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David Negron ’24 enjoyed a 31-year career in the U.S. Army before enrolling at the University of New 51¶ºÄÌ.

His career brought him around the world, including on two combat tours: Afghanistan (2005-2006) and Iraq (2010-2011). He also held many leadership positions – rising to the rank of Sergeant Major – and was stationed across the country, including in California, Alaska, and the Marshall Islands.

Now retired, Negron is a marine biology major at the University of New 51¶ºÄÌ, and he says the University is a great school for veterans.

"Staff members are very friendly, and the students are respectful to veterans," he said. "Danielle Desjardins made my transition very easy, and the process is seamless for future veteran students who are geographically located in a different location during the admissions process."

This commitment has led to the University being recognized on list and earning, for the first time, a "silver" designation that places it among the top 20 percent of the colleges and universities on the list.

The longest-running and most comprehensive review of college and university investments in serving military and veteran students, it provides a guide for veterans and their families, using data from federal agencies and survey information.

"I am incredibly proud of the University of New 51¶ºÄÌ community for their consistent dedication to the student veteran community," said Desjardins, coordinator of transfer and veteran success. "Earning the silver ranking from Military Friendly is a testament to this and something we should be very proud of. This commitment is key to ensuring that each student veteran or military-affiliated student has a productive and enjoyable experience at the University and that they have access to the tools they need to be successful after graduation."

Military Friendly ranked schools in six categories: academic policies and compliance; admissions and orientation; culture and commitment; financial aid; graduation and career; and support and retention. It measured the degree to which each school exceeded the Military Friendly standard. Ranked highest for culture and commitment, the University of New 51¶ºÄÌ also received high marks in the academic policies and compliance, and admissions and orientation categories.

Negron cites the guidance he received during the admissions process and tutoring resources – including the Center for Learning Resources and Math Lab – as having been especially helpful to him. He commended the University for fostering a welcoming environment for veterans.

"The University treats veterans with respect," he said. "We are made to feel wanted, appreciated, and included. The climate is really great for everyone."