CAL U RECOGNIZED AS 2012 MILITARY FRIENDLY SCHOOL

Posted on September 12, 2011

For the third consecutive year, G.I. Jobs magazine has named California University of Pennsylvania one of the nation’s top Military Friendly Schools.

The publication’s 2012 Military Friendly Schools list honors the 20 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools that are doing the most to embrace America’s military service members and veterans as students. The list was compiled through extensive research and a data-driven survey of more than 8,000 schools nationwide.

The 1,518 colleges, universities and trade schools on this year’s list prioritize the recruitment of students with military experience. The magazine recognizes them for offering scholarships, veterans’ clubs, full-time staff and other services for military veterans. For the first time, G.I. Jobs also includes peer reviews provided by veterans on campuses across the country.

“It’s part of our campus culture,” says Capt. Robert Prah, director of the university’s Office of Veterans Affairs. “Cal U goes out of its way to help military members and veterans succeed.”

Through the Veterans Affairs Office, Cal U provides resources for active-duty military members, reservists and members of the National Guard, as well as veterans and their families.

In addition, Cal U has joined forces with GoArmyEd, a gateway to higher education for soldiers stationed anywhere in the world. Through the GoArmyEd portal, soldiers and their families have easy access to bachelor’s and master’s degree programs offered by Global Online, Cal U’s Internet-based learning community.

Even after they graduate, service members have free, lifelong access to the university’s Career Services Office, which offers one-on-one career and job-search planning for all Cal U alumni.

“The men and women who serve in the military deserve our respect,” said Angelo Armenti, Jr., president of California University. “It’s only right that we make every effort to support these students, whether they are taking classes on campus or pursuing a degree online.

“They and their families have made enormous sacrifices on our behalf. In return, we are committed to helping them meet their educational goals and build rewarding careers.”

A full story and detailed list of Military Friendly Schools will be highlighted in the annual Guide to Military Friendly Schools, available early next month. Online, www.militaryfriendlyschools.com features the list, plus interactive tools and search functions to assist military veterans with their decisions about higher education.