University News

WIU: Military Friendly School for Nine Consecutive Years

February 7, 2018

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Veterans admissions information can be found at wiu.edu/student_services/veterans.

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL -- Western Illinois University's long tradition of honoring and serving veterans and active members of the armed forces can be traced back to the school's early beginnings. Because of Western's ongoing support of veterans and active service personnel, the University has once again been recognized as a "Military Friendly School" by G.I. Jobs Magazine (Victory Media).

Western has achieved the Military Friendly Schools Bronze designation. This is the ninth consecutive year the University has been ranked by G.I. Jobs Magazine. Western is one of four Illinois public institutions to receive the 2018 special designation ranking.

According to Victory Media, Military Friendly Awards showcase the most powerful and effective programs of more than 1,200 post-secondary schools and 200 companies. Of those designated, over 500 public and private colleges and universities have been recognized for excellence in different categories.

"We are proud to provide educational opportunities and support to active military personnel and veterans," said WIU President Jack Thomas. "The continued recognition affirms our longstanding commitment and dedication of providing outstanding academic programs and resources to the women and men of the armed forces."

In December 2017, Western was selected, for the eight consecutive year, as a Military Times "Best College" (formerly known as "Best for Vets College") by Military Times magazine.

"Western provides phenomenal service and support to veterans and active personnel," added John Kennealy, a WIU senior computer science major and U.S. Army veteran. "Not only is the transition to Western incredibly easy, but I cannot say enough about Kathy Meyers of the WIU Veterans Resource Center and the service and support she provides through the center."

The University's Wright Residence, which serves as the Veterans Resource Center, provides streamlined services and resources in a centralized location to ensure all veterans, guard members, reservists and active duty personnel receive individual assistance with any question or concern they may encounter. The center also sponsors a series of group seminars and workshops each year based on the current needs of its military student population.

The center has established partnerships with various campus and community organizations. Students gain direct access to a comprehensive array of services such as VA benefits, financial assistance, disability resources, health care, career development and personal wellness. The center also features computer access, a study/meeting room, a three-season porch and student-veteran peer assistants who work with student-veterans.

In addition, military outreach is a central component of the WIU President's Executive Institute (PEI). During Fiscal Year 2017, WIU leaders visited Rock Island Arsenal, Scott Air Force Base and Ft. Leonard Wood. During FY18, to date, University officials have visited the Rock Island Arsenal, Ft. Bliss, Ft. Leavenworth, Jacksonville Naval Air Station, Marine Air Corps Station, Mid-South Naval Base, Naval Base Kitsap and the U.S. Naval Academy.

For more information about veterans' resources at Western Illinois University, contact Meyers at KJ-Meyers@wiu.edu or (309) 298-3505.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing