Eastern Connecticut State University has been named a recipient of the inaugural 2020-21 Military Support Colleges of Distinction Award. The award, presented by “Colleges of Distinction,” recognizes colleges and universities that dedicate resources to service members and veterans of the military.

More than 600 Eastern faculty, staff and students are veterans, active military or reserves service members. “Institutions with the Military Support recognition are aware of the unique challenges military students face on college campuses,” wrote Erin Pettus, vice president of outreach for Colleges of Distinction (CoD), in a letter to Eastern President Elsa Núñez.

“These institutions are proud to support and cultivate the skills that military students bring to the classroom, all while helping them achieve their personal and professional goals. Your school’s practices to create a supportive environment were monumental in helping us set the standards for this new badge. Congratulations on being part of our initial cohort!”

In determining award winners, Pettus said CoD examined university offerings in comprehensive educational benefits; military and veterans affairs teams; flexible and accessible options; faculty training; campus activities and community support.

Eastern student veterans can access a range of resources through the University’s Veterans Center, including on-campus mental health services. Eastern’s Center for Internships and Career Development also helps veterans look for jobs and incorporate military experience into their resumes. The center also connects students to the local American Legion and Veterans Affairs offices. 

In addition to this new recognition of Eastern’s Veterans Center, Colleges of Distinction has also awarded Eastern CoD status for its career center, business programs, and the University’s teacher preparation programs.

About Colleges of Distinction

Since its inception in 2000, Colleges of Distinction (CoD) has visited hundreds of colleges and talked with thousands of students, professors, and alumni. Over the past 20 years, more than 370 institutions have been recognized and more than five million students and parents have been served.  CoD’s goal is to help parents and students navigate the college selection process to find the best fit for each student. CoD recognizes outstanding colleges and universities based on four criteria: Student Engagement, Teaching, Community and Outcomes.