Liberty recognized as Guard-Friendly School by Virginia National Guard Association

During the Virginia National Guard Conference held on Sept. 18, in Norfolk, Va., Liberty University was named a Guard Friendly School by the Virginia National Guard Association (VNGA).

Of the 159 schools eligible, Liberty was one of the first to receive this inaugural designation during the conference.

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

Developed by the VNGA, the Guard Friendly School standards recognize colleges, 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. Retired U.S. Army First Sergeant and Assistant Director for Military Education Development, Ron Ramsdell, attended the conference in Norfolk to accept the award on behalf of Liberty.

“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 multiple scholarships and financial grants awarded to qualifying military students, Liberty offers a robust benefits package to military students which 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 was required to demonstrate compliance with State and Federal Tuition Assistance Program requirements which included participation in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Principles of Excellence program, the Yellow Ribbon Program, and providing written policies that protect the enrollment status and academic standing of Virginia National Guard Soldiers and Airmen mobilized to Federal or State Active Duty.