The Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) recently recognized Columbia Southern University (CSU) graduate Fred Kasper as its Outstanding Graduate during the commission’s annual DEAC conference in Indianapolis April 24-26.
The conference featured an awards ceremony that recognized individuals and outstanding graduates from the DEAC’s accredited educational organizations. CSU graduate Kasper was among the outstanding graduates honored based on contributions to their career fields, public interests served and how they have used their degrees to advance their personal and professional lives. CSU President Ken Styron presented the award to Kasper at the conference.
Kasper, who resides in Manchester, Tennessee, is a decorated veteran who served more than 25 years in the military. He graduated in early 2015 with an MBA in health care management from Columbia Southern University, an online university based in Alabama.
“Achieving my MBA in health care management gave me additional confidence in sharpening my skills as they applied to my job at the time, which was serving as a master chief in the U.S. Navy where I was responsible for the management, supervision, and administration for over 24 hospital departments,” said Kasper.
After retiring, Kasper decided to become a health care consultant. “I have always possessed a deep sense of duty and passion to help others. With my MBA, I wanted to capitalize on my experiences and further my medical career where I could make the biggest impact for the greatest amount of people.”
Vicki Barnes, director of Community and Alumni Relations at CSU, led the university selection of Kasper for this award and attended the presentation. “Fred represents some of the best qualities of our military veterans and we are proud of him and honored he sought us for his education,” she said.
Kasper earned the Military Order of the Purple Heart and was inducted into the National Purple Heart Hall of Fame. He has earned several medals of commendation and veteran group awards. He serves on the Board of Directors of Tennessee Honor Flight, volunteers with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, and holds office in several veterans’ groups. He also founded and directs the Coffee County, Tennessee, Food Pantry for veterans.
Disclaimer: These testimonials may not reflect the experience of all CSU students.
Multiple factors, including prior experience, geography, and degree field, affect career outcomes.
CSU does not guarantee a job, promotion, salary increase, eligibility for a position, or other career growth.
