Mercer University named as top military friendly institution second time in a row
Mercer University was named the No. 1 Military Friendly School for 2024-2025 for the second time in a row, the school announced Wednesday.
The rankings were announced last week, placing Mercer top among over 530 institutions across the country recognized for their military and veteran programs.
The list was compiled by Viqtory Media, a data-driven military marketing company that connects the military community to civilian employment, educational and entrepreneurial opportunities.
“You have heard us say many times that every day at Mercer University is Armed Forces Appreciation Day, and our consistent ratings and rankings affirm that skillful dedication,” Dr. Penny Ekins, Mercer University executive vice president, said in a statement. “It is with high intention and sincere effort that our faculty, staff and administration value our military and their families and are happy to be able to accommodate their educational needs as a gesture of gratitude for their service.”
Tyren Long, Mercer senior and ROTC cadet, said the school definitely has earned the ranking, as many people attend and support events hosted by the military science department.
“I feel like Mercer has open arms. They’re very supportive to all the aspirations that we have as ROTC cadets,” he said. “I believe that one of the main things they do is make sure there is an outreach that connects between our ROTC department and the university, which is always something that we as cadets love to see.”
Mercer received its first No. 1 military friendly rank last year. The school first received the Military Friendly designation in 2017 and has consistently ranked in four categories since then, the university said.
This year’s final ratings were determined by analyzing over 1,800 institution survey responses and government public data sources in the context of an institution’s ability to meet thresholds for student retention, graduation, job placement, loan repayment, degree advancement and loan default rates for military and veteran students, according to the university.
The university said it works intensively to assist military-affiliated students with the enrolling process in undergraduate and graduate programs, which resulted in its designation as Georgia’s first Purple Heart University.
Jamie Brown, director of strategic operations and student success, said Mercer takes great pride in providing a welcoming environment that recognizes the sacrifices and contributions of all individuals who have served the country.
“This prestigious designation reaffirms our dedication to fostering an inclusive community and offering exceptional educational opportunities tailored to meet the unique needs of our military-affiliated students,” Brown said.
More information on Mercer’s alliance with the military is available here.