When University of the Rockies, one of Bridgepoint’s academic institutions, moved from Colorado Springs to Denver, it was important for them to immediately get involved in the Denver community. Bridgepoint Education, which is the parent company of Ashford University and University of the Rockies, places education as a top priority. Many Ashford University, Bridgepoint and University of the Rockies employees have children that attend DPS schools and since education is so vitally important to them, partnering with the Denver Public Schools Foundation seemed like a natural fit.
Bridgepoint has long held education as one of its core values, and has partnered with various DPS schools over the last several years as a part of the DPS Foundation’s Schools Partners Program. Last year, Bridgepoint was paired with Smith Renaissance School, painting the entire playground, outside rails and doorways, mulching all the trees, prepping the garden, cleaning out storage closets, and also replanting and cleaning up the school’s entrance. This year, Bridgepoint did the same for Harrington Elementary. Not only is Bridgepoint involved in school makeovers that give students a sense of pride, but they are also very involved in literacy efforts. The partnership started four years ago when the company volunteered for Power Lunch. It was so successful and the employees enjoyed it so much, that a couple years later, Bridgepoint joined the DPS Foundation’s Tutormate program as well. In addition to weekly tutoring sessions, Bridgepoint had a team of employees run in the Colfax Marathon in support of DPS students, and this year raised over $1,000. This year, one of their runners even won the 5k race! This past April, Bridgepoint also sponsored and attended the annual Achieve Gala. Bridgepoint is a true example of what a holistic partnership truly is for the DPS Foundation.
Bridgepoint volunteer Michelle McCarty on her experience as a Power Lunch reading volunteer says, “My little buddy had an infectious smile and you could feel the anticipation as we came into the room. I loved it when we made eye contact and I got to see that smile. To be afforded that opportunity to be in a classroom and work with children was a real joy for me. I always looked forward to my time with my buddy. One day I was sick and had lost my voice. She did most of the reading that day and we also spent a little time where I taught her some sign language!”
Community service and philanthropy are core pillars for Bridgepoint, and giving back is a collective activity. Currently almost 100% of the Bridgepoint staff donates their time or money to DPS students.
About Bridgepoint: Bridgepoint Education, Inc. harnesses the latest technology to reimagine the modern student experience. Bridgepoint owns two academic institutions – Ashford University and University of the Rockies. Together, these programs, technologies, and resources represent a unique model for advancing education in the 21st century. Bridgepoint stands for greater access, social learning, and exposure to leading minds.
The DPS Foundation extends our gratitude to Bridgepoint Education for their commitment to DPS, and for modeling the type of multi-faceted, deep engagement that makes the School Partners Program so powerful.
