Grimes and UNF Partner for New Employee Educational Experiences Jacksonville, FL – January 7, 2015 - The Grimes Companies and University of North Florida Division of Continuing Education have collaborated to create a new employer-sponsored program called Personal Interest Courses. The concept called for the development of a traditional “group benefit” approach to establishing a cost model that allows TGC to offer its employees unrestricted access to UNF’s “http://tinyurl.com/learnq1” courses, offered by the Division of Continuing Education. “We are excited to partner with UNF in developing this program,” said Michael O’Leary, president of TGC. “The courses involved offer intellectual stimulation, creative outlets and add to a good work-life balance.” Unlike traditional tuition reimbursement programs, the PIC benefit initiative allows companies to offer access to classes without the administrative burden associated with managing reimbursements and delivers the value of predictable cost. “We're thrilled to expand the educational opportunities of TGC employees," said Bob Wood, Dean of UNF Division of Continuing Education. "The Division is committed to providing enrichment experience and workforce development for our community partners." The Division hopes to see increased participation not only in the PIC courses, but also in the professional development curriculum available outside of the PIC benefit initiative. In addition, the PIC program will establish predictable minimum revenue expectations based on corporate participation in the program. During the initial trial period of this unique program both UNF and TGC will evaluate the success of the initiative based on participation, employee / student feedback, and validation of the cost model. Following a successful trial UNF may extend access to the program to other companies in Jacksonville if there is adequate interest. Interested companies are encouraged to contact the Division of Continuing Education at (904) 620-4200 or www.learnjacksonville.com for more information. TGC, a Jacksonville, Fla. based company, provides a single-point solution for logistics and supply chain needs. TGC delivers warehousing, transportation, packaging and staffing services to its clients. UNF Division of Continuing Education is the premier provider of lifelong learning, workforce development and enrichment experiences. It is committed to economic development – one person, one company at a time and provides excellence through quality programs, customer satisfaction and transformational learning. UNF, a nationally ranked university located on an environmentally beautiful campus, offers students who are dedicated to enriching the lives of others the opportunity to build their own futures through a well-rounded education. Media Contact: Jo Przybylowicz Marketing Coordinator (904) 756-5711