Northwood University has been recognized as a Veteran-Friendly School for the 2023-24 school year by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency.
“Northwood University is proud to serve our veterans — and their families,” stated Northwood President Kent MacDonald. “We owe these fine Americans so much for all they have done to ensure freedom for liberty and business for all.”
Known as America’s Free Enterprise University, Northwood is among 62 universities, colleges or trade schools that have been designated as Veteran-Friendly Schools for the 2023- 24 school year.
The VFS program, created in 2015-16, recognizes academic institutions committed to supporting the needs of veterans and military-connected students. These institutions are awarded Gold-, Silver-, and Bronze-level status based on their veteran-centric services and programs. Any academic institution or training facility in Michigan eligible to receive veteran education benefits can apply for the program.
Northwood has earned Gold-level status. Other Gold-level schools range from public universities such as the University of Michigan and Northern Michigan University to trade schools such as Midwest Truck Driving School and the North Country Heavy Equipment School.
“We are incredibly grateful to have 62 Veteran-Friendly Schools in Michigan that are committed to supporting their student-veteran population,” stated MVAA Director Adam Hollier. “Making the transition from boots and a helmet to a cap and gown can be a daunting process, but having guidance and resources from their academic institution is a game changer. Their talent and experiences matter, and the best way to thank a student veteran for their service is to support them in their journey and offer them a job after they graduate. I want to wish our student veterans the best as they start this next academic year and continue their educational journey.”
Universities, colleges or trade schools interested in becoming a Veteran-Friendly School must meet the criteria below:
1. Established process for identification of current student veterans
2. Veteran-specific website
3. Active student veteran organization or club
4. Veteran-specific career services, resources, advising, and/or outcome monitoring
5. On-campus veterans’ coordinator and/or designated staff point of contact
6. System to evaluate and award academic credit based on prior military training and experience
7. Monitoring and evaluation of student veteran academic retention, progress, and graduation rates
Schools that complete six or more of the above earn Gold-level status. Those who complete four earn Silver, and Bronze goes to schools who complete three.
Learn more about the program on the MVAA dashboard.
