Oakland University is among select colleges and universities in Michigan being recognized for the exceptional support services it provides to student veterans.
The Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA) recently released its 2016-2017 list of Veteran-Friendly Schools, which recognizes institutions of higher learning for their dedication to student veterans and dependents utilizing their G.I. Bill and other educational benefits.

Oakland University is Veteran Friendly
“These rankings make it simple for veterans and their dependents to identify Michigan schools committed to helping them succeed,” MVAA Director James Robert Redford said in a news release. “Veterans will also know exactly what services are available to them when they walk onto campus.”
Based on a variety of factors, the 65 schools on the list were grouped into bronze, silver and gold levels of recognition. Oakland was one of 44 schools to earn a gold-level designation and one of 31 schools that fulfilled all seven evaluation criteria, listed below.
- Established process for identification of current student veterans
- Veteran-specific website
- Active student-operated veterans club or association
- Veteran-specific career services, resources, advising and/or outcome monitoring
- On-campus veteran’s coordinator and/or designated staff point of contact
- System to evaluate and award credit based on prior military training and experience
- Monitoring and evaluation of student veteran academic retention, transfer and graduation rates
OU Registrar Steve Shablin said, “I am very pleased that Oakland University has achieved gold status for the support we provide our student veterans and dependents. The highest ranking status is a testament to the many offices here at OU that are committed to making their experience the most productive and successful. We are honored to serve our veterans who have ably served our country.”
To learn more about veteran support services at OU, visit www,oakland.edu/veterans or call (248) 370-2010.