News from Ohio State University

Ohio State receives new Collegiate Purple Star designation

The Ohio State University’s support for veteran and military students is being recognized with the state’s new Collegiate Purple Star designation.

President Kristina M. Johnson joined leaders and representatives from 33 public and independent colleges in Ohio for an announcement of the honor.

Collegiate Purple Star logo“Congratulations to the 33 schools chosen as the first Collegiate Purple Star campuses! Thank you for being examples of Ohio’s proud tradition of honoring our service men and women,” said Gov. Mike DeWine. “With these Collegiate Purple Star Award designations, service members, veterans and military-connected students are able to pursue higher education knowing that their school has the necessary support system and guidance to help them find their next steps.”

The Collegiate Purple Star recognizes public and independent colleges and universities in Ohio that are supportive and inclusive of military-connected students.

“U.S. military service members and veterans make significant sacrifices to serve our country,” Johnson said. “We owe them not only a debt of gratitude, but sustained support in their pursuit of a higher education – especially since so many of them are the first in their families to do so.

“These students enhance diversity and bring unique skillsets and viewpoints to campuses and classrooms, and yet are significantly underrepresented there. Ohio State is committed to providing the services our military-connected students and their families need and deserve to succeed, and this designation recognizes that effort.”

Designations are determined by a Collegiate Purple Star Advisory Committee after evaluation and recommendation. Ohio created a similar designation for K-12 schools in 2017.

The advisory committee is appointed by the Ohio Department of Higher Education chancellor and composed of members from organizations that can include ODHE, the Ohio Veterans Education Council, the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, the Ohio Adjutant General’s Department and the Military Interstate Children’s Compact Commission K-12 Purple Star Committee.

Criteria for being chosen as a Purple Star college or university include having a dedicated military or veteran point of contact and/or office on campus, establishing priority registration for veterans and service members, surveying student veterans and service members – along with spouses and dependents – about needs and challenges, and allowing for the establishment of student-led groups and organizations for veterans and service members.

Ohio State continues to be ranked as one of the top universities serving veterans. The university’s Military and Veterans Services office acts as a single point of contact for the more than 2,100 military-connected students.  

Some of the office’s services include:

  • Managing the Department of Veterans Affairs certification and registration for all veterans’ education benefits to which student-veterans and dependents are entitled. 
  • Assisting students with accessing essential university services such as academic exploration and advising; student advocacy; counseling and consultation; and disability services. 
  • Connecting students with state and federal agencies that support military-connected students and their families.