University News

WIU: Best for Vets College 2024

November 14, 2024

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MACOMB/MOLINE, IL – For an astounding 14 consecutive years, Western Illinois University has been honored as a "Best for Vets College" by Military Times magazine. In the recently published 2024 rankings, with more than 300 schools in the lineup, Western ranked No. 69 overall, No. 55 in Public and No. 46 in Primarily in-person institutions. In Illinois, it had an impressive standing as the second highest of the Best for Vets institutions and ranked fifth among the institutions in the Midwest.

WIU's unwavering dedication to serving veterans and active service members continues to shine. According to Military Times, WIU's longstanding commitment to veterans and active service members spanning over a decade has solidified its position as a top institution for military-affiliated students. The cornerstone of this commitment is WIU's Veterans Resource Center, a hub of streamlined services and resources that caters to veterans, guard members, reservists, active duty personnel and their families.

WIU President Kristi Mindrup emphasized Western's dedication to the military community.

"On Veteran's Day and throughout the year, WIU recognizes and honors the courage and dedication of students, faculty, and staff who have served in the military. WIU is dedicated to fostering veteran student success in the classroom and in life; and recognizes that each veteran's experiences, perspectives, and engagement enriches our University community," Mindrup said.

The University goes beyond just offering flexible academic options; it provides a comprehensive support system for military-affiliated students. The heart of this support is the Wright Residence, which serves as the Veterans Resource Center (VRC). Here, veterans can access a one-stop solution to address any questions or concerns.

The VRC doesn't stop at individual assistance; it organizes group seminars and workshops tailored to the specific needs of the military student population. Additionally, the center has formed vital partnerships with various campus and community organizations, including faculty and staff that serve as military liaisons for most of the major departments and schools within the campus. These collaborations provide students with a broad spectrum of services, including assistance with VA benefits, military activation, academic and financial support, disability resources, healthcare, career development and personal wellness.

The center's facilities include computer access and dedicated study/meeting spaces. It's not just a place to seek help; it's a supportive community where student-veterans can find peer assistance from fellow student-veterans, creating a sense of camaraderie and shared experience.

For more information on resources available through VRC, contact Ronald Pettigrew at R-Pettigrew@wiu.edu or call (309) 298-3505.

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