The University at Buffalo (UB) has once again earned national recognition as a Top Veteran School by U.S. Veterans Magazine, and for good reason. With more than 750 military-connected students—including veterans, active-duty personnel, spouses and dependents—UB is committed to building a strong, supportive environment for those who have served.
Daniel Ryan, Director of Veteran Services at UB, has spent his career helping student veterans succeed, and he says this recognition reinforces the work his office does daily. “Being recognized as a top Military Friendly School is extremely gratifying,” Ryan says. “But even with that recognition, we know we have to earn it every day with each of our 750 student veterans.”
Enhanced Services
UB is not just a place where veterans go to class—it’s where they receive holistic support to transition into civilian and academic life. Veteran Services at UB offers resume workshops, counseling, tutoring, disability accommodations and even access to private scholarships, all from one centralized location.
That accessibility can be life-changing. Ryan recalls a veteran student who had recently left active duty and began his academic journey just weeks later. But the transition isn’t always easy.
“We were able to arrange special accommodations when the student needed temporary housing, making sure they started their academic journey rested and without stress,” Ryan says.
Real-World Impact
UB’s academic reputation is another major draw for veterans, particularly those seeking to leverage their military training.
“With over 150 undergraduate and more than 300 graduate programs, especially in STEM fields like engineering and artificial intelligence, UB offers career paths that align with veterans’ goals and skill sets,” Ryan says. “Whether you’re transitioning into tech, health care or research, UB provides the foundation and the support network to succeed.”
Supporting the Family
UB’s services extend beyond the veteran to support the whole military-connected household. The university also offers resources for spouses and dependents, ensuring that the journey from service to school to career is a family affair.
And it’s not just people providing support—UB’s four-legged team member, Finnegan, plays a vital role as a therapy dog.
“Finnegan is an in-demand member of our staff,” Ryan laughs. “He’s a 25-pound ball of furry love. Bred to be a therapy dog, he reduces stress during midterms and finals, for both veteran and civilian students.”
What Sets UB Apart
What makes UB exceptional, Ryan says, isn’t just the services offered—it’s the people behind them.
“While our Veteran Services team is small, we have a battalion of committed professionals across campus—advisors, counselors, financial aid officers—who act as points of contact for our military-connected students,” he explains. “Together, we work to ensure that every student has the tools and support to thrive. In over 35 years in student affairs, this is the most rewarding work I’ve done.”
For veterans seeking their next mission in the classroom and beyond, UB continues to demonstrate that its dedication is more than just a slogan—it’s a daily practice.
Read more articles for the Veteran Community here.
