UWF earns Gold-level Military Friendly Distinction
The University of West Florida has been recognized as a gold-level University in the large public school category in the annual Military Friendly Schools list for 2020-2021. UWF was the only large, public school in Florida and one of two in the nation to earn the gold distinction for success in helping veterans make the transition from the military to school and, ultimately, rewarding careers in the civilian world.
“‘Military-friendly’ is who we are as a University,” said UWF President Martha D. Saunders. “We take pride in earning a gold-level honor and will continue to serve those who have served, are serving, or will serve our country, in a variety of meaningful ways.”
This ranking joins a number of accolades that distinguish UWF as an institution committed to sustained success for veterans, active duty members of the armed forces, future Army and Air Force officers and other military affiliated students. Accolades include Military Friendly® University designation for over 10 years, Top 20 for Best Colleges for Veterans by U.S. News and World Report, Military Friendly Spouse School and Purple Heart University by local chapter of Military Order of Purple Heart.
“To be recognized by Military Friendly® year after year is a testament to our dedicated and caring staff,” said Lori Milkeris, director of UWF’s Military and Veterans Resource Center. “Everyone in this office has walked in similar shoes one way or another. When you come to UWF, you are not alone, you’re with family. This honor affirms our commitment to our veterans and their families.”
Military Friendly® scored nearly 1,700 schools who completed its survey by using an outside advisory council that provides perspective on criteria, methodology and weighting. A third-party auditor then verified the results.
Award levels are defined as:
- Top 10 Gold – A ranked list of the Top 10 in a category based on a numerical score.
- Gold – within 10% of the last ranked organization in Top 10 Gold.
- Silver – within 20% of the last ranked organization in Gold.
- Bronze – within 30% of the last ranked organization in Silver.
- Designated – These organizations are deemed Military Friendly® based on survey results.
Military Friendly Schools awards colleges and universities that demonstrate positive education outcomes for veterans and their families. Only 625 schools received Military Friendly® distinction for 2020-2021.
To see a complete list of this year’s award winners, or to learn more about Military Friendly ratings and how to participate, visit militaryfriendly.com
For more information about the Military and Veterans Resource Center, visit uwf.edu/mvrc.
The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
