by Pete Rosenbery
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s tradition of providing a first-rate education to military service members and student veterans wherever they might be is continuing to earn national recognition.
In Military Times magazine’s 2024 “Best for Vets: Colleges” list, SIU Carbondale ranked third among colleges and universities in the Midwest, first in Illinois and 57th among 304 schools in the nation.
Paul S. Copeland, SIU Carbondale Veterans Services coordinator, said the annual rankings can serve as a barometer on how SIU Carbondale’s programs compare with other schools. SIU has consistently appeared in the rankings for more than a decade due to its long history of serving the military and veteran populations.
“I know my counterparts at the other Illinois public colleges and universities, and we all are dedicated to serving our military, military family members and veteran students,” Copeland said. “It’s nice to be recognized, but the most important thing is to understand that our students’ success is what drives our efforts and this recognition.”
Copeland said Military Times produces rankings based on evaluation of success metrics for all students, as well as military affiliated students, and the magazine asks universities to provide data about academic support, student services and post-graduation support for employment and alumni services.
“Speaking as an alumnus, a veteran and a staff member, I can affirm that this university has always been a great place for students of all backgrounds to pursue academic success,” he said. “Serving military connected students is just part of our DNA, which drives us to serve all students.”
Military Times reviews retention and graduation rates for all students, along with students with military ties. It also looks at offerings such as SIU’s Veterans Center, which provides access to study resources, socialization and quiet spaces, along with employees who share their military experience and provide peer support, Copeland said.
SIU Carbondale has 575 total active duty military and veteran students. SIU Extended Campus serves 365 of these students who are on active duty and veteran students taking courses online and/or at off-campus locations while using Veterans Affairs educational benefits, said Christina Lawrence, Extended Campus VA school certifying official.
“SIU is dedicated to supporting U.S. military members, veterans and their families with accessible, innovative online education designed to meet their unique needs,” Lawrence said. “We’re here to make their journey easier and more rewarding with flexible programs, practical resources and a supportive community. This honor is a recognition of how we work together to serve those who have served, offering high-quality education anytime, anywhere, so they can reach their goals and thrive.”
More information on the comprehensive programs offered by SIU Carbondale’s Veterans Services is available at veterans.siu.edu, by calling 618-453-1335 or email at vets@siu.edu.