Liberty University earns VNGA Guard Friendly School designation

Liberty University has been named a Guard Friendly School by the Virginia National Guard Association. Of the 159 schools eligible, Liberty University is one of the first to receive this inaugural designation during the Virginia National Guard Conference held Sept. 18, 2021, in Norfolk, Virginia.

Developed by the VNGA, the Guard Friendly School standards recognize college, universities and trade schools that meet or exceed 10 baseline criteria that create a supportive learning environment to assist members of the Virginia National Guard. Ron Ramsdell, retired U.S. Army First Sergeant and Director of Military Education Development, attended the conference in Norfolk, Va., to accept the award on behalf of Liberty University.

Maj. Andrew J. Czaplicki, VNGA president, awards Ron Ramsdell, retired U.S. Army First Sergeant and Liberty University’s Director of Military Education Development, with the Guard Friendly School designation during an awards ceremony Sept. 18, 2021, in Norfolk, Virginia.

“Liberty University is pleased to receive this Guard Friendly School designation,” said Ron Ramsdell. “Many of our students, faculty, and staff are serving or have served in the National Guard, and we are thankful for their dedication to serve our community and our nation. We consider it our honor and duty to support our military community as they continue to answer the call.”

Liberty University’s Office of Military Affairs is dedicated to serving those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces to ensure that service members, veterans or military dependents are given the most accurate and up-to-date information. In addition to several scholarships and financial grants awarded to qualifying military students, Liberty University offers a robust benefits package to military students. These benefits include a tuition discount, fees waiver, free evaluation of military training for transfer credits, remote assistance and regular newsletters regarding changes, updates and opportunities impacting military assistance.

In addition to showcasing military benefits, Liberty University was required to demonstrate compliance with State and Federal Tuition Assistance Program requirements; participation in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Excellence program; the Yellow Ribbon Program; and have written policies that protect the enrollment status and academic standing of Virginia National Guard Soldiers and Airmen mobilized to Federal or State Active Duty.

“Liberty’s Guard-friendly policies support students when mobilized on short-notice deployments are what makes this designation special,” said Andrew J. Czaplicki, VNGA President. “Liberty has made a deliberate effort to be flexible, accommodating and supportive of Virginia National Guard Soldiers and Airmen.”

Learn more about Liberty University’s Residential and Online programs, and the military student support and benefits offered to service members, veterans, and military spouses. Click here to request additional information.

Learn more about the Guard Friendly School program here. Interested college, university and trade school administrators may apply here or can download the application here.