Drake State Community and Technical College was awarded the silver distinction as a 2023-2024 Military Friendly® school by VIQTORY. Drake State ranked within the top 40 percentile of the Top 10 schools in the nation. Drake State was previously recognized with a bronze distinction.

The silver status illustrates the college’s increasing commitment to meeting the demands of its veteran-dependent student body by exceeding benchmark standards for Military Friendly® Schools.

The Military Friendly® Schools list has come to set the standard for higher education institutions to provide the best opportunities for veterans and their spouses. This prestigious list provides a comprehensive guide for veterans and their families using data sources from federal agencies, veteran students, and proprietary survey information from participating organizations.

“Drake State Community and Technical College’s elevation to silver distinction as a Military Friendly® school is a testament to our unwavering dedication to serving our military-affiliated students,” said Drake State President Dr. Patricia Sims. “Ranking within the top 40 percentile of the nation’s top 10 schools reflects our commitment to surpassing benchmark standards and providing exceptional opportunities for veterans and their families. We value the contributions of our military-affiliated students, and our campus community thrives on their presence. We are deeply proud to receive this recognition and to stand as a beacon of support for those who have selflessly served their families and our nation.”

Drake State received 100 percent in all six Military Friendly Rating categories, including Academic Policies & Compliance, Admissions & Orientation, Culture & Commitment, Financial Aid & Assistance, Graduation & Career, and Military Student Support & Retention. While reaching this benchmark measure is phenomenal, Drake State exceeded these benchmark measures in every category by 21% to 59%.

“At Drake State, we understand the unique challenges that veterans and their families face when transitioning to higher education,” said Drake State Veterans Affairs Coordinator Neoka Hambrick. “This recognition is the starting point for our commitment to providing a seamless and enriching experience that goes beyond the norm. We take great pride in surpassing benchmark standards in every aspect of the Military Friendly Rating categories, from academics to support services. As the Veterans Affairs Coordinator, I am personally dedicated to ensuring that our military-affiliated students receive the utmost care, guidance, and resources they deserve. This accomplishment strengthens our resolve to continually enhance the lives of those who have dedicated themselves to serving our country.”

Institutions earning the Military Friendly® School designation were evaluated using both public data sources and responses from a proprietary survey. Over 1,800 schools participated in the 2023-2024 survey, with only 530 schools earning the designation for their leading practices, outcomes, and effective programs.

The Military Friendly® Schools survey is the longest-running, most comprehensive review of college and university investments in serving military and veteran students. To view the full 2023-2024 Military Friendly® Schools list please visit www.militaryfriendly.com.