Davenport offers free course to help unemployed skill-up and land their next job

(Grand Rapids, Mich. – April 23, 2020)  Davenport University announced today it will offer a free career-focused class to individuals who have lost their jobs as a result of the coronavirus. The online course, Communications 120 – Career Building, will give each participant an opportunity to hone their presentation skills, build their resumes, enhance their LinkedIn profiles and earn three college credits.

“Davenport is in a unique position to help those laid-off or furloughed by the pandemic get back on their feet,” said Dr. Richard J. Pappas, president of Davenport University. “Helping our fellow Michiganders aligns with our mission as a university to help individuals earn degrees that will lead to successful careers.”

The interdisciplinary course will be offered online and will utilize free digital education resources and presentations from multiple university departments to help students brush up on their skills to quickly reenter the workforce.

“Whether it’s been one year or 10 years since your last interview, all of us can benefit from building presentation and interview skills and resume writing advice,” said Jeff Wiggerman, director of online instructional design for Davenport University.

Participants will also get the opportunity to work with Davenport’s Career Services department, which will offer personalized coaching on how to navigate interviews and much more. All participants will receive a grade at the end of the seven-week course. Davenport plans to offer four sessions of the course, two starting May 6 and another two beginning July 1.

“We’ve taken one of our nationally recognized communications courses and molded it to fit the needs of Michigan’s workforce,” said Wiggerman. “Through this program, participants can get one step ahead of others who will be competing for jobs as Michigan’s economy gets back on track.”

Those interested in participating in the course are encouraged to call Davenport University at 800.686.1600 or visit davenport.edu/careerbuilder. Those eligible for the program must have been working full-time and have been laid-off or furloughed after March 1, 2020.