Birthene Banks

Birthene Banks (bbanks@davenport.edu [1])
Records Specialist & VA Certifying Official
Grand Rapids - Serves all campuses
(616) 742-1703

Processes/updates Post-9/11 GI Bill certifications (Chapter 33) Processes/updates Montgomery GI Bill certifications (Chapter 30 & 1606) Processes/updates Reserve Education Assistance Program certifications (Chapter 1607) Processes/updates Dependents Education Assistance certifications (Chapter 35) Works closely with admissions representatives and advisors on behalf of students Assists students with questions about certification process

I began working for the Registrar’s Office at Davenport University in 2005 as a Records Specialist. After being with the University for one year, the University Registrar asked me to take a lead role as a VA Certifying Official and I enthusiastically agreed. The certifying process is extremely detailed, especially since the introduction of the Post-9/11 GI Bill (Chapter 33). I take great pride in my work with our veterans at Davenport University to help them through this sometimes difficult and complex benefit process.

My formal training includes a BAS (Bachelor of Applied Science) and a MBA (Master of Business Administration), which I earned from Davenport University. Since working in the role of Certifying Official, I have become more aware and appreciative of our military and the students who serve in this capacity. Moreover, my understanding of their military experience has been enlightened. I believe that our VA students are important as individuals and I make it my job to help make each of our veteran’s experience at DU an exceptional one. Therefore, as a professional, it is my commitment to provide the best customer service and to do everything I possibly can to help each of our Veterans along the way as they strive to reach their educational goals.