Brown University Sets New Standard for Graduate Student Veteran Support

Brown University is making significant strides to ensure military veterans are not just welcomed, but fully equipped for success in graduate education. Recent initiatives showcase an expanded commitment, removing barriers and fostering a supportive campus environment for those who have served.

Unlimited Tuition Support: Breaking Down Financial Barriers

Starting in the 2026-27 academic year, Brown will offer an unlimited match through the Yellow Ribbon Program for graduate student veterans. This bold move ensures that any tuition and fees not covered by the Post-9/11 G.I. Bill are fully funded by the university. No eligible veteran pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree at Brown will pay out-of-pocket for tuition, opening doors to a top-tier education regardless of financial background.

• All graduate student veterans can attend with no tuition expenses
• Ph.D. candidates benefit from full coverage for any funding gaps
• Reflects a decade of growth in veteran enrollment and commitment to inclusion

University-Wide Responsibility and Inclusive Culture

Brown’s support for veterans goes far beyond financial aid. The university’s leadership underscores that integrating veterans is a collective effort, involving outreach, admissions, and campus-wide support. Veterans are viewed as essential members of the community, valued for their leadership, resilience, and diverse perspectives.

• Veterans are integrated into all aspects of university life
• Initiatives like the Warrior-Scholar Project foster mentorship and campus engagement
• Veterans’ experiences enrich Brown’s academic and social fabric

Cisneros Veterans Scholars Program: Building Connections

Thanks to a transformative gift from the Gilbert and Jacki Cisneros Foundation, Brown’s peer-mentorship for veterans has expanded into the Cisneros Veterans Scholars Program. This program pairs incoming veterans with experienced peers, providing practical guidance and a sense of community as they transition from military to academic life.

• Mentorship supports academic, social, and career development
• Access to mental health resources and professional networks
• Enhanced leadership development and community involvement opportunities

Celebrating Service, Empowering Success

At Brown, the contributions of veterans are openly celebrated. Leaders such as Mac Manning, director of the Office of Military-Affiliated Students, emphasize that veterans are not only welcomed, they are essential to the university’s mission. The Open Curriculum philosophy extends to graduate studies, offering flexibility and inclusivity for all students.

Alumnus and Navy veteran Gilbert Cisneros highlights that supporting veterans’ education is about preparing them for future leadership and service. The Cisneros family’s involvement underscores the university’s belief in the transformative impact of veterans on campus and beyond.

Leading the Way in Veteran Support

With unlimited Yellow Ribbon funding and the robust Cisneros Veterans Scholars Program, Brown University is setting a benchmark for veteran support in higher education. These efforts eliminate financial obstacles, foster a vibrant campus community, and recognize the unique strengths veterans bring. Brown’s growing commitment ensures that veterans are empowered to succeed now and in the future.

Source: Brown University News