US Veterans Magazine identifies colleges throughout the country that provide the best support for military-connected students and their families.
Front Range Community College has been named a Top Veteran School for 2026 in US Veterans Magazine’s annual evaluation of colleges around the country. The recognition acknowledges FRCC’s continued dedication and commitment to supporting veterans, military-connected students, and their educational success.
“FRCC serves as a model of sustained, institution-wide commitment to those who have served our country,” said President Colleen Simpson, EdD. “Our institution not only welcomes military-connected students, but equips them with the tools, support and opportunities to achieve their goals and transition successfully into civilian careers. We are committed to helping more veterans and active-duty military secure rewarding careers and position themselves for successful futures.”
What FRCC Gets Right
The college’s Military and Veterans Services team provides specialized services and support that are tailored to meet military-connected students’ unique experiences and challenges.
The college demonstrates a measurable and sustained impact by creating clear, supportive pathways for veterans, service members and their families to succeed in higher education and beyond. FRCC’s commitment and efforts lead to meaningful long-term benefits for the military community—including active duty, National Guard, veterans and their dependents.
Each of FRCC’s three campuses has a dedicated Veteran Success Coach to assist veterans with their transition to college, both academically and socially. Each campus also has dedicated School Certifying Officials (SCOs) to ensure that veterans’ benefits are properly awarded in a timely manner.
“Our college’s Military & Veteran Services staff—and all faculty and employees—demonstrate deeply rooted dedication to supporting our military-connected students and their dependents,” Simpson added.
Read FRCC’s feature in US Veterans Magazine.
Familiar Guides for Veterans
FRCC’s Veteran Success Coaches are themselves veterans, which gives them firsthand insight into the cultural, academic and personal adjustments that can accompany the transition to college. Their role extends beyond answering questions. Coaches proactively check in throughout the semester, connect students with veteran peers and campus activities, and coordinate referrals when additional assistance is needed.
This individualized approach is bolstered by a collegewide network of support. School Certifying Officials assist with VA education benefits and the Veterans Readiness and Employment program, while academic advisors help students plan their path around work and military obligations. FRCC also evaluates Joint Services Transcripts and Community College of the Air Force records to ensure that applicable military training and experience can count toward a credential, potentially reducing the time and cost required to graduate.
The college recognizes that military-connected education extends beyond the veteran. At FRCC, spouses and dependents receive guidance on benefits they are eligible for, campus and career resources, as well as scholarships. Veteran and military-dependent work-study students also provide peer guidance, giving newcomers an early connection with someone who understands their experience.
Career Connections
FRCC’s Military & Veteran Services team assists approximately 1,000 students each year, including those preparing for careers in health care, advanced manufacturing, information technology, skilled trades and public service.
The college’s Career Services team helps students:
- Translate military responsibilities and accomplishments into language civilian employers understand.
- Prepare for interviews.
- Connect with internships, apprenticeships, workforce centers, veteran employment specialists and regional employers.
For President Simpson, success goes beyond getting students through the college doors.
“Our goal is not simply to help veterans enroll,” she said. “It is to help them complete a credential, build on the skills developed through service, and move with confidence into their next chapter.”
A Deep Dive Into Service
Each year, US Veterans Magazine conducts a national evaluation to identify the organizations and institutions that go above and beyond in supporting veterans and transitioning service members. Their lists serve as a trusted resource for those navigating their next steps—whether in the classroom or the workforce.
The magazine dives deep into each submission and supplements its findings with public records, interviews, reader feedback, press coverage and presence at veteran-focused conferences and events. This evaluation analyzes each institution’s long-term commitment, measurable impact and how veterans are being supported at every level.
See US Veterans Magazine’s list of Top Veteran Schools here.
About Front Range Community College
FRCC is Colorado’s largest community college, serving more than 28,000 students each year. With courses offered at multiple locations, online and through our high school concurrent enrollment programs, at FRCC, learners can choose from more than 200 degrees and certificates in a wide variety of fields. For more information, visit frontrange.edu.
The college’s strategic plan, Forward, Together, focuses on five strategic priorities: Learning Without Limits, Success for Every Learner, Vibrant Culture, College Excellence and Transformational Partnerships.
FRCC is proud to be part of the Colorado Community College System, advancing educational access and workforce development across the state.
