MACON/ATLANTA/SAVANNAH – Mercer University has been designated a 2016 Military Friendly School® by Victory Media, the leader in successfully connecting the military and civilian worlds and publisher of G.I. Jobs, STEM Jobs and Military Spouse.
Now in its seventh year, the original, premier Military Friendly Schools® designation provides service members and their families with transparent, data-driven ratings about post-military education and career opportunities.
Mercer works extensively to better assist military-connected prospective students through the enrollment process for traditional, non-traditional and graduate programs. These efforts have also resulted in the institution being named Georgia's first Purple Heart University.
“Mercer's designation as a 2016 Military Friendly School® acknowledges university leadership and its strong, steadfast commitment in support of military-connected students, veterans and their families. The university's participation in the Post-9/11 GI Bill, the Yellow Ribbon Program, the Reserve and Veteran Education Assistance programs further signifies Mercer's commitment to serve our veterans and service members and instill in them a passion to use their incredible military knowledge and Mercer education to shape their future and our world,” said Scott Mahone, assistant director of center operations and a retired Army lieutenant colonel.
Institutions competed for the elite Military Friendly School® title by completing a survey of over 100 questions covering 10 categories, including military support on campus, graduation and employment outcomes, and military spouse policies. Survey responses were scored against benchmarks across these key indicators of success.
In addition, data was independently tested by Ernst & Young based upon the weightings and methodology established by Victory Media with guidance from an independent advisory board of higher education and recruiting professionals. A full list of board members can be found at MilitaryFriendly.com/advisory-board.
The Military Friendly Schools® designation is awarded to the top colleges, universities, community colleges and trade schools in the country that are doing the most to embrace military students, and to dedicate resources to ensure their success both in the classroom and after graduation.
The methodology used for compiling the Military Friendly Schools® list has changed the student veteran landscape to one much more transparent, and has played a significant role over the past seven years in capturing and advancing best practices to support military students across the country.
“Post-secondary institutions earning the 2016 Military Friendly School® award have exceptionally strong programs for transitioning service members and spouses,” said Daniel Nichols, chief product officer for Victory Media and Navy Reserve veteran. “Our Military Friendly Schools® are truly aligning their military programs and services with employers to help students translate military experience, skills and training into successful careers after graduation.”
For more information on Mercer's commitment to attracting and supporting military students, visit workingadults.mercer.edu/military.
Mercer will be showcased along with other 2016 Military Friendly Schools® in the annual Guide to Military Friendly Schools, special education issues of G.I. Jobs and Military Spouse Magazine, and on MilitaryFriendly.com.
