ľ«¶«AV was recognized at the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus yesterday as one of the recipients of the prestigious “Excellence in Programming” Awards during the 2024 Military Connected Student Symposium. Presented by Ohio Department of Education Chancellor Mike Duffey on behalf of the Inter-University Council of Ohio (IUC) and the National Veterans Leadership Foundation (NVLF), this highly selective award recognizes institutions for their outstanding support of veterans and military-connected students. Each year, only two institutions of each type in Ohio receive this distinction, highlighting JCU’s deep commitment to serving those who have served.
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“This award is a reflection of the intentional work we’ve done to create a welcoming and supportive environment for our veteran students,” said John Paul Robinson, Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at JCU. “In just one year, we have built comprehensive programs that have made a measurable impact on retention and student success.”
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The award recognizes the exceptional contributions of Robinson and Toneo Gulley ’26, Coordinator for Veteran Student Services, whose efforts have significantly enhanced the campus experience for veterans and military-connected students. It also builds upon JCU’s 2024 designation as a Collegiate Purple Star campus by the Ohio Department of Education, a recognition of the University’s dedication to supporting students with military backgrounds.
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Over the past year, JCU has introduced several initiatives to ensure veteran students thrive academically, socially, and professionally, including:
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- Constructing a Veteran and Military-Connected Student Lounge in the D.J. Lombardo Student Center to provide a dedicated space for community-building and resources. Ěý
- Joining the Salute National Honor Society, which offers outstanding veteran students additional scholarship opportunities, academic recognition, and peer connections. Ěý
- Establishing a Veteran Graduation Recognition Ceremony, where graduating veterans are individually honored and presented with cords. Ěý
- Conducting an annual faculty and staff training on best practices for supporting veterans and military-connected students. Ěý
- Creating a veteran-specific meal plan, ensuring free access to on-campus dining for veteran students. Ěý
- Joining the Work-Study Allowance Program as a VA-approved work-study site, allowing veteran students to obtain campus jobs to help fund their education.
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“Our commitment to veteran and military-connected students goes beyond recognition—we are continuously working to enhance the student experience and ensure their success,” said Naomi Sigg, Vice President of Student Experience and Campus Belonging at JCU. “This award reaffirms that our efforts are making a real difference, and we will continue to build on this momentum.”
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Other institutions receiving the “Excellence in Programming” Award this year include Kent State University, Wright State University, Bowling Green State University & University of Toledo (joint award), Marion Technical College, Columbus State Community College, Ashland University, and Xavier University.