Palmetto Ridge Junior College has been named a Military Friendly school for 2026–2027, a national designation that recognizes colleges for their commitment to the success of veterans, service members, and military families.
The recognition reflects years of work by the Veterans & Military Success Center in Ridgeview Commons, which supports more than 400 military-connected students. The center helps students use GI Bill and Tuition Assistance benefits, earn college credit for military training, and connect with peer mentors who understand the transition from service to the classroom.
Veterans bring leadership, discipline, and a world of experience into our classrooms. Our job is to clear the path so they can focus on what comes next.
— Denise Howard, Sergeant Major (Ret.), Director of the Veterans & Military Success Center
Support that goes beyond paperwork
The center offers a quiet study lounge, a free coffee bar, and weekly drop-in hours with a VA certifying official. Partnerships with local counseling providers give students confidential access to mental health support, and the college’s accessibility services team works closely with veterans who have service-connected disabilities.
Military-connected students also lead the Student Veterans of America chapter, which organizes service projects along Cooper’s Run and the annual 5K on Veterans Memorial Green.
The college will honor all who have served at its Veterans Day Ceremony on Wednesday, November 11, at 11 a.m. on Veterans Memorial Green. The community is welcome.