NE North Dakota News

The University of North Dakota (UND) has received Gold recognition as a 2025-26 Military Friendly School, placing it among the top 10% of institutions nationwide for its efforts to support military service members, veterans, and their families.

The university was also named a Top 10 Military Spouse Friendly School, earning Gold status in that category as well. According to MilitaryFriendly.com, Top 10 schools are described as “the guidon bearers for military/veteran programs and initiatives. They set the standard for other designations and are programs that continue to improve every year.”

More than 1,800 schools participated in the 2025-2026 Military Friendly survey, and 830 received special awards for exceeding the standard. The designation was determined using public data sources and survey responses.

“I am extremely proud that UND has earned these important recognitions, especially our advancement from Silver to Gold this year,” said UND President Andy Armacost. “This reflects the strength of our support for the military-connected community, and it is evident in the 2,001 currently enrolled military-affiliated students, the highest number ever recorded.

“Consistent with our UND core values, we take great pride in fostering a campus community that understands the importance of supporting our military students and family members as they pursue their goals and continue their legacy of service and leadership,” Armacost continued. “Many thanks to all at UND who make this support happen.”

UND has been recognized as a top Military Friendly school for over 15 years. Angie Carpenter, director of Veteran & Military Affairs for UND, noted that the Gold award this year is especially meaningful. Carpenter said, “There are so many things we’ve added, as we’ve kept enhancing our Veteran/Military services on campus.”

She cited the addition of Military Affiliated Peer Support (MAPS) students, who assist their fellow military-affiliated students, especially with onboarding. “Our MAPS students reach out and make phone calls to all new military-affiliated students – just asking, ‘How’s the transition going? What can we help you with? Any questions that you might have?’ ”

Carpenter also mentioned the Military 101 development sessions now offered to UND faculty and staff. These sessions are designed to help individuals understand the university’s military-affiliated student population, their transition experiences, and the policies in place to serve those who have served or are serving in the military.

Carpenter explained that UND’s commitment to military-affiliated students dates back to the university’s founding. The original act establishing the university in 1883 required military instruction for all male students. Col. Homer B. Sprague, a former Union Army officer, served as UND’s second president, and the current Army ROTC Battalion traces its origins to his tenure.

Carpenter leads a team trained in federal compliance and school certifying requirements, focused on maximizing tuition and Veterans Affairs education benefits, advising, advocacy, and building a supportive community.