OU retains Gold Ranking Among State’s Veteran-Friendly Schools

For the third straight year, Oakland University received a gold ranking, the highest possible rating for veteran-friendliness from the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA). The organization recognizes institutions of higher learning for dedication to student veterans and dependents using their G.I. Bill and other educational benefits.

Based on a variety of factors, the schools on this year’s list were grouped into bronze, silver and gold levels of recognition. To earn a gold-level designation, schools need to fulfill at least six out of the seven evaluation criteria. Oakland was among a select number of schools that met all seven criteria, listed below.

• Established process for identification of current student veterans
• Veteran-specific website
• Active student-operated veterans club or association
• Veteran-specific career services, resources, advising and/or outcome monitoring
• On-campus veterans coordinator and/or designated staff point of contact
• System to evaluate and award credit based on prior military training and experience
• Monitoring and evaluation of student veteran academic retention, transfer and graduation rates

“This is a great honor for Oakland University, and I am humbled to be able to play a part in receiving this well-deserved recognition,” said Eric Wuestenberg, Coordinator of OU Veterans Support Services. “Earning the MVAA’s Gold-level status for another year signifies that we continue to provide support to our military-connected students at the highest level possible, and they deserve nothing less.”

To learn more about veteran support services at Oakland, view the website at oakland.edu/veterans or call (248) 370-2010. Visit the Office of Veterans Support Services in 112 Vandenberg Hall.