Galloway, N.J. — Stockton University’s exceptional support for military veterans has once again been acknowledged, securing the 7th spot among small public schools nationwide in the latest Military Friendly ranking.
Among New Jersey schools in the small public schools category, Stockton claimed the top position. This marks the third consecutive year that Stockton has been honored with a Military Friendly designation, showcasing consistent improvement in its rankings. In the 2023-24 assessment, Stockton was awarded the Gold designation, following the Silver recognition in the 2022-23 academic year.
The accolade is a result of the Military Friendly Schools survey, recognized as the most extensive evaluation of colleges and universities in their efforts to cater to military and veteran students. Conducted by VIQTORY, a service-disabled, veteran-owned small business facilitating connections between the military community and civilian opportunities, the survey highlights Stockton’s unwavering commitment to supporting military-affiliated students throughout their academic journey.
Michael Barany, the director of the Military and Veterans Success Center (MVSC) at Stockton, attributed this achievement to the dedication of the university’s faculty and staff in providing personalized support services and referrals to both on- and off-campus partners. The focus on a ‘students first’ approach has been instrumental in fostering relationships crucial for the success of military-affiliated students.
Stockton’s program stands out for its specialized care for National Guard and Reserve students who have experienced activation and deployment in recent times. The MVSC, in close collaboration with faculty members, ensured minimal disruptions to these students’ academic pursuits, underscoring Stockton’s commitment to supporting its military-affiliated students holistically.
The rigorous evaluation process for the Military Friendly Schools Awards involved an assessment of public data sources and responses from a specialized survey. Out of over 1,800 participating institutions in the 2024-25 survey, only 10 small public schools were distinguished with a numerical ranking, with Stockton leading the way in New Jersey.
The methodology and criteria for the awards were meticulously crafted by VIQTORY in consultation with the Military Friendly Advisory Council, comprising independent leaders in higher education and military recruitment. The final ratings were based on a holistic assessment of various factors, including student retention, graduation rates, job placement, and loan repayment, tailored to meet the unique needs of student veterans.
Kayla Lopez, the national director of Military Partnerships for Military Friendly, emphasized the organization’s commitment to data-driven standards that promote positive outcomes and support services for the military community. The transparent designation process sets a benchmark for educational institutions to enhance their programs continually, fostering a competitive environment that drives innovation and investment in student support services.
Stockton University’s Military and Veterans Success Center (MVSC) aims to empower military-affiliated students, including veterans, active duty personnel, reservists, National Guard members, and their dependents, by providing comprehensive support services and access to quality education. With a focus on personal, academic, and professional success, the MVSC serves as a vital resource hub, offering assistance with education benefit certifications, socialization opportunities, and guidance on transitioning to civilian life.
For more information on Stockton University’s Military and Veterans Success Center, reach out via email at [email protected] or call 609-652-4315.