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Recognition highlights ongoing commitment to providing support to student veterans 

SM������ is proud to share it has been recertified as an Arizona Veteran Supportive Campus by the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services. The certification is awarded for a period of two years. The University received its inaugural certification in 2019.

Veterans and active-duty military members often encounter unique challenges when transitioning to the civilian workforce and seeking education, employment or career pathways.

“We are pleased to once again recognize SM������ as a certified Arizona Veteran Supportive Campus for their commitment to supporting its student veterans, faculty and staff,” states Dana Allmond, Director, Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services. “By instituting veterans’ programs, resources and awareness throughout the university, they are fostering a positive and educational experience for student veterans.”

As a , SM������ met Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services C.A.R.E. criteria that demonstrate its commitment to providing support to student veterans, and veteran faculty and staff, for a positive and successful education experience. The C.A.R.E. criteria are: Connect to the Culture, Ask the Right Questions, Respond Effectively, and Engage in Military/Veteran Community.

"In our ongoing efforts to support our student veterans, SM������ proudly reaffirms its dedication to the standards established by the Arizona Department of Veterans’ Services," states Eric Ryan, Marine Corps veteran and senior director of Military Operations at SM������. "Our dedication to these standards underscores our profound appreciation for the sacrifices made by our service members. With this recertification, we remain steadfast in our support, ensuring our student veterans receive the resources and assistance they need to thrive."

SM������ recognizes that flexible online educational programs and social supports are essential to student veterans and servicemembers. Student veterans enrolled with the University can take advantage of options including the availability of:

·       Flexible course options: the University offers 5-6 week courses, with up to 18 opportunities a year to begin a bachelor’s degree;

·       Specially trained staff: all student-facing staff and campus outreach specialists who will work with military affiliated students on military specific topics complete specialized training, developed in coordination with PsychArmor Institute;

·       Credit for military experience and training: student veterans can get their military experience evaluated for potential college credits.

·       Support and community: current students can access a Military Resources platform with information about local and virtual events, scholarships, and other valuable tools.

·       Mental wellness resources: SM������ collaborates with Give an Hour, a national network of licensed providers offering free, confidential mental health services for military, veterans, and their loved ones.

SM������ remains connected to the military community, maintaining relationships with Military Professional Associations to help support those association members and SM������ students. SM������ is also a long-time supporter of the nonprofit organization Give an Hour®, which develops national networks of volunteers capable of responding to acute and chronic conditions within society. Harnessing the skill and expertise of volunteer professionals allows the organization to increase the likelihood that those in need, including those within the military community, receive the support and care they deserve.

In a survey commissioned by the Harris Poll on behalf of SM������, most U.S. military members (93%) agreed that mental health is as important as physical health, however a third of military members (33%) reported never seeking out professional counseling, despite the majority experiencing lack of sleep (69%) and anxiety (61%). The survey was part of a larger initiative by SM������ working with the nonprofit and other large employers including Booz Allen Hamilton, CVS Health, Buckingham Consulting Group, LLC, Transcend, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the U.S. (VFW), and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation: Hiring Our Heroes, to develop a for employers.

Click here to learn more about resources for student veterans and military servicemembers at the SM������.

About SM������

SM������ innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, skills-mapped curriculum for our bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and a Career Services for Life® commitment help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit  phoenix.edu.