Texas A&M University was awarded as a Gold Recipient of the Texas Veterans Commission’s 2026 Veteran Education Excellence Recognition Award (VEERA). This is the sixth time the university has received this honor, which recognizes colleges and universities in the state of Texas that provide excellence in education and services to student veterans.
The Don and Ellie Knauss Veteran Resource and Support Center (VRSC) is at the core of support at Texas A&M, serving more than 1,600 veteran and military students across the main College Station campus and 12 branch campuses and sites. During the 2025-26 academic year, the VRSC administered $685,298 in scholarships, financial aid and childcare assistance, easing major barriers to degree completion.
The VRSC also provides comprehensive services including career advising, peer leadership opportunities, academic support and more. Integrated into this network of support are mental health and well-being initiatives that build community and contribute to overall student success.
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“Texas A&M University takes pride in our students who have chosen to serve in the United States Armed Forces,” said VRSC Director Lt. Col. John Fleming ’94, USMC (Ret.). “Our veterans and those currently serving in the National Guard, Reserve components and on Active Duty embody selfless service, and it is our honor to support them through every step of their higher education journey.”
Evolving to meet the needs of students, the VRSC has modernized its facilities and services in response to feedback from the veteran and military community at Texas A&M. In fall 2026, a dedicated study space was opened for veteran and military students, expanding academic support services. In addition, the center created a priority borrowing system for digital course materials, in collaboration with Texas A&M University Libraries.
On- and off-campus partners of the VRSC include Military Admissions, Aggie One Stop, University Health Services, Scholarships and Financial Aid, the Brazos County Veteran Services Office and the Texas A&M Foundation. Together, the VRSC and Texas A&M continue to stand with those who serve in the nation’s military, ensuring that veteran and military students have the resources to thrive both inside and outside the classroom.
Established in 2021, VEERA is administered by the Texas Veterans Commission and is awarded to higher education institutions that meet criteria such as offering student organizations, academic support, mental health and disability services and housing policies for veterans. Colleges and universities are designated at the Gold, Silver or Bronze level.
