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WCC recognized for commitment to veterans and military-connected families

Washtenaw Community College campus, Ann Arbor, Michigan. Photo courtesy WCC.

submitted by Fran LeFort, Washtenaw Community College

Washtenaw Community College (WCC) has been named a Gold-level Veteran-Friendly School for the eighth consecutive year by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency. The program honors academic institutions committed to supporting veterans and military-connected students. WCC has again earned the highest Gold-level designation for the 2025–2026 school year.

“This recognition reflects the respect and gratitude we hold for our veteran students and their families,” said college president Dr. Rose B. Bellanca. “We’re proud to set a standard of excellence in creating an environment where veterans can thrive academically and personally—and reach their career goals.”

WCC also received the MVAA 2025–2026 School Education Innovator Award for hosting “Veterans Adventure League,” an innovative tabletop game designed to foster connection, promote mental wellness, and deliver strategies to address “some of the most urgent challenges facing the veteran population.”

“Our veterans went above and beyond in service to our country, and it an honor to serve and support them. We will continue to be creative in this commitment,” said Carol Osborne, manager of the college Wadhams Veterans Center.

WCC serves more than 500 military members and their families, including former and current active-duty military personnel, National Guard and Reserve members, and spouses and dependents of veterans.

WCC Wadhams Veterans Center, located at the heart of campus in the Student Center Building, is a hub of activity, assistance, and support for veterans. The center provides programs to help veterans access benefits and serves as a campus home to veterans, offering places to study and for fellowship. WCC also sponsors an active Student Veterans of America Club.

The Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency Veteran-Friendly Schools’ Gold-, Silver-, and Bronze-level recognitions are based on veteran-centric services and programs. Any academic institution or training facility in Michigan eligible to receive veteran education benefits can apply for the program. The Gold-level status is based on criteria such as veteran-specific career services, resources, advising, and/or outcome monitoring; maintaining an on-campus veterans coordinator; and a system to evaluate and award academic credit based on military training and experience.

by Marsha Chartrand

Marsha Johnson Chartrand, a founder, writer, and copy editor with the Manchester Mirror, is a 50-year resident of Manchester. She has a long history of volunteer and community involvement.