RVC Earns Best for Vets Designation

RVC Earns Best for Vets Designation

• Awards
• 12/08/2025

Rock Valley College was recently named to the Military Times' 2025 Best for Vets: College Rankings. This year's list includes 357 institutions, marking an increase from 304 in 2024. The growth underscores the expanding network of colleges prioritizing veteran success through targeted programs, financial support, and student-veteran communities.

"Being included in Military Times Best for Vets ranking validates that we are dedicated to our veterans and military-affiliated students, and it highlights the fact that we are a college where military-connected learners can thrive," remarked Milana Herman, RVC Program Manager, Student Employment and Veterans Affairs. "This particular ranking is especially notable because it uses data (student success, affordability, and the quality of support services) to determine if a school is meeting or exceeding in providing stellar services to its students."

RVC is committed to serving the educational and training needs of prospective and/or enrolled service members, veterans, their dependents, and/or survivors. These students typically start their journey at RVC with Herman. She helps them navigate the getting-started process and applying for benefits. Throughout their time at RVC, Herman remains a constant resource, leader, and supporter as the advisor for the Student Veterans Association.

"This recognition is a testament to the great work of Milana Herman, who is the college's program manager for veterans' affairs and the advisor for our Veteran Club," said Dr. Patrick Peyer, Vice President of Student Affairs.

To determine which colleges make the list, Military Times collects data from an extensive survey of colleges nationwide. Institutions are evaluated on academic quality, student support services, affordability, and outcomes for veterans, including graduation and retention rates.

Key trends from the 2025 survey include:

• Increased participation among public universities and community colleges, signaling broader institutional engagement.
• A surge in online and hybrid program options, which continue to support active-duty and Guard/Reserve students.
• Growth in dedicated veteran resource centers, peer mentorship networks and mental health services tailored to post-service transition.

"For 15 years, Best for Vets has helped transitioning service members find schools that not only welcome veterans but actively invest in their success," said Jon Simkins, Executive Editor of Military Times and Sightline Media Group. "The record-breaking participation this year shows that higher education leaders are listening and working to create environments where veterans can thrive academically and personally."

The full 2025 ranking, along with an interactive database of schools, can be found at bestforvets.militarytimes.com/colleges.

To learn more about Veterans Affairs at RVC, visit the Veterans page.

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