Purdue Fort Wayne earns 2026–27 Military Friendly School designation

Purdue University Fort Wayne announced today that it has earned the 2026–27 Military Friendly Schools Designation recognized as a Gold Level School.

Institutions earning the designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. Over 3,200 companies participated in the survey.

Methodology, criteria, and weightings were determined by Military Friendly, in consultation with its advisory council, a group of independent leaders in the military community. Final ratings were determined by combining an organization’s survey score, public data, and an assessment of the institution’s ability to meet and exceed thresholds for student recruitment, retention, academic progress, graduation rates, career placement, and support services for veterans, transitioning service members, and military spouses.

Purdue Fort Wayne’s Center for Veteran and Military Student Success is dedicated to supporting the unique needs of military-connected students and helping them thrive academically and personally. Each year, more than 350 students utilize military education benefits at PFW, while many others—veterans, active-duty service members, and military family members—are supported through the center even if they are not using those benefits. The center’s staff is committed to providing comprehensive support, including assistance with navigating VA education benefits, academic and career guidance, and connections to campus and community resources, ensuring every military-connected student has the tools and support needed to succeed.

“Purdue Fort Wayne and its Center for Veteran and Military Student Success have consistently been a strong network of support and resources for me throughout my time as a student,” said Jamie Ewell, a senior electrical engineering major. “When I transitioned from the military to being a full-time student, the process of getting my benefits processed and starting classes could not have been easier. In addition, the center provides a great space to study, complete homework, and connect with other veterans. As a National Guardsman, the Office of Student Care and Conduct has also been incredibly helpful in facilitating communication about military-related absences between my instructors and me. No matter what I’ve been going through, I have always had someone here to support me.”

“At Purdue University Fort Wayne, we are deeply committed to supporting those who have served and continue to serve our country,” said Krissy Surface, vice chancellor for enrollment management and the student experience. “Earning Gold-level Military Friendly recognition reflects the intentional work we are doing to ensure military-connected students feel welcomed, supported, and positioned for success—from their first interaction with us through graduation and beyond. We are proud to provide an environment that honors their service while helping them achieve their academic and career goals.”

“Earning the Military Friendly designation is more than a badge of honor; it is a reflection of an institution’s deep-rooted values and strategic commitment to those who served,” said Kayla Lopez, vice president of memberships, Military Friendly. “These schools don’t just open doors for veterans and military spouses, they build sustainable pathways for academic success and long-term impact. Their support is transformative, proving that investing in military-connected students is both a moral imperative and a standard for educational excellence.”

Purdue Fort Wayne will be showcased in the 2026–27 Guide to Military Friendly Schools in the April issue of G.I. Jobs magazine and on MilitaryFriendly.com.