Kennesaw State University (KSU) proudly wears its “Best Universities for Veterans” ranking by Military Times as a badge of honor.
The publication’s annual ranking identifies colleges and universities that offer exceptional support and resources for veterans, service members, and military families. With more than 2,000 military-connected students, including nearly 600 veterans, KSU is committed to ensuring that these students not only thrive academically but also have the tools to succeed beyond the classroom.
“Kennesaw State University is proud to support our nation’s veterans in pursuit of their academic and career goals,” KSU President Kathy S. Schwaig said. “This recognition from Military Times reflects our priority to provide a world-class education to students who have served their country, and we will continue to offer support systems that help them succeed both in and out of the classroom.”
Kennesaw State is no stranger to being a trailblazer for veteran services in Georgia. As the first University System of Georgia institution to open a Military and Veteran Services (MVS) department in 2009, KSU set a high standard for providing comprehensive and accessible resources for military-connected students.
The department serves as an invaluable hub for service members, veterans, and dependents, guiding them through the process of starting or continuing their college education. From navigating U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs educational benefits to providing essential counseling services and career planning support, KSU’s MVS team ensures veterans have everything they need to succeed academically and beyond.
Along with the resources available on campus, MVS partners with more than 20 community organizations to support veterans. They award several scholarships, have an active Student Veterans of America chapter, and host programming throughout the year to engage all students and connect them with the resources they need.
“We understand the unique challenges that veterans face when transitioning to college life, and we are here to ensure they have the tools and support they need to succeed,” said Stacey Dixon, director of KSU Military and Veteran Services and a 20-year Marine Corps veteran. “Our team is committed to empowering veterans and military-connected students by providing resources, guidance, and a strong community to help them achieve their aspirations.”
The Military Times rankings consider several key factors when evaluating universities for their “Best for Vets” list. To determine which institutions are best equipped to support veterans, the publication surveys hundreds of colleges and universities across the nation. The survey results are combined with a scoring rubric that measures critical factors such as student success rates, the range of military-specific resources, and the level of financial assistance offered.
According to Military Times, student success metrics are the most crucial factor in determining a school’s ranking. Other considerations include admissions policies, human resources, and the quality of support systems available to military-connected students.
The recognition by Military Times represents a continued promise to prioritize the success of our military students for years to come. By evolving our offerings and fostering a community-driven campus environment, KSU affirms veterans’ success in their academic pursuits—and in life after graduation.
