Governor Greg Abbott has recognized 33 Texas public institutions of higher education for receiving the 2025 Veteran Education Excellence Recognition Award from the Texas Veterans Commission (TVC). The award, established by the Texas Legislature, honors universities and colleges that provide significant support to student veterans and military-connected students.
“Colleges and universities across Texas offer world-class resources and educational support to the brave men and women who served in our nation’s military,” said Governor Abbott. “I thank these institutions for their ongoing efforts to provide wide-ranging services for student veterans and veterans’ children as they pursue opportunities in higher education. Texans are forever indebted to our veterans and their families and will continue to support their success so they can thrive in the greatest state in the greatest country in the history of the world.”
TVC Chairwoman Laura Koerner, a Navy veteran, also commented on the importance of these efforts: “Education is key to a veteran’s personal well-being and long-term quality of life. These colleges and universities ensure our veterans and their dependents receive the quality education they have earned in an environment that cultivates their academic success. Congratulations and thank you to these schools for their topnotch higher education opportunities.”
The recognition is awarded at gold, silver, and bronze levels, highlighting various degrees of service provided by each institution. Among this year’s recipients are Angelo State University, Austin Community College, Dallas College, several campuses within Texas A&M University System, University of North Texas, The University of Texas at Arlington, San Jacinto College, Stephen F. Austin State University, Tarleton State University, Lee College, and others.
Institutions were evaluated based on multiple criteria such as having centralized locations for veteran students to seek assistance; designated staff contacts; U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs work-study programs; specialized admissions policies; orientation programs; academic support; mental health services; housing policies for veterans; faculty training on veteran issues; career services; as well as other measures deemed necessary by TVC.
All public colleges and universities in Texas are eligible to apply for this recognition if they offer substantial support services for student veterans or military-connected students.
The TVC advocates for improved quality of life for all Texas veterans through benefits assistance, funding direct service agencies supporting veterans’ needs, and administering Hazlewood Act education benefits.
