Southern Wesleyan University Earns Military Friendly® Gold Designation and Military Spouse Friendly® Award for 2025–2026
Jan 20, 2026 | Awards and recognitions | Military Appreciation
CENTRAL, S.C. — Southern Wesleyan University (SWU) has been recognized with both the Military Friendly® Gold designation and the Military Spouse Friendly® School Award for the 2025–2026 academic year. These honors highlight the university’s deep commitment to serving active-duty service members, veterans, and their families.
The recognition reflects the work of SWU’s Warriors CARE Center, which is the university’s primary hub for supporting military-affiliated students, helping them grow and thrive personally, academically, and professionally.
SWU currently serves 75 military-affiliated students, including two active-duty service members (one Navy, one National Guard), 23 veterans, four retirees, and 52 dependents, including military spouses and children.
“At SWU, we have a heart for those who have selflessly served our nation,” said Donna Pittman, Co-Director of the Warriors CARE Center. “Being both the daughter and spouse of veterans allows me to connect deeply with this unique population. Our goal is to build relationships with our students and provide a ‘safe haven’ for them. We want their college experience to be fulfilling—not just academically—but to help them graduate as well-grounded, career-ready individuals.”
“We believe we can enhance human flourishing with a strong emphasis on the spiritual pillar but also highlighting and coordinating services that address the academic, physical, social, and financial needs of veteran students,” said Rev. Michael Shannon, Chaplain and Co-Director of the Warriors CARE Center, and Lieutenant Colonel, Retired US Air Force.
“We envision our veteran students returning to the work force as leaders—spiritual leaders who flourish in love and allegiance to Jesus Christ and shape their families, churches, and workplace environments for the glory and fame of God.”
The Warriors CARE Center provides individualized assistance with VA education benefits, tutoring, academic and career counseling, and life skills workshops. Students also have access to a military student lounge and training/conference room, creating a supportive community that values service and personal growth.
Military and veteran students also find SWU’s online programs to be flexible, relevant, and affordable, designed to meet the unique demands of military life while preparing students for purposeful careers. Learn more at www.swu.edu/military-students/warriors-care-center.
The Military Friendly® Schools and Military Spouse Friendly® School Awards are presented annually by Military Friendly®, recognizing postsecondary institutions that go above and beyond in supporting the military community. Rankings are based on criteria such as academic credibility, flexibility, family support, career planning, and student success outcomes.
For more information and a full list of recognized schools, visit www.militaryfriendly.com.
About Southern Wesleyan University
Southern Wesleyan University is a Christ-centered, student-focused, faith-filled community that offers inventive learning experiences. The university endeavors to prepare its students to be dedicated scholars and servant-leaders who impact the world for Christ. For details about degree programs, go online to www.swu.edu
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