University of the Cumberlands (UC) and Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) have both recognized as a Top Veteran-Friendly School by U.S. Veterans Magazine.
Every year, U.S. Veterans Magazine evaluates employers, law enforcement, veteran outreach programs and schools across the country, identifying the most veteran-friendly organizations based on outreach and accessibility to veterans, military families and transitioning service members.
“We strive to encourage other companies to follow the lead and ultimately create a workforce that is supportive to our veteran community,” said Mona Lisa Faris, president and publisher of U.S. Veterans Magazine.
UC and EKU have both been recognized as 2024-2025 Military Friendly® Schools with EKU taking the second highest ranking in the country.
University of the Cumberlands has received gold status among private universities offering doctoral degrees, as ranked by Military Friendly®. This marks the third consecutive year Cumberlands has earned gold status from the organization.
In short, rankings by Military Friendly® are a gauge to tell which organizations – employers as well as higher education institutions – offer superior assistance to U.S. military veterans and current members.
Cumberlands first earned Military Friendly® status in 2018, making the Top 10 list nationwide among private universities offering doctoral programs in 2018.
University of the Cumberlands offers both in-seat and fully online degree programs to military personnel and veterans. Both in-seat and online students receive financial aid through the university.
EKU recognized
EKU has also received the No. 1 ranking in Kentucky for “Best for Vets” by the Military Times.
EKU is home to nearly 1,800 veterans, active-duty service members, Reserve/National Guard members and military spouses and children.
“EKU would not be the institution it is today without our veterans,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “We are always striving to serve the people who have given their all to serve us. We are honored to be recognized as a Top Veteran-Friendly School by U.S. Veterans Magazine, and we will use this pride as motivation to continue to find new ways to support our veterans.”
As part of EKU’s commitment to student veterans, the 3,000-square-foot Veterans Education and Transition Support (VETS) Center provides a centralized campus space just for veterans and military service members.
Other recent investments include the relocation of the EKU Veterans Memorial to Carloftis Garden; and the Kit Carson Commons Scholar House, prioritizing affordable housing for single-parent military service members and veterans enrolled in an approved post-secondary institution.
Additionally, EKU’s VETS|Ready Opportunity Portal allows potential students to see how their military training and experience can advance them toward degree completion.
