STEPHENVILLE, Texas — Tarleton State University’s Military Friendly® School designation has been upgraded to gold level, recognizing the institution’s ongoing dedication to supporting veterans and military-connected students in achieving their academic goals.
“Advancing to the gold designation as a Military Friendly campus reinforces our commitment to veterans and military families,” said Tarleton State President Dr. James Hurley. “Supporting those who have served our country is not only central to our mission, but also a proud part of our 125-year legacy and a strategic priority.”
The Military Friendly standard, developed by VIQTORY, evaluates institutions based on their efforts to recruit, retain and advance veterans through a comprehensive algorithm that uses public data, institutional submissions and veteran surveys. Ratings range from pledge status to full designation and award levels — top 10, gold, silver and bronze.
Tarleton State achieved the silver designation in 2024. Since then, the university has enacted more veteran-friendly initiatives such as establishing a Veteran Friendly Office training program, ensuring disabled and Purple Heart veterans have access to dedicated parking, training faculty and staff in military friendly practices, and recognizing military-connected Texans during special events. An additional veteran’s academic advisor is being brought on board, and the university launches its eighth academic college Sept. 1 when the Leadership and Military College becomes the College of Leadership and Military Studies.
“We are elated to have achieved the gold designation as a Military Friendly campus,” said Dr. Sherri Benn, Vice President for Global, Community and First-gen Initiatives. “This adds to our momentum and motivation as we continue striving to be the best campus in the country supporting the educational and workforce needs of veterans and those in service to our country. We are proud of our military-connected Texans and will continue to work hard to maintain their trust and advance their success.”
For more information on Military Friendly and the standards behind the designation, visit www.militaryfriendly.com.
A founding member of The Texas A&M System, Tarleton State University is breaking records — in enrollment, research, scholarship, athletics, philanthropy and engagement — while transforming the lives of approximately 18,000 students in Stephenville, Fort Worth, Waco, Bryan and online. For 125 years, Tarleton State has been committed to accessible higher education opportunities for all while helping students grow academically, socially and professionally through programs that emphasize real world learning and address regional, state and national needs.