Support on campus, graduation and employment outcomes among criteria for selection
SPRINGFIELD – Missouri State University has been designated a 2016 Military Friendly® School by Victory Media, the leader in successfully connecting the military and civilian worlds, and publisher of G.I. Jobs, STEM Jobs and Military Spouse.
Missouri State was selected for the honor as a result of a variety of factors, including providing priority registration for veterans, support from Veteran Student Services staff members and enrollment in a veteran-focused first-year transition class. In addition, about 150 veterans serve as faculty and staff at the university.
“This is an important designation that military-connected students seek when evaluating higher education opportunities,” said Raeleen Ziegler, interim director of Veteran Student Services. “It is an honor to be among the top 20 percent of schools who have received the designation. Our office is dedicated to helping military-connected students have exceptional experiences at Missouri State. I believe our one-on-one customer service with each student sets us apart from other institutions.”
About the Military Friendly® designation
The Military Friendly® Schools designation is awarded to the top colleges, universities, community colleges and trade schools in the country that are doing the most to embrace military students, and to dedicate resources to ensure their success both in the classroom and after graduation.
The methodology used for making the Military Friendly® Schools list has changed the student veteran landscape and has played a significant role over the past seven years in capturing and advancing best practices to support military students across the country.
Now in its seventh year, the original premier Military Friendly® Schools designation provides service members and their families with transparent, data-driven ratings about post-military education and career opportunities.
How Missouri State earned the recognition
Institutions competed for the elite Military Friendly® School title by completing a survey of over 100 questions covering 10 categories, including military support on campus, graduation and employment outcomes, and military spouse policies.
Survey responses were scored against benchmarks across these key indicators of success. In addition, data was independently tested by Ernst & Young based upon the weightings and methodology established by Victory Media with guidance from an independent advisory board of higher education and recruiting professionals. A full list of board members can be found at MilitaryFriendly.com/advisory-board.
“Post-secondary institutions earning the 2016 Military Friendly® School award have exceptionally strong programs for transitioning service members and spouses,” said Daniel Nichols, chief product officer of Victory Media and Navy Reserve veteran. “Our Military Friendly® Schools are truly aligning their military programs and services with employers to help students translate military experience, skills and training into successful careers after graduation.”
Missouri State will be showcased along with other 2016 Military Friendly® Schools in the annual Guide to Military Friendly® Schools, special education issues of G.I. Jobs® and Military Spouse Magazine, and on MilitaryFriendly.com.
For more information about Missouri State’s commitment to attracting and supporting military students, contact Raeleen Ziegler at (417) 836-6444 or visit the office of veteran student services.
