Designations of Excellence
As Tarleton State University advances as a premier comprehensive university, we have been expanding student services and achieving the highest levels of excellence in multiple designations. The Lozano Long Division of Global, Community and First-Gen Initiatives is proud to have helped lead and collaborate in attaining these distinctions.
FirstGen Forward Network Champion
Tarleton State University has been named one of only 18 institutions nationwide recognized as a FirstGen Forward Network Champion. This prestigious designation honors colleges and universities that demonstrate national leadership and innovation in supporting first-generation student success.
The achievement reflects Tarleton’s deep commitment to helping first-generation students thrive through programs, partnerships, and initiatives that promote academic excellence, personal growth, and long-term success.
Gold-Level Military Friendly® Campus
Tarleton State University has achieved gold-level Military Friendly® Campus status, reflecting its commitment to supporting veterans and military-connected students through programs that enhance academic success and career readiness.
Developed by VIQTORY, the Military Friendly® standard measures an institution’s dedication to creating environments where service members, veterans, and military families can thrive.
Building on its 2024 silver recognition, Tarleton expanded veteran-focused initiatives—training faculty and staff in military support practices, adding a veteran academic advisor, and establishing the College of Leadership and Military Studies to strengthen leadership and service education.
A military-invested campus removes barriers and supports a smooth transition from service to college to graduation (Selber, Benn & Chavkin, 2021; Vacchi & Berger, 2014).
For more information, visit www.militaryfriendly.com.
VEERA Silver Level Award
The Texas Veterans Commission has recognized Tarleton State University with the Silver-level Veteran Education Excellence Recognition Award (VEERA) for its outstanding support of student veterans and military-connected families.
The designation reflects Tarleton’s commitment to a veteran-friendly campus, highlighting initiatives such as the Veterans Lounge, dedicated orientation, and faculty and staff training. The university aims to achieve Gold-level recognition next year by expanding career services and veteran engagement programs.
To find out more about the resources available for military-connected students, visit www.tarleton.edu/veterans/.