West Virginia University has picked up two 2023 “Best for Vets” awards from Military Times — “Best for Vets: College” and “Best for Vets: Employers.”
The University jumped five spots this year to 14th place — its highest ranking ever — in the College category, up five spots from last year’s rankings, and earned first place in the Appalachian region rankings.
This was also the first year the University made the list of the top 230 employers for Veterans from Military Times, which is an independent source for news and information for the military and Veteran community.
“This is a huge accomplishment, not only for WVU, but especially for the staff of the Center for Veteran, Military and Family Programs on campus,” said Penny Lipscomb, interim Center director.
“Our team members work hard, and go above and beyond what is expected, to support our military population. This is not just a job for us, but a way to give back to those who have sacrificed for our country. Our jump from number 19 to 14 proves our hard work is paying off. With further support from the University, our goal is to keep improving, to continue our commitment to excellence, and to become the best choice in higher education for our Veterans and their families.”
On campus, WVU has provided a space — known as The Bunker — where Veteran and military-connected students can access free tutoring services, study areas and direct contact with school certifying officials. Its goal is to ensure Veteran and military-connected students have access to all campus and community resources needed to enhance their overall college experience and it’s one reason why the University continues to be on the radar of Military Times.
That the University has now landed on the Employer list is a welcome development.
“Military Times sets the standard for employer rankings for transitioning service members and Veterans. Although often imitated, there is no other list that comes close to Best for Vets: Employers,” said Mort Greenberg, senior vice president of media solutions at Military Times. “We stand by the rigor and soundness of this survey, which spotlights companies’ employment programs that help transitioning service members excel in their post-military careers.”
The survey captures the areas of greatest importance to transitioning service members, Veterans and their families when looking for an employer. Recruitment and employment practices, as well as retention and support programs, were given the most weight and importance in scoring and final rankings.