St. Louis, MO (PRWEB) May 03, 2013

Dr. Susan Aldridge, Senior Fellow at the American Association of State Colleges and Universities in Washington, DC and past president of the University of Maryland University College (UMUC), was recently honored by the United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) with the 2013 Hall of Fame Award “for her significant contribution to the field of distance learning through leadership, technology, research and teaching”.

USDLA presented the Award to Dr. Susan Aldridge in conjunction with the 2013 National Conference in St. Louis, Missouri. USDLA is a 501(c) 3 non-profit association, founded in 1987, as the nations leading distance learning organization. The association reaches 20,000 people globally with sponsors and members operating in and influencing 46% of the $ 913 billion dollar U.S. education and training market.

“In Dr. Susan Aldridges years of professional experience, her accomplishments have contributed immeasurably in laying the successful foundation for distance learning and its application within the educational community, said Dr. John G. Flores, Executive Director of USDLA. Dr. Aldridge has raised the bar of excellence and we are truly honored by her commitment and contributions to the distance learning industry.”

The USDLA Awards were created to acknowledge major accomplishments in distance learning and to highlight those distance learning instructors, programs, and professionals who have achieved and demonstrated extraordinary results through the use of online, videoconferencing, satellite and blended learning delivery technologies.

This years USDLA Hall of Fame recipient, Dr. Susan Aldridge, represents one of the finest examples of leadership in the field. The depth and breadth of the USDLA membership allows us to engage with leaders from higher education, K-12, industry, military, and government who daily demonstrate the power of distance learning. We are very proud and excited to be able to recognize this level of excellence,” said Dr. Rob Robinson, President of USDLA.

Dr. Aldridge is a nationally and internationally recognized academic leader in higher education. She has led some of the largest global universities in the US, launching online programs in cutting-edge areas such as cyber security. Dr. Aldridge serves as Senior Fellow at the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU). Her research, writing and consultation are in the areas of online learning, sustainable university business models, international education and university leadership. AASCU is a national membership organization of 430 US state colleges and universities, based in Washington, DC.

USDLA has been the forum for innovation, collaboration, and forward-leaning pioneers in technology-enhanced education. For over 20 years we have worked globally to increase access to education, to improve teaching and help students learn utilizing exciting new technology. I am humbled and honored to be recognized by such distinguished colleagues, said Dr. Susan Aldridge.

Dr. Denzil Edge, Chair of USDLA Board of Directors noted that, This years award winners represent many of the most innovative leaders in the field of distance learning.

About Dr. Susan Aldridge

Dr. Susan Aldridge is an internationally recognized thought leader in the field of higher education, and is committed to expanding learning opportunities to underserved populations by delivering strategic counsel to universities, businesses and organizations worldwide. Dr. Aldridge is based in Washington, D.C. Visit Dr. Aldridges blog for her personal insight and views of technology-mediated higher education, global University governance and more.

About the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU)

The American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU) represents more than 400 public colleges, universities and systems of higher education throughout the United States and its territories. Members of AASCU work to extend higher education to all citizens, including those who have been traditionally underrepresented on college campuses. By Delivering Americas Promise, these institutions fulfill the expectations of a public university by working for the public good through education and engagement, thereby improving the lives of people in their community, their region and their state.

About United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)

The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA) is a 501(c) 3 non-profit association formed in 1987 and is located in Boston, Massachusetts. The association reaches 20,000 people globally with sponsors and members operating in and influencing 46% of the $ 913 billion dollar U.S. education and training market. USDLA promotes the development and application of distance learning for education and training and serves the needs of the distance learning community by providing advocacy, information, networking and opportunity. Distance learning and training constituencies served include pre-k-12 education, higher and continuing education, home schooling as well as business, corporate, military, government and telehealth markets. The USDLA trademarked logo is the recognized worldwide symbol of dedicated professionals committed to the distance learning industry.