UWF again recognized as a Gold-level Military Friendly® School and Military Spouse Friendly® School

The University of West Florida has been recognized as a gold-level university in the large public school category in the annual Military Friendly® Schools list for 2026-2027. UWF earned the gold distinction for success in helping veterans make the transition from the military to school and, ultimately, rewarding civilian careers. As the eighth time receiving this designation, UWF displays a consistent dedication to military students. The University was also designated as a Military Spouse Friendly® School.

"At the University of West Florida, we take pride in achieving this distinction each and every year," said UWF President Manny Diaz Jr. "Our military students and families are the foundation of the University, and we are proud to serve them. Our hope is to continue pursuing this excellence, giving our military students the best education and support that allows them to excel in their careers."

Institutions earning the Military Friendly® School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. Methodology, criteria and weightings were determined by Viqtory with input from the Military Friendly® Advisory Council of independent leaders in the higher education and military recruitment community. Final ratings were determined by combining the institution's survey scores with the assessment of the institution's ability to meet thresholds for student retention, graduation, job placement, loan repayment, persistence (degree advancement or transfer) and loan default rates for all students and, specifically, for student veterans.

Last August, UWF launched the newly formed Office of Military Services. This office allows for the University to streamline support for military affiliated students by uniting the University's Army and Air Force ROTC programs and the Military and Veteran Resource Center under the Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz Center for Leadership.

Lori Milkeris, director of the UWF Military & Veterans Resource Center, is proud to work at an institution that remains deeply committed to serving military members and their families.

"As an Air Force veteran, I feel especially fortunate to continue serving in this capacity, and I truly appreciate the dedication and support of our faculty and staff at UWF who share this commitment," Milkeris said. "Being recognized as Military Friendly for another year is not something we specifically plan for - we simply remain focused on doing our work well, and the designation is a reflection of that commitment. Being part of a team that genuinely cares about strengthening our community as a whole is incredibly meaningful. When a veteran or their family member earns a degree, they are not only investing in their own future - they become a stronger asset to their community and a powerful example of resilience, leadership and service."

To view the full rankings, visit militaryfriendly.com. For more information about the Military and Veterans Resource Center, visit uwf.edu/mvrc.