GR Chamber & Davenport partner to bring tuition discount to members and dependents

One of the best economic development tools is a well-trained, educated workforce. 

Davenport University and the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce are teaming up to help educate West Michigan’s workforce through a new program offering a 25% discount on tuition to employees of Chamber member companies and their dependents.

“This benefit of Chamber membership is the first of its kind in this area,” says Rick Baker, President & CEO of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce.  “It’s a workforce development opportunity for our members, and because it extends to dependents, helps educate our future talent as well.”

It also helps companies that may not have a tuition reimbursement policy to offer a new benefit to their employees.

Scheduled to go into effect for the fall 2011 semester, this discount covers classes within most of Davenport’s degree programs, which focus on the economic growth areas of business, technology and health.

“Offering this special benefit to all Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce businesses is a significant way Davenport University can contribute to the health and vitality of the West Michigan economy,” said Dr. Richard J. Pappas, Davenport University President.  “Davenport faculty members are uniquely able to draw upon current, real-world experience to prepare individuals to exceed employers’ expectations.”

To learn more about this program or inquire about receiving your discounted tuition, visit www.grandrapids.org/davenport.

About the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce

With more than 120 years of experience creating opportunities for business success, the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce is the premier business membership organization in West Michigan. Though the area’s largest employers are among its 2,700 member businesses, more than 80% of members are small companies with 50 or fewer employees. By helping members connect, grow and succeed, the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce is a community partner that provides value for members, enhances the business climate in the area, and advocates for public policy that supports economic growth and vitality.

About Davenport University
Davenport University’s relentless focus on three future economic drivers – business, technology and health – provides its students with a unique competitive advantage, helping them get where the world is going. Founded in 1866, Davenport is a private, non-profit university with campuses across Michigan and online courses serving an enrollment of more than 13,000 students. With tuition among the lowest of all private universities in the state, Davenport provides high academic quality, small class sizes, conveniently located campuses, faculty with real-world experience and more than 40 dynamic undergraduate and graduate programs addressing in-demand careers.  More information is available at www.davenport.edu.