The W. A. Franke College of Business (FCB) was once again ranked among the top in the nation for serving veterans in higher education. FCB was ranked 10th in Military Times’ Best for Vets: Business Schools 2016.
“We’re very happy to be recognized for our work with our veteran students,” said Craig Van Slyke, dean of The W. A. Franke College of Business. “Serving those who served our country is a moral obligation that the College of Business faculty and staff take very seriously.”
Military Times had 180 colleges and universities participate in their rigorous Best for Vets: Colleges survey this year, and only accepted the survey from institutions that offer graduate-level business degrees. The results were released in February 2016.
“Achieving top rankings is getting more competitive. This is a good thing as it shows more colleges across the nation are recognizing the importance of supporting our veterans as they transition from the military to higher education,” said Laurie Jordon, program manager for the FCB’s Veteran Student Center. “We recognize the experience, leadership skills, and drive that these students bring to the classroom and to businesses. We will continue to create programs that support and maximize their success.”
One such program is the newly-created Veteran and Military MBA Leadership program. Kaila Sparkman, a U.S. Marine veteran and MBA student in the program, said she chose NAU for several reasons. “I love having a veteran rep, Laurie Jordon, in our college who is always willing and able to help with our needs. Being able to participate in the Veteran Military Leadership Program was an added bonus.”
Sparkman is also looking forward to meeting with her forensic accounting mentor and to her expense-paid executive job shadow experience as part of the program. “Overall, the FCB is just a great place for veterans to succeed,” she said
Andrew Brooks is a former U.S. Marine and is seeking an undergraduate degree as a dual major in finance and management. He was drawn to NAU because of the four seasons, the small town feel, and more. “The FCB has faculty with decades of experience from the most successful companies in the world. Class sizes are small and your ability to get one-on-one instructor education is priceless.”