Davenport University is expanding its approach to career services. The unit is changing its name and focus to create more opportunities for students to explore their goals, develop professional skills and connect with employers earlier in their college experience.

The university’s Career Services department is now the Office of Career and Personal Development. The new name and direction reflect a broader strategy focused on supporting students from the beginning of their Davenport education to graduation and throughout their careers.

It builds on Davenport’s longstanding commitment to lifetime career support by placing greater emphasis on reaching students earlier and making career and personal development an ongoing benefit of the student experience.

“The name change reflects a shift from transactional support to holistic student care,” said Cassandra Volkers, executive director of the Office of Career and Personal Development. “Beyond traditional services like resume writing and interview prep, our team is dedicated to meeting students exactly where they are, focusing on their unique interests, strengths and personal work styles.”

Davenport has reimagined its career support experience to better connect students and employers with resources, opportunities and support. The work includes a refreshed department brand, redesigned communications and resources, new digital experiences, a new department guide and materials, expanded student promotions and new employer sponsorship opportunities.

Rather than a flurry of activity near graduation, the Office of Career and Personal Development wants to engage students throughout their time at Davenport. Students can explore career options, connect their education to their goals, build professional skills and confidence, prepare for internships and interviews and network with employers to pursue meaningful job opportunities. 

Davenport student Lindsey Knibbe took advantage of the support offered from the office when she realized she wasn’t sure if the occupational therapy path she was on was right for her.

“I didn’t know exactly what OT was about, or if I would enjoy it,” Knibbe said. “The people in the career office at Davenport  provided me with helpful resources. They connected me with OTs who talked to me, and I was convinced I would enjoy my program and feature career. They also explained options and the process if I had decided to switch majors.”

Knibbe will graduate in 2029, and said she is looking forward to working as an OT and is grateful for the support provided by the Office of Career and Personal Development. This is an example of the kinds of interactions that Volkers wants with more students. 

“By integrating personal growth with professional preparation, we empower students to build meaningful careers that align with who they are, fostering lifelong success both on and off campus,” Volkers said.

The new approach is designed to make career development a more visible benefit of the Davenport experience. Faculty and staff are being encouraged to connect students to the office and its resources throughout their education.

Davenport’s commitment to providing students and alumni with lifetime career services remains unchanged. What is expanding is the support students receive along the way, helping them not only find their next opportunity but build and navigate a career over a lifetime.