Media Room

The Senate of the 129^th General Assembly of Ohio praised University of the Rockies student Debra Stewart on receiving the Graduate Recognition for Excellence, Achievement, and Talent (GREAT) Award from the Association of Private Sector Colleges and Universities (APSCU).

“You are a remarkable individual, combining civic concern and dedication with selfless initiative to become a dynamic leader in your field...Willingly giving of your time, energy, and abilities, you have striven to better the world around you, and through your generous contributions, you have earned the respect and esteem of the entire community,” stated a proclamation signed by Senator Tom Niehaus, President of the Ohio Senate, and Senator Bill Beagle, 5^th Senatorial District.

Stewart received the APSCU GREAT Award, the organization’s highest honor, in a Capitol Hill

ceremony in March attended by Congressman Fred Upton and Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy. She also met with her elected representatives to the U.S. House and Senate; Senator Rob Portman, and staff members from the office of Speaker John Boehner and the office of Senator Sherrod Brown. The GREAT award recognizes recent graduates of private sector colleges and universities who have overcome great odds to achieve their educational dreams.

Stewart is currently enrolled at University of the Rockies in the Doctor of Psychology program with specializations in both Educational Leadership and Health and Wellness Psychology.

“Debra Stewart is an excellent example of how University of the Rockies helps inspired professionals become the next generation’s leaders. We are proud to have her as part of our highly specialized and passionate team,” said Charlita Shelton, president of University of the Rockies.

Stewart is the director of wellness for the St. Leonard Senior Living Community, where she was instrumental in facilitating the non-profit organization’s certification as the first Vital Life Community in the nation. She also teaches for Sinclair Community College, owns a company called Picture Yourself Stronger that offers corporate wellness programs to various organizations, and serves on the advisory boards of Mental Health Technology and Vital Nation.

About University of the Rockies

University of the Rockies is an advanced graduate institution for tomorrow’s thought leaders. The University provides an intimate and dynamic learning environment, offering highly specialized master’s and doctoral degree programs in the social and behavioral sciences, access to industry experts, campus clinical programs for practical experience, and research and publishing opportunities. University of the Rockies is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association (www.ncahlc.org). Small by design, University of the Rockies classes are presented in a progressive online format and at its Colorado Springs, Colorado, campus. For more information, please visit www.rockies.edu or call Shari Rodriguez, associate vice president of Public Relations, at 866.621.0124 x2513.