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University of Dayton among first class earning Ohio designation for support of military-connected students

The University of Dayton is among the first group of colleges and universities earning Ohio's Collegiate Purple Star designation for being supportive and inclusive of military-connected students.

Criteria for selection include having a dedicated military/veteran point of contact and/or office on campus, establishing priority registration for veterans and servicemembers, and allowing the establishment of student-led groups and organizations for veterans and servicemembers. 

An advisory committee appointed by Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Randy Gardner and made up of representatives of the Ohio Department of Higher Education, the Ohio Veterans Education Council, the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, the Ohio Adjutant General's Department and the Military Interstate Children's Compact Commission K-12 Purple Star Committee makes the designations.

“The efforts of the University of Dayton and its Military and Veteran Programs and Services office have earned the university a place in this first group of Collegiate Purple Star designees,” Gardner said. “The support provided helps those who are transitioning to higher education or balancing their education with continued military service.”

More information on the Collegiate Purple Star program is available online at https://www.ohiohighered.org/purple-star.

Earlier this year, the University joined the U.S. Department of Defense Statement of Support Program, which affirms employer support for employees in the National Guard and Reserve. Employers pledge they will comply with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act and provide supervisors with tools to effectively manage employees serving in the National Guard and Reserve. Among the tools the program will provide is a live virtual training for employees in the Guard or Reserve and their supervisors.

The University, also registered with Ohio Means Jobs as a military-friendly employer, has identified at least 12 employees in the National Guard or Reserves and 100 military- or veteran-affiliated employees overall.

"In the classroom and our offices, current and past service members bring a distinct set of experiences and perspectives that enrich our community," UD President Eric F. Spina said. "We are humbled and thankful they have chosen us to further their education or careers, as we are humbled and thankful the state and federal governments have entrusted us with these designations."

For interviews, contact Shawn Robinson, associate director of news and communications, at srobinson1@udayton.edu or 937-232-2907.


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