Nebraska, Maryland, Maine, and Wisconsin, and Kaplan University Learning Centers in Maryland and Missouri.
Kaplan University is part of Kaplan Higher Education LLC and Kaplan, Inc., a leading international provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools and businesses. Kaplan’s higher education institutions serves approximately 60,000 students online and through 56 campus-based schools across the United States and offer a spectrum of academic opportunities, from certificates and diplomas to graduate and professional degrees, including a juris doctor degree. Kaplan serves students of all ages through a wide array of offerings including higher education, test preparation, professional training and programs for kids in grades K-12. Kaplan, Inc. is a subsidiary of Graham Holdings Company and its largest division. For more information, visit www.kaplanuniversity.edu.