Monday, Apr 1, 2024
University awarded gold status in a survey of more than 1,800 schools
by Diane Cornell
Rider University has again earned the distinction of being named one of the nation’s top Military Friendly® schools, reflecting the University’s dedication to educating veterans and their military-connected family members.
The University’s status was recognized in the annual ranking by VIQTORY, an organization that helps connect the military community to civilian employment and other educational and entrepreneurial opportunities. More than 1,800 schools participated in the organization's 2024-2025 survey, with 537 institutions earning special awards for going above the standard. Rider University was given gold status, and also earned the designation of being a Military Spouse Friendly School.
Rider has a long and proud history of serving military veterans. The majority of Rider’s first inaugural class in 1865 were Civil War veterans and their families. Today, the University is an active participant in several veterans programs including the Yellow Ribbon Program, which allows qualified military men and women the opportunity to attend college at a private institution through enhanced tuition benefits and supplemental scholarships and grants provided by participating colleges and universities.
“This designation is an honor as it reflects the high level of support we offer our veterans as they work toward their post-military careers,” says Matt Samson, director of The Eugene Marsh Center for Veterans and Military Affairs at Rider.
Samson says Rider's designation as Military Friendly played an important role in his own decision to enroll at the University after he retired from the Air Force after 21 years of active duty service. He earned a master's degree in Organizational Leadership from the University in 2022.
“President Dell'Omo visited my squadron of aircraft mechanics and left a lasting impression that also influenced my decision,” says Samson. “Members of my squadron were invited to the University's Veterans Day Ceremony that same year, so witnessing and experiencing the support extended to us sealed the deal. Those types of actions are what truly make Rider Military Friendly.”
Rider offers various military education benefits through agreements with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, the Department of Defense and many others. A highlight of Rider’s veteran community is the Rider University Veterans Association (RUVA) which is a student organization that supports veterans as they transition from the structure of the military to a new experience in education. “RUVA is a backbone for veterans and military-connected students on campus, providing support as they work toward post-military careers,” says Samson.
The 2024- 25 Military Friendly Schools list will be published in the May and October issues of G.I. Jobs magazine and can be found at militaryfriendly.com.