UC Riverside has once again won the designation of a military friendly school in recognition for the programs and services it offers to veterans and military-connected students.

UCR earned the No. 3 spot among participating tier 1 research institutions on a top 10 list released March 13 by Military Friendly, a program operated by VIQTORY, a Pittsburgh-based marketing firm founded by three Navy veterans that provides “Military Friendly Schools” and “Military Friendly Company” designations across the U.S. According to its website, the firm “measures an organization’s commitment, effort and success in creating sustainable and meaningful benefit for the military community.”  

Institutions earning the designation were assessed based on public data and responses from a survey they submitted. More than 1,800 institutions participated in the 2023-24 survey, according to Military Friendly.

VIQTORY also publishes G.I. Jobs magazine, which will include the list in its May and October issues.

UCR has ranked highly in previous years as well. 

Tamara Thacker, coordinator of the Veterans Resource Center at UCR, described the designation as a reflection of the increased programs, services, and support offered to military-connected students on campus. Last year, the center moved into a larger space at Costo Hall, providing students with opportunities for networking, career development, and camaraderie, she said.

“Our inclusive and diverse environment enables military-connected students to succeed in academia and seek meaningful ventures upon graduation,” she said. “We believe this environment is how we achieved the ranking of #3 Military Friendly Tier 1 Research Institution in the nation.”