As seen in Crain’s Grand Rapids Business

With rising graduation rates and a job guarantee, Davenport delivers real outcomes

 

Technology and the global economy are evolving so rapidly, earning a college degree has never been more vital. That applies to earning potential and general life satisfaction. At Davenport University, we equip graduates with the education and “power skills” necessary not only to succeed in today’s competitive job market but also to adapt and innovate in an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence (AI). Higher education is crucial for ensuring Michigan’s workforce remains relevant, productive and thrives in this dynamic landscape.

The numbers paint a clear picture of the income opportunities that come to those with a college degree. According to the Pew Research Center, people with a bachelor’s degree earn approximately $1.2 million more over their lifetime when compared to those with only a high school diploma.

The benefits are more than financial. The College Board Report, “Education Pays 2023: The Benefits of Higher Education for Individuals and Society,” shows that degree holders report higher levels of job satisfaction and overall life fulfillment. College graduates are more likely to vote, volunteer and contribute to civic life.

At Davenport, we see these outcomes with our alumni who are leading in their fields and positively contributing in their communities. We see the potential in our students and in the 1,300 graduates who were honored at our spring commencement ceremony.

Davenport alumni and those new graduates are helping employers across the state manage a growing talent gap. The university is a key player in producing qualified workers for high-demand and complex roles, particularly in technology, business, health care and education. Davenport is career focused and a full partner in Michigan’s goal to have 60% of adults in the state holding a postsecondary degree or credential by 2030. Our institute for Professional Excellence (IPEx) has robust corporate partnerships across the state, providing scholarships to employees.

Our dedication to student success has resulted in a 200% increase in graduation rates since 2008, and our focus on excellence culminated in the university earning the prestigious Michigan Performance Excellence Award, which recognizes high performance based on the Baldridge Criteria for Performance Excellence.

Davenport’s commitment to forward-thinking, innovative programs is evident in these initiatives:

Davenport is developing AI-ready professionals and will include AI in every program. The faculty’s approach to AI integration will ensure students understand how to use these tools effectively and responsibly. For employers, this means our graduates will use AI strategically, enhancing productivity.

Our employment guarantee ensures that eligible students in a growing number of programs- like accounting and cyber defense- will secure employment within six months of graduation or receive up to 48 additional credit hours free.

Our College of Urban Education is tackling Michigan’s teacher shortage by training educators with a focus on responsive teaching and community involvement. This program prepares graduates to meet the diverse needs of students across our state.

Our Casa Latina initiative offers bilingual degree programs in English and Spanish, supporting students with fully online, culturally relevant courses and services. This innovative model allows learners to pursue degrees in business, health care and technology while building bilingual career readiness.

Our First-Generation Initiative supports student who are the first in their families to earn a college degree. Through successful peer mentoring and personalized advising, Davenport empowers these trailblazers to succeed academically and professionally.

Education unlocks opportunity and the chance to make a lasting impact. At Davenport University, we are deeply committed to being part of the solution to Michigan’s education and workforce challenges. Partner with us. Together, let’s be bold and innovative. The future demands nothing less.

 

About the Author

Richard J. Pappas, Ed.D., is one of the longest serving university presidents in Michigan. He has led Davenport University, which is the largest private university in the state, since August 2009.

During his tenure, the university implemented quality measures, elevating its academic programming, student support and financial strength. The graduation rate has increased 200% since he arrived. Student retention and philanthropic support are at all-time highs. This focus on outcomes earned Davenport the Michigan Performance Excellence Award, which recognizes high performance based on the Baldridge Criteria for Performance Excellence.