Aug. 23, 2009 – College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd. in Glen Ellyn, was included in the 2010 list of “Military Friendly Schools” compiled by G.I. Jobs, a veteran-owned publication focusing on post-military education and employment. Only 15 percent of colleges, universities and trade schools nationwide receive this designation.
The Military Friendly list honors educational institutions that embrace America’s veterans as students and provide other benefits such as on-campus veterans programs, credit for service and military spouse programs.
With an average enrollment of 30,000 students per year, College of DuPage is the third-largest single-campus community college in the nation and is the second-largest provider of higher education in Illinois. The College recognizes a number of tuition-based veteran education bills, including the Montgomery G.I. Bill for Active Duty, Survivors and Dependent Educational Assistance Program, and the Reserve Educational Assistance Program.
The College also accepts the recently-enacted Post-9/11 G.I. Bill, which provides a maximum benefit of free tuition, a monthly housing allowance and a yearly book and supply stipend of up to $1,000 for qualifying veterans.
College of DuPage President Robert L. Breuder cited the institution’s inclusion on the list as testament to the College’s strong program offerings for veterans and overall dedication to strengthening the local workforce.
“We are proud to be among only a select few community colleges in the area to receive this designation,” he said. “The College believes in meeting the needs of a diverse student population. It is an honor to be recognized for ensuring the availability of these programs for the women and men who serve in our armed forces.”
In addition to the many certificate and degree programs available to veterans, the College is developing a new curriculum to meet the needs of service men and women returning from active duty. Last spring, College leaders announced the development of a Veterans Counseling Certificate and Degree program. The federally-supported program will be available to professional-level counselors, College faculty and, ultimately, qualified nationwide online students, to provide assistance to returning veterans as they transition back to civilian life.
The College’s Veteran’s Association offers additional services through regularly-scheduled guest speakers and a free annual Veterans Benefits Fair to help link returning service men and women with local service providers.