Davenport’s Casa Latina partners with Latino advocacy group to help students

Davenport University and Latin Americans United for Progress, Inc. (LAUP) have entered into an all-encompassing partnership to support education for Latinos at all stages of life.

LAUP is located in Holland and was formed in 1964 with the mission to empower Latinos to participate in creating a better community for all through advocacy, celebration and education. Davenport's newly created Casa Latina online degrees program complements that mission.

The partnership, which includes scholarships and other benefits, was announced at LAUP's 8th Annual Gala held at the Holland Civic Center on October 11. It covers LAUP's youth programs called ¡Adelante!and¡Más Adelante!and Educate, Elevate!, the LAUP workforce development program.

"Everyone at Davenport University is excited about partnering with LAUP," said Casa Latina Executive Director Carlos Sanchez. "Casa Latina supports LAUP's mission by offering dual language undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as a bilingual student support system for high school graduates and adult learners alike. We look forward to working together for the benefit of the West Michigan community."

Graduates of the LAUP programs who meet Davenport's requirements will receive up to $9,200 toward tuition for Casa Latina undergraduate programs and up to $7,000 toward tuition for general Davenport undergraduate programs. There is a special early admission category for graduates of the ¡Adelante! Program at the end of 8th grade.

"This partnership, driven by LAUP's transformative efforts, is a powerful catalyst for change," said Maria Morales, director of Workforce Development & Strategic Impact. "It fosters equitable access and opportunities for youth and adults, empowers skilled immigrants to upskill and integrate into the workforce, and unlocks career pathways-harnessing the untapped potential within our community."

Click here for a full description of the Davenport University/LAUP partnership: English, Spanish.