Former players set to attend Kaplan University as part of educational partnership
DAVENPORT, Iowa & CHICAGO, Illinois - (August 11, 2015) -The National Basketball Retired Players Association (NBRPA), the only Association comprised of NBA, ABA, Harlem Globetrotters and WNBA alumni, today announced the first five recipients of its scholarship program with Kaplan University, an NBRPA preferred higher education partner. The announcement was made at the NBRPA's annual Legends Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada.
The starting five receiving scholarships to attend Kaplan University are retired NBA players Adonal Foyle, Joe Smith, James Donaldson, Kevin A. Loder and Eldridge Recasner.
"Our partnership with Kaplan University is a great fit for former players looking to create career opportunities in life after basketball through education," said NBRPA Chairman of the Board Thurl Bailey, who played 12 years in the NBA. "When one door closes, others need to be opened and education is very often the key."
"Like most Kaplan University students, retired athletes are juggling a lot of competing responsibilities. They're older, raising families and also want to make a lasting difference not just in their own lives, but in the larger community," said Craig Collins, Senior Vice President of Kaplan University Corporate Development. "So a university like Kaplan, which today is helping some 41,000 adult learners pursue their education and career goals, fits into their playbook because of its convenience."
"Our relationship with the NBRPA helps underscore the importance of life-long learning and education. Regardless of one's situation, education plays an important role in helping individuals find fulfillment in careers and life," said Dr. Wade Dyke, President of Kaplan University.
Founded in 1937, Kaplan University serves adult learners through a wide array of offerings and has more than 180 program offerings. In 2014 and 2015, Kaplan University ranked among the best Online Bachelor Degree Programs by U.S. News & World Report.
