UOPX donates $10,000 to Alexandria’s Jefferson-Houston School

University of Phoenix continued its commitment to supporting education in Northern Virginia by donating $10,000 along with school supplies to Jefferson-Houston School in Alexandria. A special check presentation ceremony was held at the Jefferson-Houston School with leaders from University of Phoenix and school administration officials.

"At University of Phoenix, we fundamentally believe that nothing should stand in the way of a child’s right to receive a quality education and are proud to do our part to support this mission locally here in Alexandria," says Northern Virginia Campus Director Erik Greenberg.

This latest donation represents a continued partnership between University of Phoenix Northern Virginia Campus and the Jefferson-Houston School.

Pictured above: Leaders from UOPX present check to administration officials at the Jefferson-Houston School.

University awards more than 50 full-tuition scholarships to new students across the country

In September, University of Phoenix welcomed more than 50 new scholarship students. Across the country the University has awarded full-tuition scholarships to prospective students who have demonstrated a commitment and a desire to learn. From veterans to volunteers, deserving individuals have been given the opportunity to earn an undergraduate or master’s degree. "By reaching out to our target communities, we determine their needs," shares Tammie Yong, director of scholarships. "Scholarships are then awarded through partnerships with nonprofits and other organizations to alleviate financial obstacles to education."

Among the University’s partner organizations is The Wounded Warrior Project. It was founded five years ago to honor and empower the wounded warriors returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. The University awarded seven scholarships to severely injured veterans, their dedicated spouses or caretakers in August. "We are so grateful to University of Phoenix for recognizing that part of empowering this generation of wounded veterans is providing them educational opportunities," says Steve Nardizzi, executive director of the Wounded Warrior Project. "This incredible opportunity will no doubt change lives."

To learn more about the University of Phoenix’s scholarship opportunities visit the Center for Scholarship Excellence (CSE) at: phoenix.edu/tuition_and_financial_options/scholarships.html.

UOPX School of Business alumni launch small business network

Graduates of the University’s School of Business recently founded The Small Business Network (SBN), an online networking site designed to make advertising more affordable to small businesses, startups, churches and nonprofit organizations. The ultimate goal behind SBN is to help these organizations increase sales along with their impact on their communities. Based on a philosophy to prioritize the welfare of consumers above profits, the entrepreneurs behind SBN have chosen to commit 30 percent of the site’s revenue to the community to encourage economic growth. Explore SBN online at smallbusinessnet.org.

New study uncovers skills and education necessary for success in 21st century workforce

While unemployment hovers at 9 percent with 14 million Americans out of work, the U.S. Department of Labor reported there are currently 3 million available jobs. Life in the 21st Century Workforce: A National Perspective, a study conducted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and University of Phoenix, explores this disconnect, citing 53 percent of employers say their companies face a significant challenge in recruiting non-managerial employees with the skills, training and education their company needs.

The study paints a picture of the employment landscape and key dynamics both workers and employers need to consider as they seek to promote excellence in the workplace, underscoring the importance of education—including continuing education and advanced degrees—that emphasizes interpersonal skills, collaboration, critical thinking and problem-solving. The study found that 46 percent of the workforce say their company has a tuition assistance program.

The study also cites that in today’s workplace, the labor force considers past work experience (50 percent) to be the most important factor when companies are making hiring decisions, outdistancing people management and communication skills (27 percent). However, when it comes to being promoted, employers are far more likely to consider people management and communication skills (46 percent) as more important than past work experience (38 percent).

These and other results summarized in Life in the 21st Century Workforce: A National Perspective can help inform employers, employees and jobseekers looking to stand out in the increasingly competitive job market.