For the fourth straight year, Austin Community College District (ACC) earned the Gold Veterans Education Excellence Recognition Award (VEERA) from the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC), the highest level of recognition for colleges and universities supporting veterans and military-connected students.
The award recognizes institutions that provide education, resources, and support services to help veterans and their families succeed in higher education.
ACC’s Veterans Resource Center (VRC), located at the Highland Campus, serves as a hub for military-affiliated students. Since opening in 2015, the VRC has offered:
- Academic advising and assistance navigating college
- Financial aid and veterans education benefits support
- Connections to campus and community resources
- Emotional and personal support
- Outreach and programs focused on veteran and military-connected student success
The Veterans Education Excellence Recognition Award was established by the Texas Legislature to acknowledge colleges and universities that provide outstanding education and support services to veterans. Institutions may be recognized at Gold, Silver, or Bronze levels based on the depth of services they provide.
“Colleges and universities across Texas offer world-class resources and educational support to the brave men and women who served in our nation’s military,” said Governor Greg Abbott. “I thank these institutions for the services they provide student veterans and veterans’ children as they pursue opportunities in higher education. Texans are forever indebted to our veterans and their families. Texas will always honor their service so they can thrive in the greatest state in the greatest country in the history of the world.”
“Education is a pathway to personal well-being and improving quality of life,” said TVC Chairwoman and Navy veteran Laura Koerner. “These colleges and universities help ensure our veterans and their dependents receive the quality education they have earned in an environment that fosters their academic success. Congratulations to these schools and thank you for providing outstanding higher education opportunities.”
For more information about veteran services at ACC, visit austincc.edu/veteran.