Story originally published by UGA Student Affairs, written by Jon Segars

The UGA Student Veteran Resource Center (SVRC) hosted its 13th annual Honor Cord and Scholarship Ceremony on April 28, 2026, where UGA President Jere W. Morehead presented graduates with military honor cords and donors provided scholarships to help bridge veterans’ education benefit gaps. This year, honor cords were funded by the Hampton Roads Chapter of the UGA Alumni Association.

For many veterans, earning a degree means balancing coursework with work, family responsibilities, or the transition from military to civilian life. Flexible learning options and dedicated support services can help make that path more manageable.

At the University of Georgia, a growing number of veterans are finding ways to continue their education while managing the demands of everyday life. During the 2026 calendar year, 122 student veterans will earn a UGA degree, marking the largest graduating class since the creation of the Student Veteran Resource Center in 2013.

The milestone comes as UGA’s total veteran student population continues to grow. This academic year was the first in which the university’s veteran population exceeded 400 students, with continued growth expected among students studying at UGA’s extended campuses and through online programs.

For veterans whose military service may have taken them across the country or around the world, online degree programs can provide access to a UGA education regardless of location. The flexibility of online learning allows students to continue advancing their careers and supporting their families while pursuing a graduate degree. Students learn from the same UGA faculty who teach on campus, completing coursework on a schedule that fits their professional and personal commitments.

Support systems also play an important role in student success. The UGA Student Veteran Resource Center helps veterans and service members navigate the transition to higher education by connecting them with resources, academic support, career readiness services, and community-building opportunities.

The university’s commitment to veteran success extends beyond student services. During the 2026 academic year, donors contributed more than $387,000 in scholarship support through the SVRC, while UGA colleges and schools provided an additional $100,000 directly to student veterans.

Those scholarships help address a significant need. According to the SVRC, 31% of UGA’s student veterans do not receive education benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and another 10% receive only partial benefits.

“Many of these veterans gave up a full-time job in the military and forfeited a good salary and medical benefits in exchange for an opportunity to earn a degree,” said Jon Segars, director of the Student Veteran Resource Center. “In the long run, they will be highly successful in a new career, and it is our mission to help get them to that point.”

Veterans interested in continuing their education can explore UGA Online’s graduate programs while taking advantage of the support services available through the Student Veteran Resource Center.

Read more about the 13th annual Honor Cord and Scholarship Ceremony.