Making military students feel at home

The University of Northern Iowa is committed to serving the unique needs of military students, veterans and their families as they adjust to college life. In fact, UNI has been designated three times as a Military Friendly School by G.I. Jobs Magazine, placing it among the top 20 percent of the nation’s colleges, universities and trade schools receiving this honor.

"To be recognized as an institution that embraces military students and works to ensure their success is significant," says Leslie Williams, dean of students at UNI. "We all benefit from the experiences these students bring to our campuses."

UNI recently hired a Military & Veteran Student Services Coordinator, Julia Heuer, to support and advocate for the nearly 270 UNI students receiving GI Bill benefits. Heuer also works with outside agencies to bring resources to campus, including Iowa Workforce Development and the Cedar Rapids Veterans Center, which provides weekly counseling at UNI's Military and Veteran Students Center.

Finally, UNI hosts an annual Military and Veterans Services Conference to educate students, faculty and the community about the military culture and how to help veteran students succeed as they transition to civilian life. This year’s conference will be held Sept. 23.

Eric Benson, student veteran, speaks at the Veterans Day Flag Ceremony held on Nov. 9.

Upcoming Events

UNI Veterans Association is hosting a Cedar Valley nature trail bike ride on May 18 and a day hike on June 15.  Visit the UNI Military and Veteran Student Services website for more details.