From left to right: Susan Crkovski, executive campus director, Warren Campus; Dan Rundhaug, IPEx executive director; David Parker, Ciena Healthcare CEO; Melissa Sorensen, chief nursing officer for Ciena Healthcare; and Amy LaFleur, SVP of operations at Ciena Healthcare

Leaders from Davenport University and Ciena Healthcare formalized their commitment to continuing education and professional development with a signing ceremony held February 5, 2026, at Ciena’s offices in Southfield. The agreement provides scholarship opportunities for employees of the nursing and rehabilitation company and their family members.

Ciena offers a full spectrum of services, from short-term rehabilitation needs to long-term nursing care. It employs 11,000 people at locations throughout the Midwest and Southeast.  

The Corporate Partner Scholarship Program at Davenport offers up to $8,000 per year in scholarships to Ciena employees and up to $6,500 per year to their spouses and children to the age of 29. There is also a 20% discount on professional development certificates and certifications through the Institute of Professional Excellence (IPEx).  

Davenport University President, Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D., said the goal of the corporate partnership program is to create opportunities for companies to invest in their employees and their families.

“We believe that lifelong learning is essential to building a skilled, adaptable workforce,” said Pappas. “We are pleased to partner with Ciena Healthcare to support the education and professional development of their employees. By extending educational benefits to employees’ family members, this partnership helps remove barriers to higher education and supports long-term workforce and community stability.”

The executive director of Davenport’s IPEx, Daniel Rundhaug, Ph.D., and the executive campus director of Davenport’s Warren Campus, Susan Crkovski, attended the signing ceremony, along with representatives from Ciena.

David Parker, CEO of Ciena Healthcare, echoed the commitment, adding, “At Ciena, we are all about learning! We are committed to providing our staff and their families with opportunities to continue growing, developing new skills, and expanding their knowledge. This partnership reflects an investment in people and our mission to provide the best possible care while promoting the happiness of both our guests and staff members.”

Davenport University has flexible programs for adult learners to earn degrees or certificates in more than 100 areas. Many courses are offered online, and Davenport offers both 7-week and 15-week semesters. 

Learn more about the Corporate Education Scholarship at Davenport for Ciena employees by visiting this website.