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William Paterson University in Wayne has been designated a 2026-27 Gold Level Military Friendly® School by VIQTORY, a company that honors institutions that implement the best practices and policies for veterans. This is the 16th year in a row that the institution has been recognized for its support for veterans.
Schools earning the Military Friendly® School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. William Paterson was recognized at the Gold Level within the Small Public Category. It was also designated as a 2026-2027 Military Spouse Friendly® School. The 2026-27 Military Friendly® Schools list will be published in April issue of G.I. Jobs magazine well as on the website www.militaryfriendly.com.
“We are honored to once again be designated as a military-friendly institution,” says Miki Cammarata, vice president for student development at William Paterson University. “Our students who are veterans, active military, and dependents of veterans bring a unique and important perspective to our campus, and we are proud to help them achieve their goal of a college education.”
“This distinction proudly celebrates William Paterson University’s continued commitment to serving those who have served our nation,” says Silvia Barrera, coordinator of veteran and military affairs. “Being recognized this year with Military Friendly Gold status reflects the strength of the University’s veteran focused support system, which includes a streamlined benefits process, veteran‑specific orientations, personalized academic assistance, career services, workshops, and dedicated resources designed to student veterans’ success. This recognition affirms the University’s deep appreciation for their service and remains deeply invested both during their time on campus and beyond.”
William Paterson University’s support for veterans was recognized in 2022 with a “We Value Our Veterans” Community Award presented by then-Governor Philip Murphy and Brigadier General Lisa Hou, Adjutant General and Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. The award recognized the contributions of the University’s student, faculty, staff, and alumni veterans, as well as the work of those who supports them on campus and in the community.
William Paterson University’s Office of Veteran and Military Affairs offers information, resources, and a supportive environment for veterans, active-duty service members, and dependents of veterans. It also helps with the unique challenges that students face as they transition from military service to college life.
An example of this commitment is the William Paterson Global War on Terrorism Tuition Waiver. With this waiver, veteran students who have exhausted their educational benefits can continue their studies and obtain their degree through this unique University program designed to help student veterans achieve their academic goals.
"William Paterson University has a proven history of supporting veterans, service members, and their families. As a student veteran and former Student Veterans of America (SVA) chapter president, I’ve experienced firsthand the level of commitment the institution provides to those who have served and continue to serve today,” says Israel Vargas-Reyes, U.S. Army, who will earn a bachelor’s degree in management in spring 2026. “The University not only supports our transition but also empowers us to lead, grow, and make a meaningful impact within the student community. That continued investment is why I chose to remain at William Paterson to pursue my MBA. Knowing I have a strong support system, and an ever-growing community of like-minded individuals is a powerful asset as I work toward success."
The Office of Veteran and Military Affairs also hosts activities on campus such as the 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony, Veterans Day Flag Planting, and a Veterans Graduation Recognition Ceremony, and supports the Student Veteran Organization on campus.
