Southwestern has earned a Silver Award from Military Friendly® for the University’s inclusivity efforts for the military community. Presented annually, this honor recognizes the top universities in the country who create sustainable and meaningful education paths for the military community.

“At Southwestern University, we honor and recognize the invaluable experiences that student veterans and military-connected students bring to our campus community,” Southwestern Associate Registrar and VA School Certifying Official Nadia Mahannah said. “We appreciate the rich diversity of backgrounds, perspectives, and strengths they contribute, stemming from their service and life experiences. Their resilience, leadership, and unique perspectives enrich our university, fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment where every individual is valued and empowered to thrive.”

Over 1,800 schools nationwide were evaluated as part of the 2024-2025 rankings, with 178 institutions earning Silver Awards. Southwestern is one of just 27 private, non-doctorate Universities in the country to earn the award, including the only such school in the state of Texas.

Southwestern partners with the Veterans Administration to administer benefits to support veterans and their dependents who attend as full-time students. The University participates in a variety of programs to support the military community, including the Post 9/11 GI Bill®, Yellow Ribbon Program, Veteran Readiness & Employment program, and Survivors’ and Dependents’ Educational Assistance Program. Staff in SU’s Admission, Financial Aid, and Registrar’s Offices work with prospective students from the military community to develop academic and college financing plans.

Military Friendly® ratings are determined through the evaluation of public data sources and proprietary data gathered through the annual Military Friendly® survey process. Survey topics and questions are reviewed and developed with the assistance of an independent Military Friendly® Advisory Council comprising independent leaders in higher education.

Schools are scored on their efforts in the following areas: academic policies and compliance, admissions and orientation, culture and commitment, financial aid and loan repayment, graduation and career outcomes, and military student support and retention.

“Military Friendly® is committed to transparency and providing consistent data-driven standards in our process,” Military Friendly® Director of Military Partnerships Kayla Lopez said. “This creates a competitive atmosphere that encourages institutions to consistently evolve their programs. Award level schools have gone beyond that standard, showing true commitment and dedication in their efforts. The Military Friendly® benchmark promotes positive educational outcomes and support services that better the educational landscape and provide opportunity for the military community.”

For more information about the resources available for the military community at Southwestern University, please visit southwestern.edu/academics/records-registrar/veterans.

GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.