UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549


FORM 10-K/A

(Amendment No. 1)


þ

ANNUAL REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the fiscal year endedApril 30, 2017

2020


or


¨

TRANSITIONREPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934

For the transition period from ___________ to ___________

Commission file number000-55107

001-38175

ASPEN GROUP, INC.

(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Its Charter)

Delaware

27-1933597

Delaware

27-1933597
State or Other Jurisdiction of

Incorporation or Organization

I.R.S. Employer Identification No.

1660 South Albion Road,276 Fifth Avenue, Suite 525, Denver, CO

505, New York, New York

80222

10001

Address of Principal Executive Offices

Zip Code


(303) 333-4224

(646) 448-5144
(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act: Common Stock, par value $0.001

Title of each classTrading Symbol(s)Name of each exchange on which registered
Common Stock, par value $0.001ASPU
The Nasdaq Stock Market
(The Nasdaq Global Market)
Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act: None

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act.  Yes ¨    No þ

Indicate by check mark if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Act.  Yes ¨    No þ

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.  Yes þ     No ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has submitted electronically and posted on its corporate web site, if any, every Interactive Data File required to be submitted and posted pursuant to Rule 405 of Regulation S-T (§ 232.405 of this chapter) during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to submit and post such files).  Yes þ    No ¨

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405 of Regulation S-K (§ 229.405 of this chapter) is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the best of the registrant’s knowledge, in definitive proxy or information statements incorporated by reference in Part III of the Form 10-K or any amendment to the Form 10-K.  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a large accelerated filer, an accelerated filer, a non-accelerated filer, smaller reporting company, or an emerging growth company. See the definitions of “large accelerated filer,” “accelerated filer,” “smaller reporting company, and emerging“emerging growth companycompany” in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act.

Large accelerated filer ¨

Accelerated filer ¨

Non-accelerated filer ¨  (Do not check if a smaller reporting company)

☑ 

Smaller reporting company þ

Emerging growth company ¨

If an emerging growth company, indicate by check mark if the registrant has elected not to use the extended transition period for complying with any new or revised financial accounting standards provided pursuant to Section 13(a) of the Exchange Act.  ¨

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant has filed a report on and attestation to its management’s assessment of the effectiveness of its internal control over financial reporting under Section 404(b) of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act (15 U.S.C. 7262(b)) by the registered public accounting firm that prepared or issued its audit report. ¨
Indicate by check mark whether the registrant is a shell company (as defined in Rule 12b-2 of the Act).  Yes ¨    No þ

State the aggregate market value of the voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to the price at which the common equity was last sold, or the average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of the registrant’s most recently completed second fiscal quarter. Approximately $30.4$108 million based on $3.00.

a closing price of $6.25 on October 31, 2019.

The number of shares outstanding of the registrant’s classes of common stock, as of July 24, 201713, 2020 was 13,612,35422,240,993 shares.









EXPLANATORY NOTE



This Amendment No. 1 on Form 10-K/A (the “Amendment”) amends ourthe Annual Report on Form 10-K (the “2020 Form 10-K”) of Aspen Group, Inc. (the “Company”) for the year ended April 30, 2017 (“2017 Form 10-K”2020 (the “2020 Fiscal Year”), as filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on July 25, 2017.7, 2020. We are filing this Amendment to amend Part III of the 20172020 Form 10-K to include the information required by and not included in Part III of the 20172020 Form 10-K because we do not intend to file our definitive proxy statement within 120 days of the end of our fiscal year ended April 30, 2017.


the 2020 Fiscal Year. Part II. Item 9B also contains information required by Items 5.02(b), 5.02(d) and 5.02(e), as permitted by the rules of the SEC.


In addition, the Exhibit Index in Item 15 of Part IV of the 20172020 Form 10-K is hereby amended and restated in its entirety and currently dated certifications required under Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 are filed as exhibits to this Amendment. Because no financial statements are contained within this Amendment, we are not filing currently dated certifications pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.



Except as described above, no other changes have been made to the 20172020 Form 10-K. The 20172020 Form 10-K continues to speak as of the date of the 20172020 Form 10-K, and we have not updated the disclosures contained therein to reflect any events which occurred at a date subsequent to the filing of the 20172020 Form 10-K other than as expressly indicated in this Amendment.








1


PART II
ITEM 9B. OTHER INFORMATION.

On July 8, 2020, the Board of Directors of the Company (the “Board”) determined that the Board shall consist of eight directors with two vacancies and appointed Messrs. Douglas Kass and Michael Koehneman to fill these vacancies, effective immediately. Mr. Kass was also appointed member of the Regulatory Committee of the Board and Mr. Koehneman was appointed member of the Audit Committee and the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee (the “Corporate Governance Committee”) of the Board. See “Part III. Item 10 Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance – Director Biographies” for the biographical information for Messrs. Kass and Koehneman. There are no transactions between each Mr. Kass and Mr. Koehneman and the Company disclosable under Item 404(a) of Regulation S-K and no arrangement or understanding under which thee were selected. See “Part III. Item 11. Executive Compensation – Compensation of Directors” for information regarding compensatory arrangements with the directors. On July 13, 2020, Malcolm F. MacLean IV, a director, advised the Company of his decision to resign from the Board, effective immediately.

On July 8, 2020, the Board also awarded discretionary bonuses to executive officers. See “Part III. Item 11. Executive Compensation – Discretionary Bonus” for the discussion of these bonuses.
2


PART III


Item

ITEM 10. Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance


DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

The following table represents our Board of Directors:


Directors (the "Board"):

Name

Age

Position

Name

AgePosition
Michael Mathews

55

58

Chairman of the Board

Michael D’Anton

Frank J. Cotroneo

60

61

Director

Norman D. Dicks

75

79

Director

C. James Jensen

76

79

Director

Andrew Kaplan

51

54

Director

Malcolm F. MacLean IV

Doug Kass

47

71

Director

Sanford Rich

Michael Koehneman

59

60

Director

John Scheibelhoffer

Sanford Rich

55

62

Director

Rick Solomon

56

Director




Director Biographies



Michael Mathews has served as Aspen Group’sthe Company’s Chief Executive Officer and a director since March 2012 and as Chief Executive Officer of Aspen University Inc. (“Aspen University”), a subsidiary of the Company, since May 2011. He served as Chief Executive Officer of interclick, inc.Interclick, Inc. (“Interclick”) (Nasdaq: ICLK) from August 28, 2007 until January 31, 2011. From June 2007 until it was acquired by Yahoo, Inc. (NASDAQ:(Nasdaq: YHOO) in December 2011, Mr. Mathews also served as a director of interclick.Interclick. From May 15, 2008, until June 30, 2008, Mr. Mathews served as the interim Chief Financial Officer of interclick.Interclick. From 2004 to 2007, Mr. Mathews served as the senior vice-president of marketing and publisher services for World Avenue U.S.A., LLC, an Internet promotional marketing company. Mr. Mathews was selected to serve as a director due to his knowledge of the for profit education industry, his commitment to a “debt free” education,“making college affordable again”, his track record of success in managing early stage and growing businesses, his extensive knowledge of the online education Internet marketing industriesindustry and his knowledge of running and serving on the boards of public companies.


Michael D’Anton


Frank J. Cotroneohas served as a director of Aspen Groupthe Company since March 2012December 2018 and as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer since December 1, 2019. Mr. Cotroneo is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Aspen University for approximately 10 years. Since 1988, Dr. D’AntonCore Business Consulting, LLC, a consulting firm, which he founded in 2004, specializing in strategic and financial planning, business development, capital restructuring, third party vendor management, enterprise resource planning and financial systems implementation, internal control improvements, risk management, and leadership development. Mr. Cotroneo has been an ENT physicianmore than 30 years of business and surgeon at ENT Allergy Associates. Dr. D’Antonsenior management experience, including serving as the Chief Financial Officer of Acxiom Corporation (currently LiveRamp Holdings, Inc.), H&R Block and MasterCard International Inc., and serving as the Chairman of the Audit Committee of Interclick, Inc. (Nasdaq: ICLK). Mr. Cotroneo was selected to serve as a director fordue to his extensive senior executive management experience in growing and running a successful surgery centeraccounting, internal control and his knowledge of Aspen University from serving as a director prior to the 2011 Reverse Merger.


financial expertise.


Norman D. Dicks has served as a director since November 17, 2016. He was a member of the United States House of Representatives for approximately 36 years. He has served as Senior Policy Advisor to law firm Van Ness Feldman LLP since 2013, advising clients on a wide-range of public policy, strategic, and regulatory issues, particularly those in the environmental sector. Prior to joining the firm, Congressman Dicks represented Washington State's 6thState’s 6th Congressional District from 1977-2013, where1977 to 2013, during which time he received a first-term appointment to the House Appropriations Committee, a committee he served on for his entire tenure in Congress. In addition, Congressman Dicks served on and chaired the Interior Appropriations Subcommittee, where he made environmental issues a priority, and worked on issues affecting the National Parks, National Forests, and Native American issues. Congressman Dicks also becamewas the chair of the Defense Appropriations Committee, and concluded his tenure in Congress as top-ranking Democratic Member on the Defense Appropriationsthat Committee, and top-ranking Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee. From 1990 to 1998, Congressman Dicks served on the House Intelligence Committee and was awarded the CIA Directors Medal. Upon his retirement, Congressman Dicks received the Department of Defense Distinguished Public Service Medal, the highest honor bestowed upon a civilian, for his work on behalf of military members and their families. Congressman Dicks was appointed a director for his experience and expertise on a wide range of public policy, strategic and regulatory issues. Given the regulatory nature of our business, Congressman Dicks’ experience provides invaluable insight and advice to the Board and management through this critical time as we prepare to offerregarding our debtless education solution to adults across America.



3





C. James Jensen has served as a director of Aspen Groupthe Company since March 2012 and of Aspen University since May 2011. Since 1983, Mr. Jensen has beenHe also serves as Chairman of the managing partnerExecutive Committee of Mara Gateway Associates, L.P., a privately owned real estate investment company he co-founded. Today, Mr. Jensen provides executive coaching, consulting, and advisory services to emerging growth and mid-size companies.the Board. He is an active member of the World Presidents'Presidents’ Organization, serves on the board of directorsa life director of the Institute of Noetic Sciences, and is Vice Chairman of American Global Health Group. He is also the author of the book 7 KEYS To Unlock Your Full Potential. Mr. Jensen was selected as a director due to his previous service on public company boards and his experience with entrepreneurial companies. Mr. Jensen is also the author of 7 KEYS To Unlock Your Full Potential. (www.unlock7keys.com).





Andrew Kaplan has served as a director of Aspen Groupthe Company since June 2014. Since January 1, 2015, Mr. Kaplan has been a Managing General Partner in Education Growth Partners, a private equity firm focused exclusively on the education and training industry. From July 2000 through March 2014, Mr. Kaplan was a partner in Quad Partners or Quad,(“Quad”) a private equity firm focused exclusively on the education industry. During his tenure with Quad, Mr. Kaplan also served as a Managing Director of Quad College Group, the operational team focused on Quad’s postsecondary portfolio. SinceFrom March 2014 to December 2014, Mr. Kaplan has beenwas a consultant to the education industry. Mr. Kaplan was selected as a director for his extensive knowledge of the educationaleducation industry.

Douglas Kass was appointed as director on July 8, 2020, effective July 13, 2020. Since January, 2002 Mr. Kass has been the President of Seabreeze Partners Management, Inc., which, up to July, 2013, was a hedge fund sponsor and the General Partner of Seabreeze Partners, LP. Seabreeze currently manages individual accounts. Since June 2019, Mr. Kass has served on the board of directors of MVC Capital, Inc. (NYSE: MVC), a non-diversified, closed-end management investment company. From July 2011 through May 2014 until June 2015,2017, Mr. Kaplan, through an entity he controls,Kass served on the board of directors of Empire Resources Inc. (formerly Nasdaq: ERS), a distributor of value added, semi-finished metal products. Mr. Kass was selected as a consultantdirector due to Aspen.


Malcolm F. MacLean IVhis prior experience serving on boards of directors of several organizations as well as his background in finance.

Michael Koehneman was appointed as director on July 8, 2020, effective July 13, 2020. Prior to his recent retirement, Mr. Koehneman previously held various positions at Pricewaterhouse Coopers, a global accounting firm (“PwC”), including the Global Advisory Chief Operating Officer and Human Capital Leader from 2016 through 2019, the U.S. Advisory Operations Leader from 2005 through 2016, and the Lead Engagement Partner for Financial Statement Audits and Internal Control and Security Reviews from 1993 through 2004. Mr. Koehneman was selected as a director due to his background in accounting and technology.

Sanford Rich has served as a director of Aspen Group since November 17, 2016. Mr. MacLean is the Managing Partner and Director of Tokyo-based Star Asia Group, which Mr. MacLean co-founded in 2006. Mr. MacLean is responsible for the day-to-day investment activities at the firm as co-Chair of the Investment Committee. Mr. MacLean is also the co-Founder and Managing Member of Taurus Capital Partners LLC, based in Los Angeles, which makes opportunistic investments in public and private companies, partnerships and other structured vehicles. Mr MacLean was selected as a director for his extensive investment banking experience, history of entrepreneurial success and large business operational expertise.


Sanford Rich has served as a director of Aspen GroupCompany since March 2012. Since January 2016 Mr. Rich has served as the Executive Director of the New York City Board of Education Retirement System. From SeptemberNovember 2012 to January 2016, Mr. Rich has served as the Chief of Negotiations and Restructuring for the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (US.(a United States Government Agency). From October 2011 to September 2012, Mr. Rich served as Chief Executive Officer of In The Car LLC.Mr. Rich served as a director of interclickInterclick from August 28, 2007 until June 5, 2009 and as Audit Committee Chairman from August 2007 to June 2009. From February 2009 to December 2012 Mr. Rich was a Managing Director of Whitemarsh Capital Advisors, a broker-dealer. SinceFrom April 2006 to April 2020, Mr. Rich has served as a director and Audit Committee Chairman for InsPro Technologies (OTCQB: ITCC). Mr. Rich was selected as a director for his 35 years of experience in the financial sector and his experience serving on the audit committees of public companies.


John Scheibelhoffer has served as a director of Aspen Group since March 2012 and of Aspen University for approximately 10 years. Since 1996, Dr. Scheibelhoffer has been a physician and surgeon employed by ENT Allergy Associates. Dr. Scheibelhoffer was selected to serve as a director for his experience in running a successful surgery center and his knowledge of Aspen University from serving as a director prior to the 2011 Reverse Merger.


Rick Solomon has served as a director of Aspen Group since March 2014. From May 2009 until May 2014, Mr. Solomon served as a portfolio manager at Verition Fund, a multi-strategy, multi-manager investment platform. Mr. Solomon was selected as a director for his experience in the investment industry.



Executive Officers


Name

Age

Position

Name

AgePosition
Michael Mathews

55

58

Chief Executive Officer

Janet Gill

Frank J. Cotroneo

61

Chief Financial Officer

Robert Alessi

49Chief Accounting Officer
Dr. Cheri St. Arnauld

60

63

Chief Academic Officer

Gerard Wendolowski

32

34

Chief Operating Officer

Anne McNamara67Chief Nursing Officer



See "Director Biographies" above for Mr. Michael Mathews’ biography and Mr. Frank J. Cotroneo’s biography.


Janet Gill has been Aspen Group’s


Robert Alessi was appointed Chief FinancialAccounting Officer sinceof the Company on December 11, 2014 and prior to1, 2019. Previously from July 15, 2019 until that served as the interim Chief Financial Officer beginning March 11, 2014. From September 2012 until March 11, 2014, Ms. Gilldate, Mr. Alessi was the Company’s Vice President and Controller. From 2003 until August 2012, Ms. Gill was a consultant for Resources Global Professionals, a professional services firm that helps business leaders execute internal initiatives. Previously, Ms. Gill was employed as a director of finance at Verizon and as an audit supervisor at Price Waterhouse Coopers. Ms. GillMr. Alessi is a Certified Public Accountant (inactive)
4


(“CPA”) in the State of New York.




Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Alessi served as the Vice President and Financial Controller for Prometheus Global Media, a New York City based media company, from August 2017 through June 2019. Mr. Alessi was previously the Controller for FunctionX, Inc., a social publishing and interactive media platform from January 2017 through August 2017. Between August 2015 and December 2016, Mr. Alessi worked as a Financial Consultant for Anchor Consultants. From May 2015 through July 2015 Mr. Alessi worked for Milestone Consultants. From May 2014 through April 2015, Mr. Alessi performed part time financial consulting and accounting services. From February 2007 through April 2014 Mr. Alessi was the Vice President and Financial Controller at KCAP Financial, Inc., a Business Development Company.



Cheri St. Arnauld has been Aspen Group’sthe Company’s Chief Academic Officer since June 11, 2017. Dr. St. Arnauld previously served as Aspen University’s Chief Academic Officer beginning March 6, 2014. From January 2012 until March 6, 2014, Dr. St. Arnauld was an educational consultant for the St. Arnauld Group. From August 2008 until Januaryto 2012, Dr. St. Arnauld was the Provost and Chief Academic Officer atof Grand Canyon University.



Gerard Wendolowski has been Aspen Group’sthe Company’s Chief Operating Officer since March 11, 2014. From May 2011 until March 11, 2014, Mr. Wendolowski served as Aspen University’s Senior Vice President of Marketing and Business Development.

Anne McNamara was appointed Chief Nursing Officer of the Company on October 31, 2019 and has served as Chief Nursing Officer of Aspen University Inc., our wholly-owned subsidiary, since June 2018. Dr. McNamara’s principal duties are to lead and oversee our hybrid online/campus pre-licensure BSN nursing program including its expansion. From January 2008 until May 2011, Mr. Wendolowski served as2017 to date, she has been the Vice President of MarketingMcNamara Solutions, LLC, a consulting firm whose principal client was Aspen University until she became an employee.From April 2015 to December 2016, Dr. McNamara was Academic President of Galen School of Nursing. From March 2007 to October 2014, Dr. McNamara was Dean and a Professor at Atrinsic, Inc., a digital marketing firm.


Grand Canyon University’s College of Nursing and Health Professions.


Family Relationships


There are no family relationships among our directors and/or executive officers.



Board Responsibilities



The Board oversees, counsels, and directs management in the long-term interest of Aspen Groupthe Company and its shareholders. The Board’s responsibilities include establishing broad corporate policies and reviewing the overall performance of Aspen Group.the Company. The Board is not, however, involved in the operating details on a day-to-day basis.


In December 2017, our Board established an Executive Committee which, subject to the limitations of Delaware law, has since performed the functions of the Board.


Board Committees and Charters



The Board and its committees meet throughout the year and act by written consent from time to time as appropriate. The Board delegates various responsibilities and authority to its Board committees. Committees regularly report on their activities and actions to the Board. The Board currently has and appoints the members of:of the following standing committees: the Executive Committee, the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee, the Regulatory Oversight Committee and the Corporate Governance Committee. Each of the committees, except for the Executive Committee, has a written charter approved by the Board. The charters of the Audit Committee, the Compensation Committee and the Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee (the “Nominating Committee”). Each of the committees have a written charter approved by the Board which can be found on our corporate website at http://ir.aspen.edu/www.aspu.com/governance-docs.



The following table identifies the independent and non-independent current Board and committee members:




Name

Independent

Audit

Compensation

Nominating

Michael Mathews

Name

Independent

Executive

Audit

Compensation

Regulatory

Governance

Michael D’Anton

Mathews

ü

ü

Frank J. Cotroneo

Norman D. Dicks

P

ü

P

ü

P

C. James Jensen

P

ü

P

ü

P

Chairman

Chairman

Andrew Kaplan

P

ü

P

P

Chairman

ü

Malcolm F. MacLean IV

Doug Kass

P

ü

P

ü

Sanford Rich

Michael Koehneman

P

ü

Chairman

P

Chairman

John Scheibelhoffer

Sanford Rich

P

ü

P

Chairman

ü

Rick Solomon

ü

ü

P



5


Director Independence



With the exception of Michael Mathews and Frank J. Cotroneo, our Board has determined that all of the directors are independent in accordance with standardsas such term is defined under theThe Nasdaq Listing Rules.


Stock Market Rules (the “Nasdaq Rules”).


Our Board determined that as a result of being employed as an executive officer, Mr.officers of the Company, Messrs. Mathews isand Cotroneo are not independent under the Nasdaq Listing Rules.



Our Board has also determined that Rick Solomon,Messrs. Sanford Rich, andAndrew Kaplan, C. James Jensen and Michael Koehneman meet the independence requirements under the Nasdaq Rules and the heightened independence requirements for Audit Committee members under the rule of the SEC. Also, our Board has determined that Messrs. C. James Jensen and Norman D. Dicks are independent under the Nasdaq Listing Rules independence standards for Audit Committee members. Also, our Board has also determined that C. James Jensen, Norman D. Dicks and John Scheibelhoffer are independent under the Nasdaq Listing Rulesrelating to independence standards for Compensation Committee members.







Committees of the Board of Directors



Executive Committee

The function of the Executive Committee is to provide a committee for the Company which can approve corporate actions efficiently or in a timely fashion when the full Board is unavailable. The Executive Committee was established in December 2017.

Audit Committee


Management has the primary responsibility for the financial statements and the reporting process, including the system of internal controls. The Audit Committee reviews Aspen Group’sthe Company’s financial reporting process on behalf of the Board and administers our engagement of the independent registered public accounting firm. The Audit Committee meets with the independent registered public accounting firm, with and without management present, to discuss the results of its examinations, the evaluations of our internal controls, and the overall quality of our financial reporting. Management has the primary responsibility for the financial statements and the reporting process, including the system of internal controls.



Audit Committee Financial Expert



Our Board has determined that Mr. SanfordMessrs. Rich isand Koehneman are each qualified as an Audit Committee Financial Expert, as that term is defined byunder the rules of the SEC and in compliance with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002.


Compensation Committee



The function of the Compensation Committee is to determine the compensation of our executive officers. The Compensation Committee has the power to set performance targets for determining periodic bonuses payable to executive officers and may review and make recommendations with respect to shareholder proposals related to compensation matters. Additionally, the Compensation Committee is responsible for administering the 2012 Equity Incentive Plan (the “Plan”“2012 Plan”) and the 2018 Equity Incentive Plan (the “2018 Plan” and together, the “Plans”).



Corporate Governance and Nominating Committee



The responsibilities of the NominatingCorporate Governance Committee include the identification of individuals qualified to become Board members, the selection of nominees to stand for election as directors, the oversight of the selection and composition of committees of the Board, establishestablishing procedures for the nomination process including procedures, oversight of possible conflicts of interests involving the Board and its members, developdeveloping corporate governance principles, and the oversight of the evaluations of the Board and management. The NominatingCorporate Governance Committee has not established a policy with regard to the consideration of any candidates recommended by shareholders. If we receive any shareholder recommended nominations, the NominatingCorporate Governance Committee will carefully review the recommendation(s) and consider such recommendation(s) in good faith.



Regulatory Committee

Since our business is highly regulated, our Board established the Regulatory Committee in October 2019 to assist the Board in meeting its fiduciary duties. Its principal role is to monitor management’s regulatory compliance and communicate with our counsel including our regulatory counsel and bring matters that may be pertinent to the attention of the Board.

Board and Committee Meetings in Fiscal Year 2020

6


In Fiscal 2020 the Board had seven meetings, the Compensation Committee and the Corporate Governance Committee each had one meeting, the Regulatory Committee had one meeting, the Audit Committee had seven meetings, and the Executive Committee and Special Committee on Insiders only acted by written consent during Fiscal 2020.

There were no directors (who were incumbent at the time) except for Malcolm MacLean, who attended fewer than 75 percent of the aggregate total number of Board meetings and meetings of the Board committees of which the director was a member during Fiscal 2020.

Board Diversity



While we do not have a formal policy on diversity, our Board considers diversity to include the skill set, background, reputation, type and length of business experience of our Board members as well as a particular nominee’s contributions to that mix. Our Board believes that diversity brings a variety of ideas, judgments and considerations that benefit Aspenthe Company and its shareholders. Although there are many other factors, the Board seeks individuals with experience on public company boards or the investment community, experience on operating growing businesses, and experience with online universities.


Board Leadership Structure



We have chosen to combine the Chief Executive Officer and Board Chairman positions. We believe that this Board leadership structure is the most appropriate for Aspen Group.the Company. Because we are a small company, it is more efficient to have the leadership of the Board in the same hands as the Chief Executive Officer. The challenges faced by us at this stage – implementing our business and marketing planplans and continuing and managing our growth – are most efficiently dealt with by one person who is familiar with both the operational aspects as well as the strategic aspects of our business.



Board Role in Risk Oversight



Our risk management function is overseen by our Board. Our management keeps its Board apprised of material risks and provides its directors access to all information necessary for them to understand and evaluate how these risks interrelate, how they affect us, and how management addresses those risks. Mr. Michael Mathews, as our Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board, works closely together with the Board once material risks are identified on how to best address such risks. If the identified risk poses an actual or potential conflict with management, our independent directors may conduct the assessment. Presently, the primary risks affecting us are our ability to growcontinue growing our business, including our programs which have higher long-term values, manage our working capital together with the expansion of our hybrid campus program, increase our enrollment and class starts, reduce the dependence on the continued growth of our nursing school and manage our expected growth consistent with regulatory oversight. In addition, while not under the direct control of our Board, there is the regulatory risk that our planned acquisition of United States University may not be approved. Assuming we complete the acquisition, integration of United States University and our ability to grow its business will be material risks our Board will be required to focus on.






Code of Ethics



Our Board has adopted a Code of Ethics that applies to all of our employees, including our Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer. Although not required, the Code of Ethics also applies to our directors. The Code of Ethics provides written standards that we believe are reasonably designed to deter wrongdoing and promote honest and ethical conduct, including the ethical handling of actual or apparent conflicts of interest between personal and professional relationships, full, fair, accurate, timely and understandable disclosure and compliance with laws, rules and regulations, including insider trading, corporate opportunities and whistleblowing or the prompt reporting of illegal or unethical behavior. We will provide a copy, without charge, to anyone that requests onea copy of our code of ethics in writing toby contacting Aspen Group, Inc., 1660 South Albion Road,276 Fifth Avenue, Suite 525, Denver, CO 80222,505, New York, New York 10001, Attention: Corporate Secretary.



Delinquent Section 16(a) Beneficial Ownership Reporting Compliance


Reports


Section 16(a) of the Exchange Act requires our directors, executive officers, and persons who own more than 10% of our common stock to file initial reports of ownership and changes in ownership of our common stock and other equity securities with the SEC. These individuals are required by the regulations of the SEC to furnish us with copies of all Section 16(a) forms they file. Based solely on a review of the copies of the forms furnished to us, and written representations from reporting persons, we believe that all filing requirements applicable to our officers, directors and 10% beneficial owners were complied with during fiscal year 2017Fiscal 2020 that except that one Form 4 for Form 4sRobert Alessi was not timely filed due in September 2016 related to the extension of a total of 13 stock option grants to the Company’s executive officers and directors detailed below. The late filings were inadvertent and were a result of omission by the Company’s counsel to file as instructed. The following details the name of the Section 16 filer and the number of late transactions: (i) Michael Mathews – 5, (ii) Janet Gill – 1, (iii) Gerard Wendolowski – 2 (iv) Michael D’Anton – 2, (v) Sanford Rich – 1, (vi) John Scheibelhoffer – 1, and (vii) James Jensen – 1.


an administrative error.


Communication with our Board of Directors



Although we do not have a formal policy regarding communications with the Board, shareholders may communicate with the Board by writing to us at Aspen Group, Inc., 1660 South Albion Road,276 Fifth Avenue, Suite 525, Denver, CO 80222,505, New York, New York 10001, Attention: Corporate
7


Secretary. Shareholders who would like their submission directed to a member of the Board may so specify, and the communication will be forwarded, as appropriate.



Risk Assessment Regarding Compensation Policies and Practices as they Relate to Risk Management



Our compensation program for employees does not create incentives for excessive risk taking by our employees or involve risks that are reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on us. Our compensation has the following risk-limiting characteristics:


·

Our base pay programs consist of competitive salary rates that represent a reasonable portion of total compensation and provide a reliable level of income on a regular basis, which decreases incentive on the part of our executives to take unnecessary or imprudent risks;

·


A portion of executive incentive compensation opportunity is tied to long-term incentive compensation that emphasizes sustained performance over time. This reduces any incentive to take risks that might increase short-term compensation at the expense of longer term company results;

·


Awards are not tied to formulas that could focus executives on specific short-term outcomes;

·


Equity awards may be recovered by us should a restatement of earnings occur upon which incentive compensation awards were based, or in the event of other wrongdoing by the recipient; and

·


Equity awards, generally, have multi-year vesting which aligns the long-term interests of our executives with those of our shareholders and, again, discourages the taking of short-term risk at the expense of long-term performance.






Item

ITEM 11. Executive Compensation


EXECUTIVE COMPENSATION.

The following information is related to the compensation paid, distributed or accrued by us for the fiscal 2017year ended April 30, 2019 (the "2019 Fiscal Year") and 2016the fiscal year ended April 30, 2020 (the "2020 Fiscal Year") to allour Chief Executive OfficersOfficer (principal executive officers)officer) serving during the last fiscal year and the twothree other most highly compensated executive officers serving at the end of the last fiscal year whose compensation exceeded $100,000 (the “Named Executive Officers”).


Summary Compensation Table for Fiscal 2017


Name and
Principal Position
(a)

 

 

Year
(b)

 

 

Salary
($)
(c)

 

 

Bonus
($)
(d)(1)

 

 

Option
Awards
($)
(f)(2)

 

 

Total
($)
(j)

 

 

  

  

                      

  

  

                      

  

  

                      

  

  

                      

  

  

                      

 

Michael Mathews (3)

 

 

2017

 

 

 

287,496

 

 

60,000

 

 

 

88,266

 

 

 

435,762

 

Chief Executive Officer

 

 

2016

 

 

 

200,000

 

 

 

 

 

90,000

 

 

 

290,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cheri St. Arnauld (4)

 

 

2017

 

 

 

247,000

 

 

30,000

 

 

 

35,000

 

 

 

312,000

 

Chief Academic Officer

 

 

2016

 

 

 

240,000

 

 

 

 

 

60,000

 

 

 

300,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gerard Wendolowski (5)

 

 

2017

 

 

 

240,333

 

 

30,000

 

 

 

103,204

 

 

 

373,537

 

Chief Operating Officer

 

 

2016

 

 

 

200,000

 

 

 

 

 

42,000

 

 

 

242,000

 















8


Summary Compensation Table
Name and Principal Positions (a)Year (b)Salary $ (c)Bonus $ (1) (d)Stock Awards $ (e)Option Awards $ (2) (f)All Other Compensation $ (i)Total $ (j)
Michael Mathews2020$327,844  $30,000  $474,500  $—  $112,680  (3)$945,024  
Chief Executive Officer2019$324,998  $30,143  $—  $512,000  (4)$79,920  (5)$947,061  
 
Frank J. Cotroneo2020$159,999  (6)$—  $1,148,225  (7)$—  $—  $1,308,224  
Chief Financial Officer
Cheri St. Arnauld2020$302,625  $30,000  $355,875  $—  $—  $688,500  
Chief Academic Officer2019$300,000  $30,178  $—  $460,800  $—  $790,978  
Gerard Wendolowski2020$302,625  $30,000  $355,875  $—  $—  $688,500  
Chief Operating Officer2019$300,000  $30,142  $—  $460,800  $—  $790,942  
———————

(1)

Bonuses.Represents cash bonuses.


bonuses paid during the fiscal year covered.


(2)

Option Awards. These amounts do not reflect the actual economic value realized by the Named Executive Officers. The amounts in this column represent the fair value of the award as of the grant date as computed in accordance with FASBthe Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") ASC Topic 718 and the SEC disclosure rules. Pursuant to SEC rules, the amounts shown disregard the impact of estimated forfeitures related to service-based vesting conditions.


(3)

Mathews.The amount under Option Awards represents 346,299 stock options of which expiration dates were extended and exercise prices re-priced in September 2016. See below for a further description of the amendment"Note 12. Stockholders' Equity" to the stock options.


(4)

St. Arnauld. The amount under Option Awards represents 58,334 five-yearaudited financial statements for the 2020 Fiscal Year included in the 2020 Form 10-K for the assumptions used in calculating the grant date fair value of stock options granted to Dr. St. Arnauld. These optionsemployees and directors which are exercisable at $1.99 per share and vest in three equal increments on June 23, 2017, June 23, 2018, and June 23, 2019, subject to continued employment on each applicable vesting date.


(5)

Wendolowski.FASB ASC Topic 718 requirements.


(3) The Company currently provides and intends to continue to provide perquisites that it feels are necessary to enable the Named Executive Officers to perform their responsibilities efficiently, to minimize distractions and help build a successful culture and business. We believe the benefit, financial or otherwise, the Company receives from providing these perquisites significantly outweighs the cost of providing them. This amount under Option Awards represents 166,667includes $5,200 per month paid to Mr. Mathews as a housing allowance in the Phoenix, Arizona area which Mr. Mathews used instead of a hotel, as Mr. Mathews split his time during Fiscal 2020 between the Phoenix and New York offices given the majority of the Company’s employees are based in Phoenix. The Compensation Committee approved this arrangement since the cost of a hotel and meals would have exceeded the rental amount. Additionally, this amount includes a total of $16,800 in country club dues in the Phoenix area which the Company paid in accordance with the approval of the Compensation Committee. On a monthly basis, employees of the Phoenix office used the country club as part of a shared team-building experience. Mr. Mathews reimbursed the Company for personal expenses he incurs at the country club. These sums are disclosed in this Summary Compensation Table pursuant to the SEC Staff’s interpretations, even though the payment of these expenses resulted in a benefit to the Company and saved the Company money. Effective May 1, 2020, the Board approved a $7,000 per month housing allowance for Mr. Mathews to cover the estimated expenses he incurs in maintaining a home in the New York City area. Since Mr. Mathews is now an Arizona resident, the prior housing allowance was terminated. The new housing allowance expires upon the earlier of the sale of Mr. Mathews’ New York home or April 30, 2021.

(4) Includes five-year stock options to purchase 200,000 shares of common stock granted in July 2018 exercisable at $7.55 per share that were cancelled in March 2019 with Mr. Mathews’ consent. These stock options were cancelled in order to increase the number of shares which remain available for future awards under the Aspen Group, Inc. 2012 Equity Incentive Plan and Mr. Mathews did not receive any value in exchange for the cancellation.

(5) This amount includes $5,200 per month paid to Mr. Wendolowski. These options are exercisable at $1.99 per shareMathews as a housing allowance in the Phoenix, Arizona area which Mr. Mathews used instead of a hotel, as Mr. Mathews split his time during Fiscal 2020 between the Phoenix and vest in three equal increments on June 23, 2017, June 23, 2018, and June 23, 2019, subject to continued employment on each applicable vesting date. Option Awards also includes 12,501 stock options of which expiration dates were extended and exercise prices re-priced in September 2016. See below for a further descriptionNew York offices given the majority of the amendment toCompany’s employees are based in Phoenix. The Compensation Committee approved this arrangement since the stock options.


On September 13, 2016,cost of a hotel and meals would have exceeded the Company extended for 39 months from their original expiration date,rental amount.Additionally, this amount includes a total of 410,020 stock options held by employees and directors$16,800 for 2019 Fiscal Year in country club dues in the Phoenix area which the Company paid in accordance with the approval of the Compensation Committee. On a monthly basis, employees of the Phoenix office used the country club as part of a shared team-building experience.Mr. Mathews reimbursed the Company for personal expenses he incurs at the country club.

9


These sums are disclosed in this Summary Compensation Table pursuant to the SEC Staff’s interpretations, even though the payment of these expenses resulted in a benefit to the Company and saved the Company money.

(6) Mr. Cotroneo was appointed Chief Financial Officer effective December 1, 2019. Includes $35,000 paid to Mr. Cotroneo for Board and committee service prior to his appointment as Chief Financial Officer.

(7) Includes the grant date fair value of restricted stock units granted on February 4, 2020 of 75,000 restricted stock units, December 1, 2019 grant to Frank J. Cotroneo upon his becoming Chief Financial Officer, of 100,000 restricted stock units, and the grant date fair value of the restricted stock award to Mr. Cotroneo for Board and committee service prior to becoming Chief Financial Officer, of 15,000 restricted stock units, which approximately 356,865 stock options were held by vested upon him becoming Chief Financial Officer; in each case computed in accordance with FASB ASC Topic 718 and the SEC disclosure rules.

Named Executive Officers. As part of the extension, the option exercise prices were adjusted to Fair Market Value on the date of the extension and the original vesting period re-commenced.


Post-Fiscal Year End Grants to Named Executive Officers


On May 13, 2017, theOfficer Employment Agreements


The Company grantedhas entered into Employment Agreements with Michael Mathews, Dr.Frank J. Cotroneo, Cheri St. Arnauld and Gerard Wendolowski 200,000, 70,000 and 200,000 five-year stock options, respectively, exercisable at $4.90 per share. The options vest annually over three years (withWendolowski. Set forth below is the first vesting date being May 13, 2018), subject to continued employment on each applicable vesting date.


On June 11, 2017,description of the Company granted Cheri St. Arnauld 30,000 five-year stock options exercisable at $6.28 which vest quarterly over a three-year period in 12 equal increments withmaterial terms of the first vesting date being on September 11, 2017, subject to continued service as an executive officer on each applicable vesting date.





Named Executive Officer Employment Agreements


Agreements.


Michael Mathews. From May 16, 2013 until May 16, 2016, Michael Mathews had an Employment Agreement whereby Mr. Mathews was paid an annual base salary of $100,000 until it was increased to $250,000 in September 2015.


Effective November 1, 2016, Aspen Group entered into a three-yearThe Employment Agreement with Mr. Mathews replacingeffective November 1, 2016 provides that he will serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the Company for a period of three years, subject to an automatic renewal for successive one-year terms unless prior notice of non-renewal is given by either party. Pursuant to his prior Employment Agreement which expired May 16, 2016. In accordance with this new Employment Agreement, Mr. Mathews receives an annual base salary of $325,000.


Cheri St. Arnauld


Frank J. Cotroneo. From March 1, 2014 until March 1, 2017, Dr. St. Arnauld had anMr. Cotroneo entered into a three-year Employment Agreement whereby Dr. St. Arnauld was paid a base salaryeffective December 1, 2020, subject to an automatic renewal for successive one-year terms unless prior notice of $120,000 on an annualized basis for the first six months of the Employment Agreement and after this six month period she began receivingnon-renewal is given by either party. He receives an annual base salary of $240,000 which$300,000 and was thereafter increasedeligible to $264,000 on January 1, 2017.


Effectivereceive a Target Bonus as if he was employed during the full fiscal year.


Cheri St. Arnauld. Pursuant to her Employment Agreement effective June 11, 2017, Aspen Group and Dr. St. Arnauld entered intowill serve as the Chief Academic Officer of the Company for a new three-year Employment Agreement. In accordance with this newperiod of three years, subject to an automatic renewal for successive one-year terms unless prior notice of non-renewal is given by either party. Pursuant to her Employment Agreement, Dr. St. Arnauld receives an annual base salary of $300,000.



Gerard Wendolowski. Effective Mr. Wendolowski’s Employment Agreement effective November 11, 2014, Aspen Group andprovides that he will serve as the Chief Operating Officer of the Company for a period of three years, subject to an automatic renewal for successive one-year terms unless prior notice of non-renewal is given by either party. Mr. Wendolowski entered into a three-year Employment Agreement. Under the Employment Agreement, Mr. Wendolowski received an annualWendolowski’s base salary of $200,000. Effective July 1, 2016, Aspen Group increased Mr. Wendolowski’s annual base salary from $200,000 to $240,000 which was thereafter increased to $264,000 on January 1, 2017 and thereafter to $300,000 on June 11, 2017.



Bonuses



Target Bonus

For each fiscal year during the term of the Named Executive Officers’ Employment Agreements beginning May 1st1 and ending April 30th30 of the applicable fiscal year, theeach Named Executive Officers shall haveOfficer has the opportunity to earn a bonus up to 30%, 66% or 100% of his or her then base salary (the “Target Bonus”) as follows:


follows.


When the Company achieves annual Adjusted EBITDA (as defined in their Employment Agreements) at certain threshold levels (each, an “EBITDA Threshold”), the Named Executive Officers shall receive an automatic cash bonus (the “Automatic Cash Bonus”) equal to a percentage of his or her then base salary, and shall receive a grant of fully vested shares of the Company’s common stock having an aggregate Fair Market Value (as such term is defined in the Plan) equal to a percentage of the Named Executive Officer’s then base salary (the “Automatic Equity Bonus”). In addition, the Named Executive Officers shall be eligible to receive an additional percentage of his then Base Salary as a cash bonus (the “Discretionary Cash Bonus”) and an additional grant of fully vested shares of the Company’s common stock having an aggregate Fair Market Value equal to a percentage of the Named Executive Officers’ then base salary (the “Discretionary Equity Bonus”) based on the Board’s determination that the Named Executive Officer has achieved certain annual performance objectives established at the beginning of each fiscal year. There were no performance objectives set for 2016 or 2017.



The EBITDA Thresholds and corresponding bonus levels are set forth in the table below. For the avoidance of doubt, the Named Executive Officer shall only be eligible to receive the bonuses associated with a single EBITDA Threshold; i.e. in the event the Company attains EBITDA Threshold (2), only the bonuses associated with EBITDA Threshold (2) below (and not the bonuses associated with EBITDA Threshold (1)) shall be applicable.


EBITDA Threshold

Automatic Cash
Bonus

Automatic Equity
Bonus

Discretionary Cash
Bonus

Discretionary Equity
Bonus

$1,000,000 -$1,999,999

7.5%

7.5%

Up to 7.5%

Up to 7.5%

$2,000,000 -$3,999,999

16.5%

16.5%

Up to 16.5%

Up to 16.5%

$4,000,000 and over

25%

25%

Up to 25%

Up to 25%


Provided, however, that the


10


EBITDA ThresholdAutomatic Cash BonusAutomatic Equity Bonus
$1,000,000 - $1,999,9997.5 %7.5 %
$2,000,000 - $3,999,99916.5 %16.5 %
$4,000,000 and over25.0 %25.0 %

The earning of the Automatic Cash Bonus is subject to the Company having at least $2,000,000 in available cash after deducting the Target Bonuses paid to all executive officers of the Company or its subsidiaries under the same Target Bonus formula pursuant to such executives’ employment agreements (the “Cash Threshold”) and the executive officer continuing to provide services under their Employment Agreement on the applicable Target Bonus determination date. If the Company is unable to pay the Automatic Cash Bonus as a result of not meeting the Cash Threshold, no Automatic Cash Bonus will be earned for that fiscal year.






Under Mr. Mathews’ Employment Agreement,

For Fiscal 2020, the Automatic CashNamed Executive Officers waived the Target Bonus is structuredprior to exclude borrowings under the Company’s Line of Credit Agreement which are designed to meet the minimum cash requirement.


grant.


Discretionary Bonus

Each of the Named Executive Officers is entitledeligible to receive discretionary bonuses under their Employment Agreements atAgreements.

On July 8, 2020, based on the discretionrecommendation of the Compensation Committee. In fiscal 2017,Committee, the Named Executives Officers were each paidBoard awarded discretionary bonuses to the following executives:

NameCash BonusRSU Bonus
Michael Mathews$82,851  15,157  
Frank J. Cotroneo$74,250  13,584  
Dr. Cheri St. Arnauld$76,478  13,991  
Gerard Wendolowski$76,478  13,991  
Anne McNamara$61,875  11,320  

The cash bonuses as disclosedbonus is payable in equal quarterly installments in the Summary Compensation Table above.


year ending April 30, 2021. The RSUs cliff vest on July 8, 2023. All underlying shares of common stock will be delivered upon vesting, and all payments and vesting are subject to continued service with the Company on each applicable payment or vesting date. In the event of a change of control of the Company, all payments and vesting will accelerate. The RSUs were issued under the 2018 Equity incentive Plan.


Termination Provisions



Under their Employment Agreements, the Named Executive Officers are entitled to severance payments. All of the termination provisions are intended to comply with Section 409A of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, or the Code, and the Regulations thereunder.



In the event of dismissaltermination by the Company without cause“cause” or resignation for Good Reason:


·

Mr. Mathews will“good reason,” each of the Named Executive Officers is entitled to receive 12 months base salary, immediate vesting of unvested equity awards and continued benefits;


·

Dr. St. Arnauld will receivebenefits for six months base salary; and


·

Mr. Wendolowski will receive six months base salary.


Immediatelymonths.


In case of termination or change in title upon a change of control event:


·

Mr. Mathews willevent, each of the Named Executive Officers is entitled to receive 18 months base salary, immediate vesting of unvested equity awards, continued benefits for 18 months and 100% of the existing Target Bonus, if any, for that fiscal year when the change of control occurs.


·

Dr. St. Arnauld and Mr. Wendolowski will each receive three months base salary.


In the event Mr. Mathews’ Employment Agreement is terminated at the end of a term and he remains employed until the end of the Term, Mr. Mathews will be entitled to receive six months base salary.



Change of controlcontrol” is defined in theirthe Employment Agreements similar to the manner that change of controlsame way it is defined under Section 409A of the Code. Generally, Good Reason“good reason” is defined as a material diminution in the executives’Named Executive Officer’s authority, duties or responsibilities due to no fault of his or her own (unless he or she has agreed to such diminution); or (ii) any other action or inaction that constitutes a material breach by Aspen Groupthe Company under the Employment Agreement; or (iii) generally a relocation of the principal place of employment to a location outside of metropolitan New York, New York or ScottsdalePhoenix, Arizona area.

11


In the event employment is terminated at the end of the term upon the notice of non-renewal and a Named Executive Officer remains employed until the end of the term, such Named Executive Officer will be entitled to receive six months base salary and continued benefits for Dr. St. Arnauld.







six months.



Under the terms of the Employment Agreements, the Named Executive Officers are subject to non-competition and non-solicitation covenants during the term of their employment and during one year following termination of employment with the Company. The Employment Agreements also contain customary confidentiality and non-disparagement covenants.

Outstanding Equity Awards at Fiscal Year-End


Year End 2020


Listed below is information with respect to unexercised options that have not vested, and equity incentive plan awards for each Named Executive Officer outstanding as of April 30, 2017:


Outstanding Equity Awards At Fiscal Year-End


Name

(a)

 

Number of Securities
Underlying
Unexercised
Options
(#)
Exercisable
(b)

 

 

Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options

(#)

Unexercisable

(c)

 

 

Equity Incentive
Plan Awards:
Number of Securities
Underlying Unexercised
Unearned Options
(#)
(d)

 

 

Option
Exercise Price
($)
(e)

 

 

Option
Expiration Date
(f)

 

 

Number of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested
(#)

(g)

 

 

Market Value of Shares or Units of Stock That Have Not Vested

($)
(h)

 

 

Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Number of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights That Have Not Vested
(#)

(i)

 

 

Equity Incentive Plan Awards: Market or Payout Value of Unearned Shares, Units or Other Rights That Have Not Vested
(#)

(j)

 

                                      

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Michael Mathews

 

 

 

 

25,000

(1)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.52

 

 

6/15/20

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

41,667

(2)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.52

 

 

6/22/20

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

241,667

(3)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.52

 

 

12/4/20

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

24,076

(4)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.52

 

 

1/23/21

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

13,889

(4)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.52

 

 

1/23/21

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

108,333

 

 

54,167

(5)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.28

 

 

9/4/19

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

41,667

 

 

83,333

(6)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.10

 

 

12/11/20

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cheri St. Arnauld

 

 

41,667

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.28

 

 

3/1/19

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

27,777

 

 

55,556

(7)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.03

 

 

6/8/20

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

58,334

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.992

 

 

6/23/21

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gerard Wendolowski

 

 

 

 

8,334

(8)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.52

 

 

6/15/20

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4,167

(9)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.52

 

 

3/17/21

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12,500

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.28

 

 

2/28/18

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

41,667

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.28

 

 

3/1/19

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19,445

 

 

38,889

(10)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.0292

 

 

6/8/20

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

166,667

(11)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1.99

 

 

6/23/21

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2020. The vesting of all unvested options is subject to continued employment on each applicable vesting date.


Options AwardsStock Awards
Name (a)Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options (#) Exercisable (b)Number of Securities Underlying Unexercised Options
(#)
Unexercisabe (c)
Option Exercise Price ($) (e)Option Expiration Date (f)Number of Shares or Units of Stock that Have Not Vested (3) (g)Market Value of Shares of Units of Stock that Have Not Vested ($) (1) (h)
Michael Mathews25,000  —  $2.28  7/15/20100,000  $790,000  
41,667  —  $2.28  7/15/20
161,111  80,556  (2) $2.28  1/31/21
16,051  8,025  (3) $2.28  11/23/20
9,259  4,630  (4) $2.28  11/23/20
125,000  —  $2.10  12/11/20
133,333  66,667  (5) $4.90  5/13/22
Frank J. Cotroneo13,889  27,778  (6) $5.12  12/24/23175,000  $1,382,500  
Cheri St. Arnauld83,334  —  $2.02  6/08/2075,000  $592,500  
58,334  —  $1.99  6/23/21
27,500  2,500  (7) $6.28  6/11/22
46,667  23,333  (8) $4.90  5/13/22
60,000  120,000  (9) $7.55  7/19/23
Gerard Wendolowski4,167  —  $2.28  3/17/2175,000  $592,500  
58,334  —  $2.02  6/08/20
166,667  —  $1.99  6/23/21
133,333  66,667  (10) $4.90  5/13/22
60,000  120,000  (11) $7.55  7/19/23

———————


(1)

Vests in three equal increments Based on June 15, 2018, June 15, 2019 and June 15,$7.90 per share, the closing price of the Company’s common stock as of April 30, 2020.

(2)

Vests in three equal increments on June 22, 2018, June 22, 2019 and June 22, 2020.

(3)

Vests in three equal increments Remainder vests on December 4, 2018, December 4, 2019 and December 4,31, 2020.

(4)

Vests in three equal increments

(3) Remainder vests on October 23, 2018,2020.
(4) Remainder vests on October 23, 2019 and October 23, 2020.

(5)

Vests Remainder vests on September 4, 2017.

May 13, 2020.

(6)

Vests Remainder vests on June 11, 2020.

(7) Remainder vests in two equal increments on December 11, 201724, 2020 and December 11, 2018.

(7)

Vests24, 2021.

(8) Remainder vests on May 13, 2020.
(9) Remainder vests in two equal increments on June 8, 2017July 19, 2020 and June 8, 2018.  

(8)

Vests in three equal incrementsJuly 19, 2021.

(10) Remainder vests on March 14, 2018, March 14, 2019 and March 14,May 13, 2020.

(9)

Vests in three equal increments

12


(11) Remainder vests on December 17, 2018, December 17, 2019 and December17, 2020.

(10)

Vests in two equal increments on June 8, 2017July 19, 2020 and June 8, 2018.

(11)

Vests in three equal increments on June 23, 2017, June 23, 2018 and June 23, 2019.




July 19, 2021.



Director

Compensation


We do not pay cash compensation to our directors for service on our Board and our of Directors


Our employees do not receive compensation for serving as members of our Board. Our non-employee directors receive compensation for their service as directors and members of committees of the Board, consisting of cash and equity awards. Our non-employee directors can elect to receive equity instead of all or a portion of their cash compensation. Cash compensation is paid quarterly and equity compensation is paid in arrears. In December 2019, our Board of Directors awarded $35,000 in cash for calendar year 2020 payable quarterly in equal increments subject to continued service as of the applicable payment date and further subject to each applicable director having received grants totaling at least 100,000 options. The only directors receiving cash awards were Messrs. Jensen and Cotroneo. Directors are reimbursed for reasonable expenses incurred in attending meetings and carrying out duties as board and committee members. Under the Plan,Plans, our non-employee directors receive grants of stock options as compensation for their services on our Board, as described above. Because we do not pay compensation to employee directors, Mr. Michael Mathews was not compensated for his service as a director in Fiscal 2020 and is omitted from the following table.


Mr. Frank J. Cotroneo received a grant of Restricted Stock Units for his Board service in Fiscal 2017 Director Compensation


Name
(a)

 

 

Option

Awards

($)
(d)(1)

 

 

Total

($)
(j)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Michael D’Anton (2)(4)

 

 

 

23,379

 

 

 

23,379

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 Norman D. Dicks (3)

 

 

 

40,000

 

 

 

40,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

C. James Jensen (2)(4)

 

 

 

43,136

 

 

 

43,136

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Andrew Kaplan (2)(4)

 

 

 

33,333

 

 

 

33,333

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Malcolm F. MacLean IV (3)

 

 

 

40,000

 

 

 

40,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sanford Rich (2)(4)

 

 

 

36,936

 

 

 

36,936

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

John Scheibelhoffer (2)(4)

 

 

 

28,236

 

 

 

28,236

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Rick Solomon (2)(4)

 

 

 

35,400

 

 

 

35,400

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Paul Schneier (2)(5)

 

 

 

9,636

 

 

 

9,636

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

David Pasi (2)(5)

 

 

 

7,500

 

 

 

7,500

 

2020 prior to his appointment as the Chief Financial Officer.


In the 2020 Fiscal Year, non-employee members of our Board were compensated as follows:

Name (a)
Fees Earned or
Paid in
Cash
($) (b)
Stock
Awards
($) (1) (2) (c)
Option
Awards
($) (1) (2) (d)
Total
($) (j)
Norman D. Dicks (3)$—  $—  $24,700  $24,700  
C. James Jensen$35,000  $—  $—  $35,000  
Andrew Kaplan (3)$—  $20,831  $28,500  $49,331  
Malcolm F. MacLean IV (3) (4)$—  $—  $22,800  $22,800  
Sanford Rich (3)$—  $—  $30,400  $30,400  
———————

(1)

Amounts reported represent the aggregate grant date fair value of awards granted without regards to forfeitures granted to the independent members of our Board of Directors during fiscal 2017,the 2020 Fiscal Year, computed in accordance with ASC 718. This amount does not reflect the actual economic value realized by each director.


(2) The table below sets forth the director. As disclosed on page 7, a numbershares of restricted common stock and unexercised options held by employeeseach of our non-employee directors outstanding as of April 30, 2020.

NameAggregate Number of Restricted Stock Awards Outstanding at April 30, 2020Aggregate Number of Unexercised Option Awards Outstanding at April 30, 2020
Norman D. Dicks1,333  35,222  
C. James Jensen2,000  44,445  
Andrew Kaplan5,891  80,835  
Malcolm F. MacLean IV1,333  60,333  
Sanford Rich5,891  72,668  

(3) Represents the portion of cash compensation earned as of April 30, 2020. Pursuant to their election to receive shares of restricted common stock in lieu of $35,000 in cash compensation, Messrs. Dicks, Kaplan, MacLean and directors were extended and re-priced during the fiscal year. In connection with the re-pricing and extension, 46,905 stock options held by directors were amended.


(2)

On May 19, 2016, the specified directorRich each received a grant of 12,500 five-year10,000 stock options (exercisable at $1.92 per share) whichin December 2019. The stock options vest over a three year period in five equal annual increments (with the first vesting date being May 19, 2017),beginning on December 9, 2021, subject to continued service as a director of the Company, on each applicable vesting date. The Board approved the Board.


(3)

On November 29, 2016, the specified director received a grantacceleration of 41,667 five-yearvesting of Mr. MacLean’ stock options (exercisable at $3.24 per share) which vest overin connection with his resignation as a three year period in equal increments (with the first vesting date being November 29, 2017), subject to continued service on the Board.


director.


(4)

On April 14, 2017, the specified director received a grant of five-year stock options (exercisable at $4.32 per share) which vest on April 14, 2018, subject to continued service on Mr. MacLean resigned from the Board and, if applicable, as a Board committee member.


(5)

Resigned during fiscal year 2017.




effective July 13, 2020.




Equity Compensation Plan Information


13



The following chart reflects the number of securities granted and the weighted average exercise price for our compensation plans as of April 30, 2017.

Name Of Plan

 

Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, warrants and rights

(a)

 

 

Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights

(b)($)

 

 

Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (a))

(c)

 

Equity compensation plans approved by security holders

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2012 Equity Incentive Plan (1)

 

2,096,550

 

 

2.42

 

 

11,783

  

Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

2,096,550

 

 

2.42

 

 

11,783

 

———————

(1)

2020.



Name of Plan
Number of securities to be issued upon exercise of outstanding options, restricted stock units, warrants and rights
(a)
Weighted-average exercise price of outstanding options, warrants and rights
$ (b)
Number of securities remaining available for future issuance under compensation plans (excluding securities reflected in column (a))
(c)
Equity compensation plans approved by security holders
Aspen Group, Inc. 2012 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended (1)2,466,955$4.53  (3) 179,380
Aspen Group, Inc. 2018 Equity Incentive Plan (2)267,944$5.49  (3) 47,277
Equity compensation plans not approved by security holders—  —  
   Total2,734,899226,657
__________________

(1) Represents options issued under the Plan. Includes 1,755,494 options granted to current directors and executive officers.


On July 24, 2017, Aspen Group amended the Plan to increase the number of authorized shares under the 2012 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended. Includes 313,503 options and 5,131 shares of restricted stock granted to a totalcurrent directors and executive officers.


(2) Represents options issued under the 2018 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended. Includes 176,667 options, 22,872 shares of 3.5 million shares.


Itemrestricted stock and 395,000 restricted stock units granted to current directors and executive officers.


(3) The weighted-average exercise price does not take into account restricted stock units granted under the 2012 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended, or the 2018 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended.

ITEM 12. Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters


SECURITY OWNERSHIP OF CERTAIN BENEFICIAL OWNERS AND MANAGEMENT AND RELATED STOCKHOLDER MATTERS.

The following table sets forth the number of shares of Aspen Group’sthe Company’s common stock beneficially owned as of August 25, 2017July 13, 2020 by (i) those persons known by Aspen Groupthe Company to be owners of more than 5% of its common stock, (ii) each director, and director nominee, (iii) the Named Executive Officers (as disclosed in the Summary Compensation Table), and (iv) Aspen Group’sthe Company’s executive officers and directors as a group. Unless otherwise specified in the notes to this table, the address for each person is: c/o Aspen Group, Inc. 1660 South Albion Road,, 276 Fifth Avenue, Suite 525, Denver, CO 80222.

Title of Class

 

Beneficial

Owner

 

Amount of

Beneficial

Ownership (1)

 

 

Percent

Beneficially

Owned (1)

 

 

  

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

Named Executive Officers:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

Michael Mathews(2)

 

 

802,483

 

 

 

5.8

%

Common Stock

 

Cheri St. Arnauld(3)  

 

 

116,912

 

 

 

*

 

Common Stock

 

Gerard Wendolowski(4)

 

 

148,612

 

 

 

1.1

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Directors:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

Michael D’Anton(5)

 

 

244,125

 

 

 

1.8

%

Common Stock

 

Norman D. Dicks(6)

 

 

0

 

 

 

0

%

Common Stock

 

C. James Jensen(7)

 

 

213,855

 

 

 

1.6

%

Common Stock

 

Andrew Kaplan(8)

 

 

60,939

 

 

 

*

 

Common Stock

 

Malcolm MacLean(9)

 

 

619,464

 

 

 

4.6

%

Common Stock

 

Sanford Rich(10)

 

 

38,821

 

 

 

*

 

Common Stock

 

John Scheibelhoffer(11)

 

 

245,355

 

 

 

1.8

%

Common Stock

 

 Rick Solomon(12)

 

 

261,732

 

 

 

1.9

%

Common Stock

 

All directors and executive officers as a group (12 persons)(13)

 

 

2,893,965

 

 

 

19.8

%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5% Shareholders:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Common Stock

 

Leon G. Cooperman(14)

 

 

1,062,500

 

 

 

7.8

%

Common Stock

 

George Melas-Kyriazi(15)

 

 

1,032,716

 

 

 

7.6

%

Common Stock

 

Kinderhook 2 GP, LLC(16)

 

 

1,026,486

 

 

 

7.5

%

Common Stock

 

Goudy Park Management, LLC(17)

 

 

861,477

 

 

 

6.3

%

505, New York, New York 10001, Attention: Corporate Secretary.




14


Title of ClassBeneficial OwnerAmount of Beneficial Ownership (1)Percent Beneficially Owned (1)
Named Executive Officers:
Common StockMichael Mathews (2)1,188,4565.2 %
Common StockFrank J. Cotroneo (3)28,889*%
Common StockCheri St. Arnauld (4)243,2211.1 %
Common StockGerard Wendolowski (5)464,3102.0 %
  
Directors: 
Common StockNorman D. Dicks (6)57,353*%
Common StockC. James Jensen (7)236,2751.0 %
Common StockAndrew Kaplan (8)171,958*%
Common StockDouglas Kass—  — %
Common StockMichael Koehneman—  — %
Common StockSanford Rich (9)124,084*%
Common StockAll directors and executive officers as a group (12 persons) (10)2,522,87910.6 %
5% Shareholders:
Common StockLeon G. Cooperman (11)1,891,3508.2 %

———————

* Less than 1%.
























15


(1)

Beneficial Ownership Note.Note. Applicable percentages are based on 13,612,35422,240,993 shares of common stock outstanding as of August 25, 2017.July 13, 2020. Beneficial ownership is determined under the rules of the SEC and generally includes voting or investment power with respect to securities. A person is deemed to be the beneficial owner of securities that can be acquired by such person within 60 days whether upon the exercise of options, warrants or conversion of notes. Unless otherwise indicated in the footnotes to this table, Aspen Groupthe Company believes that each of the shareholders named in the table has sole voting and investment power with respect to the shares of common stockCommon Stock indicated as beneficially owned by them. This table does not include any unvested stock options except for those vesting within 60 days.

(2)

Mathews.

Mathews. Mr. Mathews is our Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. Includes: 86,305Includes (i) 2,917 shares held jointly with his spouse, (ii) 8,334 shares held by a trust of which Mr. Mathews is the trustee, and (iii) 511,420 shares underlying warrantsvested stock options, taking into account the exercise by Mr. Mathews of 66,667 stock options for cash on July 13, 2020 pending issuance of common stock upon such exercise. Does not include 100,000 shares underlying Restricted Stock Units that are subject to stock price based vesting or otherwise 50% will vest in 2024.
(3)
Cotroneo. Mr. Cotroneo is Chief Financial Officer and 204,167a director. Includes 13,889 shares underlying vested stock options.

Does not include 75,000 shares underlying Restricted Stock Units that are subject to stock price based vesting or otherwise 50% will vest in 2024 and 100,000 shares underlying Restricted Stock Units that vest in three equal segments (with fractional numbers initially rounded up) beginning in December 1, 2022.

(3)

(4)

St. Arnauld. Arnauld. Dr. St. Arnauld is our Chief Academic Officer. RepresentsIncludes 220,000 shares underlying vested stock options.

Does not include 75,000 shares underlying Restricted Stock Units that are subject to stock price based vesting or otherwise 50% will vest in 2024.

(4)

(5)

Wendolowski. Mr. Wendolowski is our Chief Operating Officer. RepresentsIncludes 446,439 shares underlying vested stock options.

Does not include 75,000 shares underlying Restricted Stock Units that are subject to stock price based vesting or otherwise 50% will vest in 2024.

(5)

(6)

D’Anton

Dicks. Dr. D’AntonCongressman Dicks is a director. Includes 199,451 shares of common stock held as custodian for the benefit of Dr. D’Anton’s children. Also includes 21,93045,222 shares underlying warrants and 22,744 vested stock options held directly by Dr. D’Anton.

options.

(6)

(7)

Dicks.Congressman Dicks is a director.Does not include options which begin to vest on November 29, 2017, subject to continued Board service.

(7)

Jenson.

Jensen. Mr. Jenson is a director. Includes 21,93067,778 shares underlying warrants and 43,578 vested stock options.

(8)

Kaplan.

Kaplan. Mr. Kaplan is a director. Includes 35,939104,167 shares underlying vested stock options.

(9)

MacLean.Mr. Maclean is a director.Represents (i) 8,166 shares held jointly with his spouse, (ii) 95,833 shares held by Starfish Partners LLC which Mr. MacLean indirectly controls, (iii) 250,000 shares held by Taurus Capital Partners LLC of which Mr. MacLean is the Managing Member, (iv) 18,938 shares held as custodian for the benefit of Mr. MacLean's children, (v) 132,111 shares held in the name of his IRA, (vi) 27,083 shares held in trust, (vii) 7,333 shares held in spouse's IRA, and (viii) 80,000 shares held in Star Asia Capital Management LLC DPB Plan U/A 01/01/2015. Does not include options which begin to vest on November 29, 2017, subject to continued Board service.

(10)

Rich. Mr. Rich is a director. Includes 36,633(i) 2,188 shares held in the name of Mr. Rich’s IRA and (ii) 96,001 shares underlying vested stock options.

(11)

(10)

Scheibelhoffer. Dr. Scheibelhoffer is a director. Includes 200,681 shares of common stock held as custodian for the benefit of Dr. Scheibelhoffer’s children. Also includes 21,930 shares underlying warrants and 22,744 vested stock options held directly by Dr. Scheibelhoffer.

(12)

Solomon. Mr. Solomon is a director. Includes 109,649 shares underlying warrants and 27,432 vested stock options.

(13)

Directors and Executive Officers as a group.group. This amount includes ownership by all directors and all current executive officers including those who are not Named Executive Officers under the SEC’s disclosure rules.

(14)

(11)

Cooperman. Includes 699,301 shares of common stock underlying a $5.0 million in principal amount convertible note held by the family foundation of which Mr. Cooperman is the trustee. Address is 810 7th Ave., 33rd floor, New York, NY 10019.  Based on a Schedule 13G/A filed with SEC on February 4, 2016 and subsequent issuance of warrants to Mr. Cooperman.

(15)

Melas-Kyriazi.Includes 5,976,211 shares held by Alvin Fund LLC in which Mr. Melas-Kyriazi is the manager. Address is 215 W 98th Street, New York, NY 10025.  Based on a Schedule 13G/A filed with SEC on April 27, 2017.

(16)

Kinderhook. The managing member of Kinderhook 2 GP, LLC is Tushar Shah. Address is 2 Executive Drive, Suite 585, Fort Lee, NJ 07024.   Based on a Schedule 13G/A filed with SEC on February 10, 2017 and subsequent purchase in the Company’s private placement offering.

(17)

Goudy Park. Based on a Schedule 13D filed with the SEC on April 24, 2017. The managing member of Goudy Park Management, LLC is James W. DeYoung, Jr. Address is 1 N. Franklin Street, Suite 350, Chicago, IL 60606.  Based on a Schedule 13D filed with SEC on April 24, 2017.

St. Andrew’s Country Club, 7118 Melrose Castle Lane, Boca Raton, FL 33496.







Item

ITEM 13. Certain Relationships and Related Transactions, and Director Independence


CERTAIN RELATIONSHIPS AND RELATED TRANSACTIONS, AND DIRECTOR INDEPENDENCE.

On August 14, 2012, Mr. Mathews loaned Aspen Group $300,000 in exchange for a convertible demand note bearing interest at 5% per annum. The note was convertible at $4.20 per share, and the due date was extended to May 5, 2018. On April 7, 2017, the Company repaid the full amount due under Mr. Mathews’ note.


In March 2012, Mr. Mathews loaned Aspen $300,000 in exchange for a convertible note bearing interest at 0.19% per annum. The note was convertible at $12.00 per share.As a condition of certain warrant holders exercising their warrants, Mr. Mathews converted the March 2012 note and the related accrued interest on the note after the conversion price was reduced from $12.00 to $2.28 per share.


In June 2013, Mr. Mathews loaned Aspen Group $1 million and was issued a $1 million 10% Promissory Note due December 31, 2013 (which had been extended to May 5, 2018). On April 7, 2017, the Company repaid the full amount due under Mr. Mathews’ note.


Effective May 29, 2014, Aspen Group entered into a consulting agreement with AEK Consulting LLC, or AEK, a company controlled by Mr. Andrew Kaplan, a director, pursuant to which AEK acts as a strategic advisor providing educational, business and financial advice services to Aspen Group. In exchange for its services, AEK was to be paid $120,000, provided that Aspen Group achieves certain business objectives. In addition, AEK was issued 66,667 restricted stock units, vesting quarterly overJuly 18, months subject to Aspen Group’s achievement of certain business objectives and other conditions. None of the business objectives or conditions were met. In June 2015, the Company and AEK agreed to terminate the consulting agreement in consideration for the issuance of 25,000 restricted stock units. The 66,667 restricted stock units were cancelled.


In September 2014, Leon G. Cooperman, a 5% shareholder of the Company, invested $1,240,000 in a private placement on terms identical to others investors in the offering. Mr. Cooperman purchased 666,667 shares of common stock and 333,333 warrants. The warrants were exercisable at $2.28 per share. In April 2015, the Company closed on an offering with its outstanding warrant holders whereby it agreed to reduce the exercise price of the outstanding warrants to $1.86 if the warrant holder exercised early. Mr. Cooperman agreed and exercised 333,333 warrants.


On April 22, 2016, the Company issued 404,623 shares of common stock to two of its warrant holders, including George Melas-Kyriazi, a 5% shareholder, in exchange for their early exercise of warrants at a reduced exercise price of $1.86 (originally $2.28) per share. George Melas-Kyriazi exercised all of his warrants for 202,957 shares of common stock.


On August 31, 2016,2018, the Company entered into a $3Stock Purchase Agreement with Educaciόn Significativa for the repurchase of 1,000,000 shares of the Company’s Common Stock at $7.40 per share. Ms. Oksana Malysheva, a then director of the Company, is the sole member and manager of Linden Education, which is the sole voting member of Educaciόn Significativa. The Company simultaneously sold 1,000,000 shares of Common Stock to a large asset manager at the same price or $7.40 per share.


On November 5, 2018, the Company entered into an agreement (the “Credit Facility Agreement”) providing for a $5 million revolving line of credit agreement (“LOC”facility (the “Facility”) with the Leon and Toby Cooperman Family Foundation (the “Lender”), of which Mr. Cooperman. Under the LOC, Mr.Leon Cooperman, agreed to lenda principal shareholder of the Company, up to a maximum of $3 million on a revolving basis for up to three years. The Company paid Mr. Cooperman a facility fee of $60,000 and issued Mr. Coopermanis the trustee. Borrowings under the Credit Facility Agreement are evidenced by a revolving promissory note. In addition,note (the “Note”) and bear interest at 12% per annum. The Facility matures on November 4, 2021. Pursuant to the terms of the Credit Facility Agreement, the Company willagreed to pay to Mr. Cooperman interest monthly on the principal amount ofLender a $100,000 one-time upfront facility fee. The Company also agreed to pay to the note outstanding at a rate of 12% per annum, andLender a commitment fee, monthlypayable quarterly at the rate of 2% per annum on the undrawn portion of the note at a rateFacility. As of 2% per annum. Upon issuance,the date of this Amendment, the Company has not borrowed $750,000any sum under the LOC. TheFacility. Pursuant to the Credit Facility Agreement, on November 5, 2018 the Company also issued to Mr. Cooperman 62,500 five-yearthe Lender warrants to purchase 92,049 shares of the Company’s Common Stock exercisable for five years from the date of issuance at $2.40the exercise price of $5.85 per share.share (the “Warrants”). On April 7, 2017,March 6, 2019, in connection with entering into loan agreements with the Lender and another shareholder of the Company, repaid $2,157,534 to Mr. Cooperman which was the full amount owed by the Company underamended and restated the LOC.


Credit Facility Agreement and the related revolving promissory note to grant the Lender a first priority lien in certain deposit accounts of the Company, all current and future accounts receivable of Aspen University Inc. and United States University, Inc., subsidiaries of the Company (the “Subsidiaries”), certain of the deposit accounts of the Subsidiaries and all of the outstanding capital stock of the Subsidiaries (the “Collateral”) on a pari passu basis with the other lender.


On April 7, 2017, Kinderhook 2 GP, LLCMarch 6, 2019, the Company entered into a loan agreement with the Lender. Under the Loan Agreement we borrowed $5 million (the “Loan”), evidenced by a 12% term Promissory Note and Alvin Fund LLC (controlledSecurity Agreement due September 6, 2020. The loan was
16


secured by Mr. George Melas-Kyriazi), each 5% shareholders, invested approximately $1.4 million and $825,000 respectively,a first priority lien in the Company’s private placement offering. Additionally, Goudy Park Management, LLC invested approximately $2Collateral. Concurrently with entering into the Loan Agreement, the Company entered into, and borrowed another $5 million inunder, a loan agreement with another shareholder of the April 2017 offeringCompany, which resulted in it becomingis not a 5% shareholder. The investments wererelated party, on the same terms as other investorsare contained in the offering.






Loan Agreement. The Company issued 100,000 Warrants to the Lender and the other lender exercisable at $6 per share.


On January 22, 2020, the Company refinanced the Loan and the other $5 million by issuing each lender a $5 million 7% Convertible Note. The Convertible Notes are convertible at $7.15 per share and due on January 22, 2023. The Convertible Notes automatically convert into common stock if the average closing price of our common stock is at least $10.725 over a 20 consecutive trading day period.

On June 5, 2020, the Lender exercised all of its Warrants and received 192,049 shares of common stock in exchange for a 5% discount in the exercise prices. In addition, the Lender agreed to not sell its common stock for at least six months.


Item

ITEM 14. Principal Accounting Fees and Services


PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING FEES AND SERVICES.

All of the services provided and fees charged by Salberg & Company, P.A., (“Salberg”) our principal accountant, were approved by our Audit Committee. The following table shows the fees paid to Salberg for the fiscal years ended April 30, 20172020 and 2016.


 

 

Year Ended

April 30,

2017

($)

 

 

Year Ended

April 30,

2016

($)

 

Audit Fees (1)

  

  

97,000

  

  

  

83,000

 

Audit Related Fees (2)

 

 

15,000

 

 

 

5,000

 

Tax Fees

 

 

0

 

 

 

0

 

All Other Fees

 

 

0

 

 

 

0

 

Total

 

 

112,000

 

 

 

88,000

 

2019.


Year Ended April 30,
20202019
Audit Fees (1)$173,000  $227,000  
Audit Related Fees (2)10,500  4,000  
Tax Fees—  —  
All Other Fees—  —  
     Total$183,500  $231,000  
———————


(1)

Audit fees – these fees relate to services rendered for the audits of our annual consolidated financial statements, for the review of our quarterly financial statements, and for services that are normally provided by the auditor in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements including filings with the Department of Education.

(2)

Audit related fees – these fees relate toare audit related consulting.

consulting relating to a Registration Statement.



Audit Committee’s Pre-Approval Policy


The Audit Committee pre-approves all audit and permissible non-audit services on a case-by-case basis. In its review of non-audit services, the Audit Committee considers whether the engagement could compromise the independence of our independent registered public accounting firm, and whether the reasons of efficiency or convenience is in our best interest to engage our independent registered public accounting firm to perform the services. All of the services provided and fees charged by Salberg were approved by our Audit Committee.





17




PART IV

ITEM 15.

EXHIBITS, FINANCIAL STATEMENT SCHEDULES.

(a)

Documents filed as part of the report.


(a)Documents filed as part of the report.
(1)

Financial Statements. See Index to Consolidated Financial Statements, which appears on page F-1 hereof. The financial statements listed in the accompanying Index to Consolidated Financial Statements are filed herewith in response to this Item.


(2)

Financial Statements Schedules. All schedules are omitted because they are not applicable or because the required information is contained in the consolidated financial statements or notes included in this report.


(3)

Exhibits. The exhibits listed inSee the accompanying Exhibit Index are filed or incorporated by reference as part of this report.







Index.

18


SIGNATURES


Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.



EXHIBIT INDEX
Incorporated by Reference
Filed or
Furnished
Herewith
Exhibit #Exhibit DescriptionFormDateNumber
Certificate of Incorporation, as amended10-K7/9/20193.1
Bylaws, as amended10-Q3/15/20183.2
Description of securities registered under Section 12 of the Exchange Act of 193410-K7/9/20194.1
2012 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended*10-Q3/15/201810.11
Amendment No. 10 to the 2012 Equity Incentive Plan8-K3/22/201810.1
Aspen Group, Inc. 2018 Equity Incentive Plan*DEF 14A10/31/2018Annex A
Amendment No. 1 to the Aspen Group, Inc. 2018 Equity Incentive Plan*DEF 14A11/5/2019Annex A
Employment Agreement dated November 2, 2016 - Michael Mathews*10-Q3/9/201710.1
Employment Agreement dated November 24, 2014 - Gerard Wendolowski*10-K7/28/201510.19
Employment Agreement dated June 11, 2017 – St. Arnauld*10-K7/25/201710.5
Employment Agreement dated November 1, 2019 – Anne McNamara*Filed^
Employment Agreement between the Company and Frank J. Cotroneo dated December 2, 2019*8-K12/5/201910.1
Employment Agreement between the Company and Robert Alessi dated December 1, 2019*8-K12/5/201910.2
Form of Restricted Stock Unit AgreementFiled^
Form of Restricted Stock Unit Agreement – price based vestingFiled^
Form of Stock Option AgreementFiled^
Securities Purchase Agreement, dated as of July 19, 2018, by and between Aspen Group, Inc. and ESL8-K7/19/201810.1
Loan Agreement, dated November 5, 20188-K11/5/201810.1
Revolving Promissory Note, dated November 5, 20188-K11/5/201810.2
Warrant to purchase 92,049 shares of common stock, dated November 5, 20188-K11/5/20184.1
Form of Term Promissory Note and Security Agreement dated March 6, 201910-Q3/11/201910.1
Form of Loan Agreement, dated March 6, 201910-Q3/11/201910.2
Form of Intercreditor Agreement, dated March 6, 201910-Q3/11/201910.3
Form of Warrant for the Purchase of 100,000 shares of common stock, dated March 6, 201910-Q3/11/201910.4
Amended and Restated Revolving Promissory Note and Security Agreement, dated March 6, 201910-Q3/11/201910.5
Form of Amended and Restated Convertible Promissory Note and Security Agreement dated January 22, 20208-K1/23/202010.1
Form of Amended and Restated Revolving Promissory Note and Security Agreement dated January 22, 20208-K1/23/202010.2
Form of Investors/Registration Rights Agreement dated January 22, 20208-K1/23/202010.3
Form of Loan Agreement dated January 15, 202010-Q3/10/202010.7
19


Aspen Group, Inc.

Subsidiaries

Filed^

Date: August 25, 2017

By:

/s/ Michael Mathews

Michael Mathews

Chief Executive Officer

(Principal Executive Officer)


Date: August 25, 2017

By:

/s/ Janet Gill

Janet Gill

Chief Financial Officer

(Principal Financial Officer)











EXHIBIT INDEX

Incorporated by Reference

Filed or Furnished

Exhibit #

Exhibit Description

Form

Date

Number

Herewith

3.1

Certificate of Incorporation, as amended

10-Q

3/9/17

3.1

3.2

Bylaws

8-K

3/19/12

3.2

3.2(a)

Amendment No. 1 to Bylaws

8-K

3/12/14

3.1

10.1

Promissory Note dated March 8, 2017 – Linden Finance

Filed^

10.2

Form of Stock Purchase Agreement dated April 7, 2017

8-K

4/10/17

10.1

10.3

Employment Agreement dated November 1, 2016 – Mathews*

10-Q

3/9/17

10.1

10.4

Employment Agreement dated November 24, 2014 – Gerard Wendolowski*

10-K

7/28/15

10.19

10.5

Employment Agreement dated June 11, 2017 – St. Arnauld*

Filed^

10.6

2012 Equity Incentive Plan, as amended*

10-K

7/27/16

10.5

10.7

Form of Non-Qualified Stock Option Agreement

8-K

12/17/15

10.1

10.8

Form of Directors Indemnification Agreement

8-K/A

5/7/12

10.21

10.9

Loan Agreement dated August 31, 2016 – Cooperman

8-K

9/7/16

2.1

10.10

Revolving Promissory Note dated August 31, 2016 – Cooperman

8-K

9/7/16

2.2

10.11

Warrant dated August 31, 2016 – Cooperman

8-K

9/7/16

3.1

10.12

Note Conversion Agreement dated April 16, 2016 – Mathews

10-K

7/27/16

10.4

10.13

Letter Agreement with Warrant Holders for Reduced Exercise Price and Early Exercise 2016

10-K

7/27/16

10.19

10.14

Letter Agreement with Warrant Holders for Reduced Exercise Price and Early Exercise 2015

10-K

7/28/15

10.20

10.15

Termination of AEK Consulting Agreement

10-K

7/28/15

10.12

10.16

Consulting Agreement – AEK Consulting

10-K

7/29/14

10.24

10.17

Asset Purchase Agreement dated May 13, 2017 – Linden Education Partners LLC***

8-K

5/18/17

10.1

21.1

Subsidiaries

Filed^

23.1

Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Filed^

Certification of Principal Executive Officer (302)

Filed

Certification of Principal Financial Officer (302)

Filed

Certification of Principal Executive and Principal Financial Officer (906)

Furnished**^

101.INS

Inline XBRL Instance Document

(the instance document
does not appear in the Interactive Data File because
its XBRL tags are embedded within the Inline XBRL
document)

Filed^

101.SCH

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Schema Document

Filed^

101.CAL

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Calculation Linkbase Document

Filed^

101.DEF

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Definition Linkbase Document

Filed^

101.LAB

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Label Linkbase Document

Filed^

101.PRE

Inline XBRL Taxonomy Extension Presentation Linkbase Document

Filed^
104

Filed^

Cover Page Interactive Data File (formatted as Inline XBRL and contained in Exhibit 101)

——————

*

Represents Management contract or compensatory plan of management.

or arrangement.

**

This exhibit is being furnished rather than filed and shall not be deemed incorporated by reference into any filing, in accordance with Item 601 of Regulation S-K.







***

Certain schedules, appendices and exhibits to this agreement have been omitted in accordance with Item 601(b)(2) of Regulation S-K. A copy of any omitted schedule and/or exhibit will be furnished supplementally to the Securities and Exchange Commission staff upon request.

^

Previously filed (or, with respect to Exhibit 32.1, furnished) with our Annual Report on2020 Form 10-K, for the fiscal year ended April 30, 2017, originally filed with the SEC on July 25, 2017,7, 2020, which is being amended hereby.





Copies of this report (including the financial statements) and any of the exhibits referred to above will be furnished at no cost to our shareholders who make a written request to Aspen Group, Inc., at the address on the cover page of this report, Attention: Corporate Secretary.
20


SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.
Aspen Group, Inc.
Date: July 14, 2020By:/s/ Michael Mathews
Michael Mathews
Chief Executive Officer
(Principal Executive Officer)

21