On January 23, Ciera Bank President & CEO, Mr. Charlie Powell, presented Southwestern Adventist University with a $5,000 check to support students enrolled in the University’s Senior Living Management Certificate Program. Mr. Justin Cowart, Executive Vice President of Ciera Bank, Mr. Wayne Powell, Founder and CEO at Civitas Senior Living, and Mr. Jay Dempsey, Co-Managing Partner at Civitas Senior Living, were also in attendance. 

During the check presentation, Dr. Ken Shaw, President of Southwestern Adventist University, and Dr. Aaron Moses, Chair of the Business Department, expressed their appreciation to the Bank for their support of the University. 

Mr. Charlie Powell expressed that “anytime anyone is pursuing education, it benefits not only the person receiving training, but also benefits the employer and gives us an end product that impacts the community.” He went on to say how impressed he was of the educational experience that Southwestern Adventist University provides not only through the Senior Living Management Program but also through its nursing program. Powell looks forward to a continued partnership with the University.

The Senior Living Management Certificate is an online program for individuals seeking a career in the senior living industry. Topics include finances, legal issues, regulations, and operations, all designed to help leaders manage a senior living facility. The certificate program became a reality after the need was demonstrated by the Civitas Senior Living community.  Senior Living Program coordinator, Brianne Michalski stated that, “As the United States population ages and the Baby Boomer generation retires, the demand for senior housing and assisted living will inevitably increase. We are thankful for Ciera Bank’s support toward Southwestern Adventist University’s Senior Living Management Certificate Program.”

Southwestern Adventist University’s Senior Living Management Certificate Program began in 2018 and has attracted students locally and across the country. “The potential of this new online certificate program is exciting,” shares Tami Condon, Vice President for University Advancement. “We appreciate Ciera Bank’s generosity to fund a prospective student in completing this specialized certification.”