National University Allocates $150,000 to Scholarships for Military Spouses' Education

National University Invests in Military Spouses Through $150,000 in Educational Scholarships

National University (NU) has announced the allocation of $150,000 in scholarships aimed at military spouses pursuing higher education. This initiative is part of the university’s commitment to supporting the educational journeys of military families. Named the Whisper Military Spouse Scholarship, this program honors the resilience and aspirations of spouses of military personnel, who often juggle personal education goals with the demands of frequent relocations and career transitions specific to military life.

The scholarship program was founded in 2022, designed to provide much-needed financial assistance to those navigating the complexities of military life while aspiring to achieve academic success. As stated by Whisper Snyder, the scholarship’s namesake and a National University alum, the initiative is a testament to the strength and determination of military spouses. She emphasizes that pursuing educational goals can be incredibly challenging while supporting a service member, and this scholarship serves as a crucial reminder that their ambitions matter and are worthy of support.

Since its inception, the Whisper Military Spouse Scholarship has awarded funds to 96 recipients, distributing a total of $835,000. In just the past year, the university has disbursed another $150,000 to assist 15 military spouses in various fields of study.

The impact of this scholarship extends beyond mere financial assistance. Recipients often describe a profound emotional experience upon learning they have been selected; many report that it has empowered them to pursue degrees they once thought were unattainable. One previous recipient, Savanna Clarke, expressed her gratitude, stating that the scholarship has helped her turn her dreams into reality after years of hesitation due to financial limitations.

Dr. Mark D. Milliron, president and CEO of National University, reinforces the importance of supporting military spouses, highlighting their resilience and leadership qualities. He believes that programs like the Whisper Military Spouse Scholarship are essential in honoring their service and aiding in their personal and educational development.

The Whisper Military Spouse Scholarship is only one element of National University's broader support for military-affiliated learners. Recognized nationally as a military-friendly institution, NU offers accessible tuition rates for active duty members and their families, along with extensive military and veteran support services. This includes the provision of credits for military training and tailored programs that accommodate the unique challenges faced by military families.

In addition, National University has recently enhanced its support through the establishment of the LA Campus Veteran and Military Community Center, solidifying its role as a partner in the Military Spouse Employment Partnership, which aims to create career advancement opportunities for military spouses.

Meg O'Grady, senior vice president of military and government affairs at National University, asserts that a true commitment to supporting military spouses goes beyond flexibility; it requires purposeful investment. The Whisper Military Spouse Scholarship stands as a crucial step towards helping spouses maintain their academic trajectories amid the realities of military life, which often include unexpected moves and job disruptions.

With a legacy of serving nontraditional and working students since 1971, National University continues to thrive as San Diego’s largest private nonprofit university. The institution offers over 150 degrees through online and campus-based programs, accommodating busy learners with options that include four-week and eight-week courses. Annually, the university serves around 130,000 students, boasting a vast alumni network of 250,000 individuals who go on to make significant contributions in diverse fields such as business, education, health, cybersecurity, and law.

For more information about the Whisper Military Spouse Scholarship, as well as National University’s dedication to supporting military-affiliated learners, visit NU.edu.