West Kentucky Community and Technical College has been named a 2016 Military Friendly® School by Victory Media, originator of Military Friendly® education and career resources for veterans and their families. This is the fourth time WKCTC has received the honor.
Now in its seventh year for ranking post-secondary schools, Victory Media’s Military Friendly® ratings recognize colleges with leading programs for veterans, members of the Armed Forces leaving military service and military spouses.
The company’s 2016 list highlights more than 1,400 Military Friendly® Schools exhibiting best practices in support of military students. Institutions of higher learning competed for the title by completing an extensive survey covering ten indicators of success, including support for student veterans on campus, graduation and employment outcomes and military spouse policies.
WKCTC is one of 19 Kentucky colleges to receive the Military Friendly designation, which includes five other Kentucky Community and Technical College System colleges. The full list of Military Friendly Schools can be found at militaryfriendlyschools.com.
“We are so proud to once again be named a Military Friendly School. WKCTC is committed to veteran success, and awards such as this allow us to be recognized nationally for the work we already do and the services we hope to expand in the future,” said Kristen Amaya, WKCTC veterans services coordinator.
As Veterans Day approaches, WKCTC is honoring veterans with a variety of events including WKCTC Veterans Night at the college’s West Kentucky Stars basketball game November 12, where veterans showing proof of service will be admitted free. Prior to the game, veterans will also be honored and recognized for their service and dedication to the country.
WKCTC students, faculty and staff are also submitting stories and photos to commemorate a loved one or friend who has served in the military. The collection will be displayed in WKCTC’s Matheson Library throughout November. The college’s Student Veterans organization is also participating in the 2015 Veterans Day Parade on November 11.
“We believe it’s important to treat veterans as if every day were Veterans Day. The respect and admiration among our faculty, staff and students is high for our veteran and military population,” said Amaya.
The college has a wonderful reputation among veterans and their peers, offering many services to help student veterans be successful, said Amaya.
“Many of those walking through our doors were told by a fellow veteran that our office could really help them; and indeed we do. Not only do we assist veterans with making the transition to the classroom, we take a holistic approach to ensure every other need can be served, including assistance with disability claims, employment, housing, mental health, and more.”
Registration for spring classes is currently underway. Call 1-(855) GO-WKCTC or visit westkentucky.kctcs.edu for class offerings. Spring classes begin January 11.