U.S. Veterans Magazine has named the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga a 2025 Top Veteran-Friendly School, recognizing UTC’s campus-wide commitment to students with military ties.
The designation appears in the magazine’s winter 2025 issue, which highlights institutions demonstrating long-term investment and measurable impact in serving veterans, active-duty service members, reservists and their families.
“At UTC, everything we do is grounded in community and relationships,” said Sylvana Matthews, director of the Office of Veteran and Military Affairs (VMA). “Many of our military-connected students naturally become part of a peer support system, and dependents often bring a unique understanding that helps others feel more comfortable and welcomed. That familiarity can break down communication barriers and create a more profound sense of belonging.”
According to the publication, colleges are chosen through a national survey or independent review. Selection factors include a dedicated veteran support office, academic credit for military experience, tailored career guidance, peer-led community networks and an on-campus VA certifying official.
Military-connected students account for more than 15% of UTC’s enrollment, including veterans, active-duty personnel, National Guard and Reserve members, and spouses or dependents. Matthews said the Veteran and Military Affairs Student Ambassador Program provides mentorship, outreach and peer connection from day one.
UTC also offers academic credit for military experience, personalized advising and collaborations with partners such as Career Connections, the American Job Center and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
“Looking ahead, one of our biggest goals is to deepen the connection between our campus and the broader Chattanooga community,” Matthews said. “In veteran and military programming, it truly takes a village. That spirit of collaboration—bringing community resources to campus and inviting campus partners to engage more intentionally with military-connected students—is where we see real impact.”
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‘Go Mocs! Go Vets!’ UTC earns national honor for supporting military-connected students
