For the fourth year in a row, Concordia University Wisconsin has been recognized as a Military Friendly® School by Viqtory Media, earning the Silver level designation for the first time.
In recognition of its continuing efforts to support and assist its student veterans, CUW has once again earned this prestigious honor. More than 1,200 schools participated in the 2021-2022 survey with 747 earning the Military Friendly designation. Of those, only 232 earned a rating of “Silver” or higher. In Wisconsin, only nine schools reached that level of recognition.
“At Concordia University Wisconsin, we appreciate the sacrifice that military service demands, no matter where your career took you,” said Keith Casey, director of veteran services at CUW. “We are pleased to welcome all veterans to our campuses and center locations, regardless of your interest in academics.”
For the 2020-’21 school year, CUW served 281 veteran students, more than twice the number served at the closest private school competitor in Wisconsin. In addition, Concordia accepts more military transfer credits—up to 63—than any other school in Wisconsin.
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“A smooth transition into college life will aid in the long-term success of our veteran students,” Casey added. “We are here to help whether you are a first-time student, someone returning to finish their degree, or someone looking to continue their education in one of our graduate or doctoral programs.”
How Schools are Chosen
To achieve this designation, schools are evaluated for their ability to meet thresholds for student retention, graduation, job placement, loan repayment, persistence (degree advancement or transfer) and loan default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans.
Methodology, criteria, and weightings were determined by Viqtory Media with input from the Military Friendly Advisory Council of independent leaders in the higher education and military recruitment community. Final ratings were determined by combining the institution’s survey response set and government/agency public data sources, within a logic-based scoring assessment.
“Schools who achieve designation show true commitment and dedication in their efforts,” said Kayla Lopez, national director of Military Partnerships, Military Friendly. “Our standards assist schools by providing a benchmark that promotes positive educational outcomes, resources, and support services that better the educational landscape and provide opportunity for the military community.”
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“Organizations such as Military Friendly have recognized Concordia’s commitment to veteran success and learning in higher education,” Casey said. “We’re proud to have been designated a Military Friendly School since 2018, and are especially proud to have earned a Silver designation for 2021-’22.”
The 2021- 2022 Military Friendly Schools list can be found at www.militaryfriendly.com.
For more information about Veteran Services at Concordia, please visit the Military/Veterans Admissions page at cuw.edu.
— This story is written by Mike Zimmerman, corporate communications manager for Concordia University Wisconsin. He may be reached at michael.zimmerman@cuw.edu or 262-243-4380.
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