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East Tennessee State University has again earned national recognition for its commitment to veterans, active service members and military-affiliated students — this time securing Gold status in the 2025-26 Military Friendly® School rankings.

ETSU is one of just 32 large public institutions nationwide to receive the Gold-level designation, awarded through a rigorous evaluation of public data, student feedback and institutional programs.

For senior Nate Nelson, a U.S. Army veteran who deployed during Operation Iraqi Freedom, the recognition reflects his personal experience.

“ETSU has been a huge part of my journey,” said Nelson, who is completing a degree in health sciences with a concentration in exercise physiology. “From day one, the Office of Military and Veteran Services helped me navigate my VA benefits, register for the classes I needed and just feel like I belonged again. It’s been one of the most welcoming and supportive places I’ve been since leaving the military.”

Nelson first joined the Army in 2007. After years of service that included a deployment to Iraq and multiple stateside assignments, he transitioned to civilian life and eventually made the decision to return to school.

ETSU, he said, helped him find his way.

“The people here understand what we’ve been through,” he said. “At the MARC center, through the Student Veterans of America chapter, in the classroom. ETSU isn’t just saying it supports veterans. It’s showing it every day.”

That support includes personalized advising, priority registration, work-study opportunities and access to dedicated space at the Military-Affiliated Student Resource Center (MARC) in Yoakley Hall. The university also offers Green Zone training for faculty and staff, helping them better understand the student veteran experience.

“Our team is honored to walk alongside these students,” said Col. Dan Bishop, director of Military and Veteran Services. “There’s an incredible tradition here of servant leadership, and we take great pride in making sure military-affiliated students have the resources and relationships they need to thrive.”

ETSU has now earned the Military Friendly® School designation for 15 consecutive years.

“We are proud to be a place where veterans and their families feel seen, supported and empowered,” Bishop added. “This Gold ranking is an important recognition, but the real reward is seeing our students succeed in and out of the classroom.”

Need assistance? Visit Military and Veteran Services or contact va@etsu.edu or (423) 439-6819.