
In the annual Top Military-Friendly Colleges and Universities issue, Military Advanced Education magazine ranked Kaplan University in the top 20. Here is why:
“The recognition is nice,” commented Robert Smith, Military Solutions Manager and US Marine Corps veteran, “however, there is no way to properly thank these students for their service.” If you have comments or suggestions on how Kaplan University can further expand our support of military students please email military@kaplan.edu.
The Department of Defense (DOD) Worldwide Education Symposium is a key element in Kaplan University’s ongoing commitment to stay at the forefront of military educational issues and continue to establish Kaplan University as one of the top military-friendly schools in the country. This year’s theme was “Educating America’s Patriots.”
Kaplan University hosted a “cruise” theme reception to thank the educational counselors with whom we partner to ensure our nation’s military have the opportunity to meet their career and educational goals.
“Kaplan University has worked very hard to become a military-friendly school and we wanted to get that message out during DOD Worldwide,” said Patrick Milligan, Executive Director of Military Admissions. “The Kaplan University team provided information kits to the attendees and spoke with hundreds of military representatives at our information booth. We also participated in all the symposium sessions, discussing military education issues. After all that, we invited everyone to take part in a little R&R,” he added.
Nearly 500 guests lined up outside a banquet room in the Marriott Marquis in downtown Atlanta for a chance to come aboard the SSV Kaplan University Talent of the Seas.
“Once they walked in, we wanted them to feel as if they were really onboard a ship and not inside a conference room,” said Ashley Clark, Kaplan Higher Education Events Coordinator.
The cruise getaway included branded takeaway pictures on the “pier,” character artist sketches, and a branded beach towel as they debarked. Guests also enjoyed salsa lessons, a midnight buffet, chair massages, karaoke, dancing, and raffles.
Actors playing the ship’s crew—including a cruise director and captain—kept the crowd engaged and entertained.
The highlight of the night was a generous donation to troops in need.
In the casino aboard the ship, guests played with house money. At the end of the evening, their “winnings” were converted to $10,000 in real money and donated to the Wounded Warriors Project, a nonprofit organization that raises awareness and supports the needs of severely injured servicemen and women.
General Nick Halley, a Kaplan University faculty member, and Dr. Eric Hyde from Concord Law School made announcements throughout the evening as the donation grew.
“It was an honor to be able to host these individuals, most of whom are currently serving in our military. The University really came together in making a showing we can be proud of,” Patrick noted.