Ohio recognizes colleges that support student veterans

Cleveland.com highlighted an Ohio program that recognizes institutions like the University of Cincinnati that support military-affiliated students.

The Collegiate Purple Star program celebrates schools that go the extra mile for student veterans and the dependents of veterans. These schools have a dedicated point of contact for military personnel, provide priority registration to veterans and active service members, survey student veterans about their needs and challenges and offer student-led organizations.

UC counted 2,221 student veterans or dependents of veterans among its 53,682 students enrolled in the fall 2025 class. UC recognized 247 student veteran graduates at spring commencement this year.

“We’re proud of that number,” said Terence Harrison, a master sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserves and program manager for UC’s Veterans Programs & Services. “That means veterans want to come here. And those that are here want to graduate.”

UC was recognized with the three-year Collegiate Purple Star in 2022. It was renewed last year.

“I think it starts with our staff. When we get emails or calls inquiring about what we offer veterans, our staff is quick to answer,” Harrison said. “We also work with colleges and UC Online whenever a veteran enrolls. We send the student a separate welcome from the Office of Veterans Programs and Services.”

UC offers a student veteran mentorship program through the nonprofit 3rd and Goal Foundation. And Disabled American Veterans provides scholarships to student veterans at UC Blue Ash.

“We’re doing a great job for our student veterans at UC and it’s being recognized,” Harrison said. “We take great care to make sure student veterans have the resources they need to succeed at UC.”

Featured image at top: An honor guard stands in front of Tangeman University Center during UC's Veterans Day celebration. Photo/Jay Yocis/UC