Stockton University: A Warm Welcome for Veterans
Growing up in Pleasantville, Jose Morales always admired Stockton University. After serving a decade in the Army National Guard, he found a home there. “What really sealed the deal was how veteran-friendly the campus is,” he said. From his first visit, support and welcome were palpable.
Recently, U.S. Veterans Magazine recognized Stockton as a Top Veteran Friendly School. This award celebrates the university’s dedication to helping military veterans through its Military and Veterans Success Center (MVSC). Michael Barany, the MVSC director, expressed gratitude for the accolade. “This recognition reflects our ongoing commitment to supporting veterans,” he noted. The center aims to help veterans thrive in and out of the classroom.
Stockton is among just eight New Jersey colleges to receive this honor. It also stands out as a Gold Star Yellow Ribbon School, which assists with tuition costs for veterans.
Mona Lisa Faris, president of U.S. Veterans Magazine, emphasizes the value of this recognition. “Each year, we evaluate schools that go above and beyond in supporting veterans,” she said. The magazine’s evaluation uses surveys and independent research to identify the best resources for transitioning service members.
In a recent Military Friendly School survey for 2025-26, Stockton ranked No. 10 nationwide among small public schools. It also secured the No. 5 spot in the inaugural Military Spouse Friendly Survey.
Morales describes the MVSC as a critical support system. “They’ve connected me with resources I wouldn’t have found otherwise,” he shared. The center helps veterans find community and stay focused on their studies.
U.S. Veterans Magazine focuses on offering resources that support veterans’ civic transitions and everyday life, covering topics like career, education, finance, and health.
Upcoming Veterans Day Events at Stockton University
To honor Veterans Day, the MVSC at Stockton is holding several free events:
- Veterans Day Concert: Enjoy patriotic music at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 8, at the Performing Arts Center. Reservations are needed.
- Faces of Stockton’s Military Community: A photo project runs from Nov. 10-14, showcasing military-affiliated students and staff.
- Veterans Day Ceremony: Join a recognition ceremony at 11 a.m. on Nov. 10, featuring speeches from MVSC representatives and a keynote address by a veteran from the New Jersey American Legion.
- Panel Discussion: “Life in Service: Stories, Challenges and Triumphs” at 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 12, featuring personal experiences from student veterans.
- Military Gear Review: On Nov. 12-13, learn about military gear from veterans and student staff.
- MRE Tasting: Sample Meals Ready to Eat from 12:30 to 2 p.m. on Nov. 13, while listening to stories from military-affiliated students.
- Ruck March: Participate in this military tradition at 7 a.m. on Nov. 14, engaging with student veterans along the way.
- Film Screening: Watch “Warfare,” a portrayal of a Navy SEAL mission, from 12 to 2 p.m. on Nov. 14.
Stockton’s dedication to veterans is clear. The support from their community makes a significant difference in the lives of many who have served. For additional resources, you can explore the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Through recognition and support, Stockton University is making strides to ensure veterans feel at home and are equipped for success.
