IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 17, 2007
CONTACT: Gordon Ovenshine:
724.738.4854

gordon.ovenshine@sru.edu

SRU’s Lifelong Learning area launches new enrichment initiative 

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – Slippery Rock University’s Division of Lifelong Learning is launching a broad-sweeping Professional Development and Personal Enrichment Program through its Office of Workforce and Community Education. The program includes 30 new seminars, certification programs and classes in business management, leadership, computers, languages, grant writing and more.

            “The goal is to enhance the credentials of working professionals and others through a variety of continuing education offerings,” said Merilee Madera, director of workforce and community education. “The classes are for career climbers, those with kids going off to college, those looking to re-enter the workforce and those seeking self-improvement.”

            Programs begin Sept. 11 and will be offered at the division’s Center for Lifelong and Community Learning on Elm Street in Slippery Rock. The non-credit programs vary from half-day to 10-week sessions and are for adults. Teachers are experts in their fields, Madera said.

            Programs include “Creating Powerful Presentations using Microsoft PowerPoint,” “Conversational Spanish 1,”  “Basic Proposal Writing” “SHRM Essentials in Human Resource Management Certification” and “Is Your Organization Ready to Apply for Grant Money?” 

            Other offerings include “QuickBooks Made Easy,” “Writing an Effective Business Plan,” “Guerilla Marketing,” as well as educational seminars in long-term care administration and eight-week courses in Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel.

            “We’re also offering seminars for teachers to meet their Act 48 requirements,” Madera said. “These new programs are also a great way to do something fun ‘just for yourself’ and reconnect with the excitement of learning.”

            The division promotes a “cradle-to-the-grave” concept in education by offering workforce and skills-set training.

            “Professional development is a key component for the success of the region and its citizens,” Madera said. “No one is excluded from the offerings.”

            For a complete list of offerings or to register, call the center at 724.738.1601 or visit  www.sru.edu/pages/13728.asp. The division also offers classes at the Regional Learning Alliance in Cranberry and in Sharon.

            Slippery Rock University is Pennsylvania’s premier public residential university. Slippery Rock University provides students with a comprehensive learning experience that intentionally combines academic instruction with enhanced educational and learning opportunities that make a positive difference in their lives.