GARDNER, MA - March 31, 2026 - Mount Wachusett Community College (MWCC) has been recognized as a 2026-2027 Military Friendly® Silver School and a Military Spouse Friendly School, underscoring the college's continued commitment to supporting veterans, active-duty service members, and their families.

These designations, awarded by Military Friendly®, highlight institutions that demonstrate strong outcomes and effective programs for military-connected students. MWCC's recognition at the Silver level places it among top-performing small community colleges nationwide.

MWCC President James Vander Hooven noted, "We are proud to create an environment where veterans and military families feel supported as they pursue their educational and career goals."

The MWCC Veteran Services Department was established specifically to address the unique academic, financial, physical, and social needs of veterans transitioning from service member to student. Staff are committed to providing military service members, veterans, and their families with assistance and guidance throughout their academic career at MWCC.

"Mount Wachusett has a long tradition of being a Military Friendly® institution. This requires a commitment from all departments and personnel to learn about and support military-connected students in their pursuit of new opportunities. This commitment has been consistently demonstrated for over a decade," stated Robert Mayer, Director of Veterans Services. "It is a privilege to work at a community college that is so compassionate and supportive of our military-connected students."

MWCC serves dozens of veterans, veteran dependents, and military-connected students each year. The college provides academic credit for military experience, tailored career services, and a strong network of peer and community support to help veterans transition successfully to academic and civilian life.

The Military Friendly® Schools list is based on public data and proprietary surveys evaluating institutions on student retention, graduation, job placement, and support services specifically for military students and their families.

For more information about MWCC's veteran and military services, visit mwcc.edu/veteran-services.