Lisa Ashbrook

Lisa Ashbrook, ′07 Management

An accelerated format and adult evening program transformed alumna Lisa Ashbrook from a plant worker to a business owner.

"I graduated from Angola High School and immediately went to work in a manufacturing plant for the next eight years," she said. "I had been laid off by my Fremont employer, and decided I had a choice — go back to school and obtain a degree or continue to work in manufacturing for the rest of my life. I decided I wanted more from my life, so I went back to school to obtain a degree in business."

Tri–State offered the courses she needed to keep a full–time job and still spend time with her family. "The evening program allowed me to focus on one or two classes at a time," she said.

The university experience fit her like a glove. "I enjoyed attending Tri–State very much. I met many new people who were also adults returning to school years after graduating high school. I had excellent professors who were very knowledgeable and brought real–life experiences into the classroom with them. I now own an American Family Insurance agency, and use my college experiences and education continually."

Her business degree equipped her with the tools for success. "I started in December 2006 with a 'scratch' agency," she said. "I had zero clients or policies when I opened! I had to utilize the marketing skills I learned at Tri–State to grow my business. I needed to understand how to manage employees and my finances. As owner, I was responsible for all aspects of the business. Four years into it, we are running strong. We have over 1,600 policies and continue to grow. This would not have been possible if I had not decided to attend Tri–State. I gained a lot of confidence, and graduated magna cum laude. It was a very proud experience that I worked very hard to achieve."

Being a business owner enriches her personal life and the lives of others. "I enjoy spending my free time with my husband and five children. We have a very busy household," she said. "I am passionate about helping others. I am committed to giving my clients the best possible service and help. I want to exceed their expectations, and believe at this agency, we do."