July 9, 2021

The University of North Georgia (UNG) moved up to No. 17 in the 2021 Military Times "Best for Vets: Colleges" rankings. UNG is the No. 4 public university in the Southeast and is ranked second among the 11 University System of Georgia (USG) institutions included on the list.

"This ranking validates the efforts UNG is making to serve our veterans and military-connected students," Dr. Brett Morris, associate vice president of enrollment management, said. "The Military Times is well respected among veterans and their families, and we hope they will take note and consider UNG."

Emily Schwarck, a sophomore pursuing an Associate of Science in core curriculum with an engineering pathway through the Regents' Engineering Transfer Program, has seen firsthand how UNG helps veterans. After four years of active-duty Army service, she moved to Georgia to join the National Guard and pursue a degree.

Schwarck, a NEST student worker at UNG, appreciates the academic advising and financial aid counseling that reflect the experiences of veterans.

"Help was tailored to me as a veteran," she said. "UNG offers so much assistance to alleviate the stress that veterans face when they leave the service and come to school."

Dr. Darcy Hayes, director of Nighthawk Engagement and Student Transitions (NEST), said the Best for Vets honor brings attention to intentional efforts in recent years to beef up these services, led by NEST Assistant Director Christy Orr.

"Christy is an avid supporter and advocate for student veterans and their dependents and has worked hard to remove barriers to enrollment, retention, and graduation," Hayes said. "The veteran student workers in the Military Resource Center in Gainesville and Veterans Resource Center in Dahlonega also have worked tirelessly to connect with incoming student veterans and ease their transition to the university environment."

Orr said UNG has cross-trained nine staff members on how to help veterans and military-connected students. This allows these students to receive assistance more quickly.

"Our staff members already have the information the students need, or they have the background information to get them to the right person," Orr said.

Staff connect with veterans early

Another enhancement for veterans and students with families serving in the military has been a chance to connect with NEST staff as soon as these students are accepted.

UNG helps get military transcripts and benefits squared away before students arrive on campus.

"It's relieved a lot of their fears and concerns," Orr said. "We ease that load before they get here. They can focus on their academics instead of paperwork."

More than 300 schools participated in the latest "Best for Vets: Colleges" survey, which included some 70 questions seeking details about the school's costs, programs, policies and services that impact military-connected students. Federal data from the departments of Education, Veterans Affairs and Defense were also considered.

Veteran or military-connected students at UNG may call 706-864-1010 or email nest@ung.edu for assistance.