by Alvernia University
Alvernia University earned a national endorsement in military support from Colleges of Distinction (COD), an advocate for colleges and universities whose program experiences are grounded in a philosophy of engagement, teaching, community, and outcomes. This recognition follows the opening of the newly renovated Veterans Center.
“With the launch of our enhanced Veterans Center, we reaffirm our commitment to empowering military students throughout their educational journey,” said Veterans Center Coordinator and Director of Admissions Bret Krotee. “The new Veterans Center aims to provide an enriching experience for students, educators, and the campus community. This upgraded space is not only a testament to our dedication to those who serve or who have served but also symbolizes our ongoing efforts to foster a community of inclusivity and support. I am thrilled to witness the fruition of this endeavor, knowing it will profoundly impact the lives of our military-affiliated students, providing them with the resources and environment they deserve to thrive academically and personally.”
The Alvernia University Veterans Center raises awareness about what is endured and accomplished by those who serve our country while providing them with an environment that assists them with the transition into higher education. The center provides anyone with ties to (or an interest in) the military with the resources, support, and advocacy necessary to succeed academically, personally, and professionally without membership fees or dues.
“I’m very proud of serving in the Army, and to have access to a beautifully appointed, clean, and quiet space for studying demonstrates to me, in a real tangible way, just how committed Alvernia’s administration is to supporting vets on campus,” said Veteran Student Jeffery Gibboni.
To earn a distinction in military support, Alvernia must offer comprehensive educational benefits, a military and veterans affairs team, flexible and accessible educational options, faculty training, campus activities specific to veterans, and community support. The expansion of the Veterans Center’s location increases the capacity for providing resources and personalized support to veteran students.
“Colleges like Alvernia University prioritize the well-being of individual military students rather than just the size of their GI Bill package,” said Tyson Schritter, Chief Operating Officer at Colleges of Distinction. “These institutions ensure comprehensive support for military students.”
This academic year, Alvernia University was also recognized by the COD for its business programs and education programs and was named a 2023-24 national Catholic and Pennsylvania College of Distinction.
Alvernia University is a Catholic comprehensive university with a liberal arts foundation founded by the Bernardine Franciscan Sisters in 1958. The university serves nearly 3,000 students in Reading, Pottsville, and Philadelphia with a unique blend of rigorous liberal arts education, strong technical training in many high-demand majors, ever-expanding experiential learning opportunities through study abroad and internship experiences, and community engagement through its Franciscan-based community service model.
Since 2000, Colleges of Distinction has been committed to honoring schools throughout the U.S. for true excellence in higher education. The member schools within the Colleges of Distinction consortium distinguish themselves through their dedicated focus on the undergraduate experience. Its website provides dynamic college profiles, customized tools, and resources for students, parents, and high school counselors. For more information and to learn how to become a College of Distinction, visit CollegesofDistinction.com.
