Denise Burkin, you have been selected for #TiffinTuesdays for your service and involvement with the veterans at Tiffin University. Could you tell us about your position here at TU?
I am proud to be the director of veteran and military services here at Tiffin University. I have the privilege of assisting veterans, reservists, National Guard and active duty military with all matters related to the use of their education benefits.
What do you love about your job?
I appreciate building relationships with our students both on campus and online, and the feeling that comes with knowing that these students trust me to keep their best interest, well-being and success as my focus. It is a pleasure to serve those who have served unselfishly.
This year Tiffin University has been named a Military Friendly School. Could you tell us what is the Military Friendly designation?
The Military Friendly designation is a standard that measures the University’s level of commitment to the success of its entire military community.
What does this mean for Tiffin University?
This designation is a testament to Tiffin University’s continued efforts to enhance the services and resources available to our military students. Our military student population is an additional facet that enriches the cultural uniqueness present at Tiffin University.
Does this make Tiffin University stand apart from other universities?
Tiffin University is among universities across the country that strive to support their military student population however, when potential students and their families visit the Tiffin campus, it is very apparent that we, as a campus community, fully embrace our military. The Veteran and Military Resource Center on campus was dedicated as a place for military students to gather for a variety of activities. We are proud of this facility which has extra computers for student use, lounge area, two TVs and a kitchen.
What did you have to do to apply?
To be considered for the Military Friendly designation, we completed a very comprehensive survey that addressed several university standards and benchmarks including: degrees and programs offered, admissions, government-sponsored programs and policies, tuition costs, support for military students, metrics regarding retention rates, graduation rates and job placement rates.