EFSC Named a 'Collegiate Purple Star Campus'

Eastern Florida State College recently earned designation as a Collegiate Purple Star Campus from the Florida Department of Education.

Established by the Florida State Legislature and signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis in June of 2023, the Collegiate Purple Star Campus program recognizes postsecondary sites that have demonstrated a significant commitment to supporting military students and families as they transition to the college environment.

“Congratulations to Eastern Florida State College,” said Kathryn Hebda, Florida College System Chancellor, in the letter announcing the designation. “I am pleased to commend you for the services you provide at all sites to all active military and veteran students and their families.”

Ensuring the success of EFSC's military students and their families has always been a top priority for College President Dr. Jim Richey. Shortly after being named President of the College, he officially created the “Military and Veterans Service Center” with the primary objective to provide the special assistance and services these students need to complement their incredible skillsets and meet the unique educational and personal needs of these special students.

Annually, the center now helps more than 1,300 students who are either active military, military veterans, or family members receive the critical support they need to be successful in college and get them the certifications or degrees they will need to successfully compete in today’s civilian workforce.

The assistance includes a host of services, such as providing academic advising, assisting with course scheduling, helping students apply and qualify for veteran-specific financial aid and VA benefits, offering veteran work-study opportunities, providing mentoring and support services, and promoting social networking on college campuses through student clubs like the Collegiate Veterans Society.

Not only does the Purple Star Campus designation affirm the College’s dedication to local military and veteran students and their families, but it also enhances EFSC’s reputation as a military-friendly institution and can help attract more military-connected students seeking supportive educational environments, resulting in bringing more outstanding men and women to Florida’s Space Coast to help meet the critical workforce needs our top employers are looking for.

“This honor is a reflection of the commitment our college has made to addressing the unique challenges faced by military families,” said Dr. Richey. “I am immensely proud of our entire Military and Veterans Services team for their dedication to serving those who have served and are serving our nation with honor and helping our military heroes and their families attain the successful careers they so richly deserve.”

For more information about EFSC’s military and veteran services, visit easternflorida.edu/military-veterans/.

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