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For the tenth year in a row, William Paterson University has been recognized in the Guide to Military Friendly Schools, honoring those institutions “that are truly doing better for veterans.” That is, those institutions implementing best practices and policies to recruit, develop and support student veterans, with the goal of providing them the tools they need to successfully move into the next chapter of their lives.
“We are very proud of receiving this recognition for 10 consecutive years. More importantly, we are proud of our veterans, active military and dependents of veterans for their service and sacrifice,” says Miki Cammarata, vice president for student development at William Paterson University. “They contribute to the diversity of our community and offer a unique and important perspective.”
Sixty percent of the Military Friendly Schools’ recognition is based on military student support and retention, as well as graduation and career outcomes. Financial aid, academic policies, and campus culture are among the other markers used in measuring institutions.
The University’s Office of Veteran and Military Affairs (OVMA) offers information, resources, and a supportive environment for veterans, active duty service members and dependents of veterans, and provides assistance with the unique challenges students face as they transition from military service to college life. For example, office staff provide veteran-centered academic support, career services, and referrals to health care and wellness resources and on-campus and off-campus housing.
The OVMA also provides a one-stop admissions process for veterans and active duty service members that includes private campus tours led by veterans, tailored admissions guidance, G.I. Bill and military educational benefits counseling and application.
“In addition to being a service and information hub, the OVMA is a focal point for our veterans to gather and interact informally and forge the bonds they found during service,” explains William Paterson University OVMA Coordinator Silvia Barrera, noting events and activities hosted on campus such as the 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony, Veterans Day Flag Planting and Remembrance Day, and a Veterans Graduation Recognition Ceremony.
Additionally, William Paterson University’s OVMA hosts the only co-ed veteran fraternity in New Jersey, Omega Delta Sigma, and a Student Veteran Organization.
“We also advocate for service members called to serve during the school year and offers Military Leave Policy assistance,” Barrera adds, noting that 10 William Paterson students were recently called into active duty in support of New Jersey’s efforts to mitigate the spread and impact of COVID-19.
For the 2019-2020 academic year, William Paterson University enrolled 137 veteran-students, 40 of whom graduated last month.
