Veterans Alliance

The annual Veterans Day pinning ceremony recognizes members of the University community and their families from all branches of the US Armed Forces, with “Veteran Rocky” pins handed out in honor of their service.

Helping military veterans transition to higher education is a particular strength of the University of Rochester, which is currently 10th on the US News & World Report rankings of “Best Colleges for Veterans.” Six students share their story.

Rochester is currently ranked 13th by US News and World Report in its list of best colleges for veterans. As Veterans Day approaches, six University students from each of the branches of the armed services share their stories of moving from the military to the classroom.

Created in 2013, the group is open to all students, faculty, staff, and alumni who are active duty military or veterans, and provides events and resources throughout the year. This Veterans Day weekend, the group will host the annual Military Appreciation Football Game.

University Vice President Paul Burgett, left, and Associate Vice President for Human Resources Tony Kinslow hand out "Veteran Rocky" pins at an ceremony in recognition of all faculty and staff who have served in the United States armed forces. (University photo / J. Adam Fenster)

Bryan Yates ’13 was working on his undergraduate degree at the College when he received news that a high school friend was killed while serving in Afghanistan. Yates is just one of the many University students and staff who have served in the armed forces, and on Veterans Day we honor and thank them for their service.

The annual Veterans Day Joint Service Run and a pinning ceremony are among the events honoring those who have served.

University veterans were recognized for their military service and pinned with a new “Veteran Rocky” lapel pin at an event marking the launch of a new online resource.

Many veteran students and their families face unique challenges when navigating both the educational and governmental systems. The University's Veterans Alliance and Veteran and Military Family Services Office work to provide the support that veteran students, staff, faculty, and families need.