As Veterans Day approaches, UNF honored for dedication to military student success and support

The University of North Florida has once again been recognized as one of the top institutions in the nation by Military Friendly, marking its 15th consecutive year on the list and earning a silver recognition status. UNF has also been designated a Collegiate Purple Star Campus by the Florida Department of Education for the 2024-25 academic year.

The 2024-25 Military Friendly Schoolslist highlights institutions across the country that actively support military students, providing resources to ensure their academic success and smooth transition to post-graduation careers. This recognition is based on extensive research of more than 8,800 schools, evaluating metrics such as retention and graduation rates, job placement, loan repayment and default rates, with a specific focus on student veterans.

"UNF is proud to support our military community and hold the military-friendly designation since the establishment of the MVRC in 2009," said Bill Cousins, UNF's Military and Veterans Resource Center (MVRC) director. "This recognition reflects the university's longstanding commitment to serving military-connected students, families, faculty and staff."

The Collegiate Purple Star Campus Program, established by the Florida Legislature in 2023, acknowledges public postsecondary institutions that demonstrate significant dedication to supporting military families. To earn this designation, colleges must meet specific criteria, including various outreach activities and initiatives focused on military personnel and their families.

UNF's military-connected student population, utilizing VA education benefits, has been steadily increasing over the past five years. As of the Fall 2024 term, there are over 2,200 military-connected students - more than 11% of the University's overall student body.

In recognition of Veterans Day, UNF hosted its 14th annual Veterans Day Tribute on Nov. 7 at Veterans Plaza, honoring the selfless service and sacrifices of its military-connected students, faculty, staff, alumni and community members.