FARMINGTON – San Juan College was recently recognized for the fifth consecutive year as one of the top “Military Friendly Schools” for 2021-22 by the Military Friendly Schools and Employers at militaryfriendly.com.

According to a news release from SJC, Military Friendly ratings have “set the standard for companies and colleges demonstrating positive employment and education outcomes for veterans and their families.”

SJC features a special resource center for veterans on campus.

“We are honored to be named a Military Friendly School for a fifth year in a row,” David Drake, Veteran Center coordinator, said Monday. “Having this distinction demonstrates to our veterans and their families, that we are committed to serve their specific needs and assist them throughout their education journey.”

According to the release, the Veteran Center provides veterans with transitional assistance to promote “goal achievement” through an educational experience that will encourage student veterans to become “competitive, adaptable and successful in an ever-changing civilian environment.”

All of the staff members at the center are veterans, and offer a “guided” experience so student veterans can take advantage of benefits they are able to receive.

“At the center, we can help veterans, their spouses and dependents with everything from applying and registering for classes to assisting with the financial aid and GI Bill processes,” said Boomer Appleman, vice president for Student Services.

The center also provides outreach education opportunities for civilian students to “better understand veterans.”

mmitchell@durangoherald.com