Chippewa Valley Times

For veterans and active military students, the University of Wisconsin-Stout (UW-Stout) has been recognized as the leading public university in Wisconsin. It is also considered one of the top institutions in the United States for higher education for veterans.

The 2024 Best for Vets Colleges list, released by Military Times on November 4, placed UW-Stout first among public universities or colleges in Wisconsin. The university was ranked 12th in the Midwest and 112th nationally out of 304 schools. Retired Army Lt. Col. Brian Hackner, who coordinates military education benefits at UW-Stout, stated, "UW-Stout provides a welcoming and supportive environment that fosters academic success, personal growth and career readiness."

This year, UW-Stout received a gold designation as a Military Friendly® School for its commitment to providing sustainable educational paths for military community members. This marks the 16th consecutive year that UW-Stout has been named a Military Friendly School. Additionally, it earned recognition as a Military Spouse Friendly School.

Currently, UW-Stout enrolls 198 military and veteran students along with 629 spouses and children. Of these students, 366 are utilizing educational benefits. According to the university's latest First Destination report, all veteran graduates found employment within six months after graduation.

The university offers various resources through its Military and Veteran Resource Center (MVRC), which serves veterans, service members, and their families with support resources and activities. The MVRC provides a space for meetings or study sessions and offers complimentary snacks.

Other initiatives include a Council on Veteran Services, a student Veterans Club, veteran-centered events, and a Veteran Mentorship Program designed specifically for student veterans.

Academic opportunities at UW-Stout include an online course called Military Benefits 101 for first-year and transfer students; a minor in military leadership; and online certificates tailored to military-connected interests such as project management and strategic leadership.

Additionally, UW-Stout hosts an annual Military and Veterans Career Expo aimed at addressing employment challenges faced by veterans while connecting them with employers who value their experience.

The university honors fallen service members through its Memorial Wall known as the Hall of Heroes. It commemorates alumni from conflicts including World War I & II among others.

Military Times provides independent news to service members via publications like Air Force Times & Army Times under Sightline Media Group ownership.