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Gov. Bill Richardson Addresses 1,000 Kaplan University Graduates During Live Commencement in Miami

MIAMI, Feb. 5, 2011 - Bill Richardson, former governor of New Mexico, delivered the keynote address at Kaplan University's winter 2011 commencement ceremony at the James L. Knight Center in Miami. Richardson referenced his path from student to governor and told the approximately 1,000 graduates in attendance that "when you combine diversity and creativity with energy, commitment and a strong work ethic, there is no limit to what you can do." More than 5,600 Kaplan University students graduated this term, many of them joining the ceremony via a live webcast from their homes around the country and the world. (Photo: Business Wire)

"I feel very strongly about providing opportunities and increasing access to education, which Kaplan University does very efficiently and very effectively. And what they've done is adapt to a changing world and respond to the needs of students - to your needs," Richardson added.

Many of the graduates who attended the live ceremony had the opportunity to meet their peers and professors face-to-face for the first time. More than 5,600 Kaplan University students graduated this term, many of them joining the ceremony via a live webcast from their homes around the country and the world.

Richardson served New Mexico as governor for two terms, and prior to that served as U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, U.S. Energy Secretary and represented New Mexico's 3rd Congressional District for 15 years. Throughout his service to the U.S., Richardson successfully won the release of hostages, American servicemen, and prisoners in North Korea, Iraq, Cuba and Sudan. He has also been nominated several times for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Kaplan hosts two graduations per year for its fully online students; one in Chicago and the other in South Florida. The University also has 11 campuses in Iowa, Nebraska, Maryland and Maine that host graduations throughout the year.

The student speaker at the commencement was graduate Carrie Breault, from Lehigh Acres, Fla., who earned her bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and maintained a 3.90 GPA. Breault juggled financial challenges, parental responsibilities and long work hours during her program at Kaplan. She was selected from an impressive group of graduates to share her story of how small choices lead up to great change.

"Life is a series of choices, as we complete our journey here at Kaplan University and embark on the next stage of our lives," said Breault, who began her educational journey more than 20 years ago at a small community college in central Michigan. "Either beginning our new careers or continuing on with our education, the small choices we make along the way will lead us to great changes for not only ourselves, but our families, and others who may cross our paths."

Wade Dyke, D.Phil., president of Kaplan University, praised all of the students for their hard work and continued dedication to achieving higher education.

"In total, ten-thousand students, including you, realized the dream of earning a college degree at Kaplan University in 2010," Dyke said. "Most of our students have had to balance the demands of life - work, children and family - with the rigors of your academic program. To the 1,000 of you who made the trip to Miami - to the family and friends here to participate in our largest ever commencement ceremony - and to all who are watching on the web, congratulations!"

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 has more than 125 academic programs and offerings, and serves more than 75,000 online and campus-based students. The University has 11 campuses in Iowa, Nebraska, Maryland and Maine, and Kaplan University Learning Centers in Wisconsin, Indiana, Missouri and Florida.

Kaplan University is part of Kaplan Higher Education, which serves more than 100,000 students online and through more than 70 campus-based schools across the United States and abroad. Kaplan Higher Education schools offer a spectrum of academic opportunities, from certificates and diplomas to graduate and professional degrees, including a juris doctor degree. Kaplan Higher Education is part of Kaplan, Inc., a leading international provider of educational and career services for individuals, schools and businesses. Kaplan, Inc. is a subsidiary of The Washington Post Company (NYSE: WPO), and its largest and fastest-growing division. For more information about Kaplan University, visit www.kaplanuniversity.edu.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=6599984&lang=en

Kaplan University
Stacey Kovalsky, 954-515-3651
Cell: 954-562-0214
skovalsky@kaplan.edu