However, it does have something I've never seen at any other institution of higher learning, namely, a trademarked name. It's not Ashford University, it's Ashford University®. And although it was founded way back in 1918, it has another up-to-the-minute trait, namely, a Mission Statement. I quote: "The mission of Ashford University® is to provide accessible, affordable, innovative, high-quality learning opportunities and degree programs that meet the diverse needs of individuals pursuing integrity in their lives, professions, and communities."
This grand pronouncement is supported by not one but half a dozen "Purpose Statements," the first of which is enough to tell you where it sits on the political axis: "To foster a vigorous, diverse learning environment shaped by contemporary awareness, intellectual inquiry, and a shared search for truth ... led by qualified faculty and staff who are guided by contemporary scholarship and professional practice."
Is this outfit legit, you may be asking. Well, Ashford is "regionally accredited" by The (yep, they initial-cap the "the") Higher Leaning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, and is a member of something called the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (academic credit for "real-life experience," anyone?) -- whose logo, oddly enough, contains a graphic that looks a bit like a B-2 or an F-117:
And, best for last ... (gettin' hard to keep the finners on the keyboard here...) Ashford University® is located in ... Clinton, Iowa.