UIndy’s Commitment to Military-Affiliated Students Earns Purple Star Recognition

The University of Indianapolis has been recognized as a Tier 3 Collegiate Purple Star of Indiana institution, acknowledging its commitment to supporting military affiliated students.

The program is run by the Indiana Commission for Higher Education. First awarded in 2025, the designation evaluates schools on 37 standards across eight areas, including student engagement, institutional support systems and financial support.

“The program is in just its second year, so it’s a major achievement,” said Dr. Stephanie Wideman, department of communication chair, who serves alongside Dr. Ray Begovich as a student veteran faculty liaison. “It demonstrates that we are ahead of the game. We honor their military service through our commitment to education for service.” 

UIndy has rapidly expanded resources for military-connected students since receiving a Presidential Innovation Grant in 2025, which helped fund a pilot program. The initiative led to the reestablishment of UIndy’s chapter of the National Student Veterans Association, as well as the creation of new support services across campus. 

The university also celebrates military-connected graduates with military cords at commencement, hosts Veterans Day events and includes student veterans in ceremonial roles such as carrying the American and Indiana flags during university events.

“They appreciate being seen and being affirmed that their place is very secure here at UIndy and that they’re valued,” Wideman said. “It helps having people who understand the language and culture of the military on campus. You need support structures to translate those two worlds to each other.”

The university will continue to strengthen these support structures. The Department of Counseling is launching workshops designed to help students navigate the transition to campus life. A dedicated gathering space is scheduled to open this fall, providing military-connected students with a place to connect with peers, build community and maintain the camaraderie many experienced during military service.

UIndy is also a Yellow Ribbon School, participating in a U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs program that helps eligible veterans and military-connected students cover tuition and fees beyond the standard Post-9/11 GI Bill benefit.