WGU Ranked Among America’s Best Employers for Veterans by Forbes

SALT LAKE CITY – Western Governors University (WGU) has been recognized on Forbes’ list of America’s Best Employers for Veterans 2020. The university was chosen based on an independent survey sampling of 5,000 U.S. veterans (individuals who have served in the United States Armed Forces—either in the regular military or in the National Guard or military reserves) working for companies employing at least 1,000 people within the U.S.

Forbes announced that online, nonprofit WGU is among only 150 companies being recognized for the prestigious award, presented by Forbes and Statista Inc., the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider. The awards list was announced on November 2nd, 2020 and can currently be viewed on the Forbes website.

“Our employees enrich the student experience and drive WGU’s mission to improve the lives of students and their families,” said Bonnie Pattee, Senior Vice President of People and Talent. “We are proud of the many brave faculty, staff, and university leaders who have served our country and now serve our students, giving them the support and guidance they need to thrive.”

Veterans were asked to give their opinion on a series of statements related to general topics regarding their employer, such as atmosphere and development, image, working conditions, salary and wage, workplace, and diversity, as well as a set of topics related specifically to the interests of veterans in the workplace. The 150 companies receiving the highest total scores were named the “Best Employers for Veterans 2020.”

This recognition is a testament to WGU’s guiding principles and cultural beliefs, which include a commitment to “inspire and enable our students, our people, and ourselves to be better.”

WGU is recognized year after year for being one of the best schools for military servicemembers, veterans, and their families. Its competency-based learning model allows students to use the knowledge and skills they already possess to advance quickly in their studies, saving them both time and money. The university currently serves more than 15,000 students who are active-duty servicemembers, veterans, and military spouses or dependents.