Saint Martin’s University honored with sixth gold award for its commitment as a military friendly school
In an impressive recognition of its dedication to serving the military community, Saint Martin’s University in Lacey has been awarded its sixth gold designation as a Military Friendly School for the 2025-26 academic year. This prestigious accolade, given by service-disabled, veteran-owned small business VIQTORY, underscores the university's unwavering commitment to providing exceptional educational opportunities and support services tailored to veterans and their families.
Annually, the Military Friendly School list serves as a vital benchmark for assessing higher education institutions that actively promote the well-being and advancement of military-affiliated students. This accolade is not merely a title; it reflects a comprehensive evaluation process that incorporates feedback from student veterans alongside responses to a proprietary data-driven survey designed by VIQTORY. For the 2025-26 cycle, over 1,800 schools participated in this comprehensive assessment, with an impressive 830 institutions achieving special awards for surpassing set standards.
Commitment to Military Support and Education
Saint Martin’s University stands out not only for its academic excellence but also for its holistic approach to community support and veterans services. The gold designation signifies a continuous effort to enhance the university's offerings to military-affiliated students. Bill Brownsberger, the university’s president, expressed the importance of this recognition in a recent communication: "This gold designation is a testament to that commitment, and we will continue to strengthen our support for those who have given of themselves in service to our country." This unwavering dedication is further exemplified by various initiatives aimed at empowering students with the skills and resources necessary to thrive in both academic and professional environments.
Key initiatives include:
- Washington Vets 2 Tech Program: A pioneering program designed to assist military veterans in gaining skills required for technology careers, ensuring a seamless transition into the workforce.
- Center of Excellence for Veteran Student Success: A dedicated center that focuses on offering customized support services to enhance the educational journey of veteran students.
- Inclusive Learning Environments: The campus promotes inclusivity, fostering a space where veterans and non-veterans alike can learn from each other's diverse experiences.
The Importance of Veterans in the Academic Community
Military-affiliated students bring a wealth of leadership experience and discipline to the academic setting, significantly enriching the university community. Adam Takata, director of the Washington Veterans to Technology Certificate Program, underscored this point by highlighting the invaluable perspectives that veterans contribute to the Saint Martin’s campus. “Our students arrive with unique backgrounds and strengths that enhance our learning environment. With dedicated programs like Washington Vets 2 Tech, we strive every day to support these veterans as they transition out of service and into education and new careers,” he remarked.
This emphasis on student empowerment is crucial in helping veterans continue their legacy of service in new and impactful ways, particularly as they pursue professional and academic goals alongside their civilian counterparts. The combination of military discipline and a dedicated educational framework provides a fertile ground for success.
Evaluating the Standards for Military Friendly Recognition
The rigorous standards set forth by VIQTORY for listing Military Friendly Schools include a thorough analysis of various performance metrics. The methodology, developed with input from a diverse Military Friendly Advisory Council, takes into account the institution's capacity to meet essential criteria impacting student success.
| Evaluation Metric | Importance | Impact on Students |
|---|---|---|
| Retention Rates | Ensures students stay enrolled until graduation. | Higher retention fosters a supportive learning community. |
| Graduation Rates | Indicates the effectiveness of educational services. | Higher rates correlate with successful program offerings. |
| Job Placement Rates | Measures how well institutions prepare students for the workforce. | Stronger placements enhance student confidence and success. |
| Loan Repayment Rates | Reflects financial responsibility and student commitment. | Reduces debt stress, allowing focus on studies. |
| Persistence Rates | Tracks degree progress and transfers. | Encourages continuous educational advancement. |
In 2025, these established benchmarks remain essential for higher education institutions understanding their role in facilitating the transition of veterans into civilian life. As VIQTORY has been connecting the military community with civilian employment and educational opportunities since 2001, the importance of a data-informed approach in educational initiatives cannot be overstated.
Recognition Beyond the Gold Award
Alongside the prominent gold designation, Saint Martin’s University has also received accolades as a Military Support College of Distinction and a Military Supportive College. Furthermore, the university proudly holds the title of the first Purple Heart University in Washington State, as recognized by the Order of the Purple Heart, signifying its commitment to honoring those who have served.
These recognitions are not merely accolades; they symbolize the university's dedication to creating an inclusive and supportive environment for military-affiliated students. Kayla Lopez, the national director of military partnerships at Military Friendly, emphasized the significance of transparency in the evaluation process, stating, "Our standards provide a benchmark that promotes positive outcomes and support services that better the educational landscape." This commitment to excellence continuously elevates the university’s reputation in the realm of higher learning.
Resources and Programs for Veteran Students
Saint Martin’s University actively invests in a range of programs designed to help veterans navigate their educational endeavors successfully. The focus is not solely on academic achievement but also on holistic support that addresses the various challenges faced by these students.
Here are notable resources available at Saint Martin's:
- Personalized Academic Advising: Tailored advising services ensure students receive guidance that aligns with their unique military experiences.
- Financial Aid Assistance: Dedicated offices help students with navigating benefits, ensuring financial stability throughout their studies.
- Networking Events: Regular events facilitate connections between veterans and potential employers.
- Peer Support Groups: Providing camaraderie and shared experiences that reinforce healing and adjustment.
The necessity for such support initiatives is crucial, particularly given the challenges frequently encountered by veteran students as they transition from military life to a traditional academic setting. The university’s community support focuses on providing a nurturing environment that promotes well-being and academic success.
Scholarship Opportunities for Veterans
In addition to standard financial aid, several scholarship opportunities are available specifically for veteran students at Saint Martin’s University. These scholarships aim to lighten the financial burden that often accompanies higher education and make quality learning accessible. Examples include:
- Veteran Scholarship Program: Offers financial assistance to veterans pursuing undergraduate and graduate degrees.
- Yellow Ribbon Program: Collaborations with the Department of Veterans Affairs facilitate additional funding.
- Emergency Assistance Fund: Provides short-term financial help for students facing unexpected financial challenges.
The multifaceted approach to veteran education and services at Saint Martin’s University embodies a spirit of inclusivity and empowerment that ultimately enhances the student experience.
Engagement with the Military Community
The active engagement of Saint Martin’s University with the military community extends beyond its campuses in Lacey and JBLM. This connection is crucial in fostering relationships that optimize educational and career opportunities for veterans. The university is committed to creating partnerships with local organizations that promote understanding and support for the unique challenges associated with military service.
Building Partnerships
In 2025, partnerships with various community organizations are instrumental in enhancing the quality of support available to veterans. Through outreach programs, the university facilitates connections between veterans and essential services. These partnerships also allow students to engage in community service initiatives, strengthening their sense of purpose and integration into civilian life.
Key partnerships include:
- Local Veteran Service Organizations: Collaboration with local agencies ensures that veterans receive comprehensive support.
- Transition Assistance Programs: Dedicated programs to help service members transition to civilian life successfully.
- Job Fairs and Career Expos: Events aimed at connecting veterans with prospective employers actively seeking military talent.
This ongoing dialogue between Saint Martin’s University and the military community assures that the institution remains responsive to the evolving needs of veterans. By actively engaging with local organizations, the university plays a pivotal role in ensuring that service members successfully transition into the academic world and beyond.
Future Advancements at Saint Martin’s University
Looking ahead, Saint Martin’s University is poised to continue its tradition of excellence in supporting military-affiliated students. As the university embraces innovative educational practices and expansion of its programs, the focus will remain steadfast on delivering exceptional services that empower veterans to excel.
Strategic Initiatives for Growth
In response to the dynamic landscape of education, Saint Martin’s is actively evaluating and refining its programs to meet the diverse needs of its military-affiliated student population.
Planned strategic initiatives include:
- Program Expansion: Development of new academic programs designed specifically for veterans seeking career pathways in in-demand fields.
- Enhanced Online Learning Options: Expanding online educational offerings to provide flexible learning solutions for those balancing work and family commitments.
- Increased Outreach Efforts: Growing the reach of recruitment initiatives specifically tailored to attract and support military students.
Ultimately, these advancements embody a commitment to academic excellence and the empowerment of military students, reinforcing Saint Martin’s University’s role as a leader in higher learning and a military friendly institution.