University Of Findlay Receives Purple Star Designation

(From the University of Findlay)

The University of Findlay is the newest higher education partner in Ohio to receive a Collegiate Purple Star for its commitment to supporting students with military backgrounds.

Ohio Department of Higher Education Chancellor Mike Duffey announced the designation and noted that nine other colleges and universities in Ohio had their Collegiate Purple Star designation renewed this year. Schools must apply for renewal after three years.

“These colleges and universities have all done great work to support their military-connected students,” Chancellor Duffey said. “They recognize that these students may have different needs as they continue their education, and these campuses are committed to making sure the students have the necessary resources to reach their goals and pursue their dreams.”

“The University of Findlay values the service and sacrifice made by these men and women, and we are committed to doing what is necessary to ensure they are able to achieve their educational goals,” President Emeritus Katherine Fell, Ph.D., said.

Damon Osborne, Ph.D., director of academic services, serves as UF’s point of contact for all military-affiliated education benefits, and he is assisted by personnel from the business affairs and financial aid offices who monitor and certify enrollments.

“We partner with the Veterans Administration to provide the highest level of benefits possible for our military-affiliated students, including participating in the Yellow Ribbon program,” Osborne explained. “We support this project from the highest level – Dr. Fell was instrumental in encouraging us to apply for and receive this designation, and this support has been the key to achieving success.”

The University has dedicated space for military-affiliated Oiler students to gather and meet, as well as events to help them make connections, he noted.

UF also plans to expand beyond campus to area K to 12 schools with the Purple Star designation and “provide a pathway to higher education for families in our community,” Osborne added.

In 2022, Ohio became the first state in the nation to offer the Collegiate Purple Star designation when it was launched under the leadership of Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. The award builds upon the work of the Ohio Department of Education and Workforce to award Purple Star designations to preK-12 schools.

College and university designations are determined by a Collegiate Purple Star Advisory Committee, appointed by the chancellor and composed of members from organizations that include the Ohio Veterans Education Council, the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, the Ohio Adjutant General’s Department, and the Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission K-12 Purple Star Committee.

A total of 51 colleges and universities across Ohio currently have an active Collegiate Purple Star designation.