At Whitworth University in Spokane, Washington, supporting veterans is more than a commitment—it’s a calling. With a growing population of military-connected students, Whitworth has distinguished itself as a leader in veteran education, earning recognition from U.S. Veterans Magazine as both a Top Veteran-Friendly School and Top Yellow Ribbon School.
Much of this success can be attributed to Phil Labrie, Whitworth’s Associate Director, Military & Veterans Outreach. A U.S. Air Force veteran and university alum, Labrie brings a unique perspective to the role. “When I got out of the Air Force in 2003, I used my GI Bill to attend Whitworth. That decision changed my life,” Labrie said. “Now, I’m fortunate to help others transition from service to higher education.”
That transition is one Labrie understands deeply. His academic path began with a modest high school record and evolved through military service, ultimately leading to a degree in accounting. “I wasn’t the strongest student in high school, but the military helped me grow,” he said. “That experience helps me connect with incoming students who might be in the same boat.”
Whitworth’s veteran outreach is profoundly personal and relationship-driven. “We’re a small school by design,” Labrie said. “Professors know your name. The support here is real—and I felt that as a student myself.” That personal connection is a key reason veterans feel welcomed at Whitworth and why word-of-mouth continues to drive military enrollment.
Beyond its culture of care, Whitworth offers a variety of resources to support veterans, including the Military and Veteran Resource Center—better known as the MAVRC. Opened in 2021 after Labrie petitioned for a dedicated space, the MAVRC now resides in a renovated campus house specially outfitted for military students. A major outdoor transformation was brought to life by the KXLY Extreme Team, Horizon Credit Union and Cole Concrete, who helped convert the property into a welcoming, ADA-compliant venue for events, barbecues and student gatherings.
The MAVRC’s name itself reflects the school’s inclusive spirit. “I didn’t want to just call it the Veteran Resource Center,” Labrie explained. “We serve active-duty service members, reservists, dependents—all military-affiliated students. MAVRC, which sounds like ‘Maverick,’ just fit perfectly.”
The university’s support also extends to finance. As a Yellow Ribbon school, Whitworth covers any remaining tuition not paid by the Post-9/11 GI Bill by matching the VA contribution. “When I arrived, we had limits—only so many Yellow Ribbon slots and a cap on how much we’d match,” Labrie said. “Now, it’s unlimited. No caps. If you have the benefit, you don’t pay tuition. Period.”
From military appreciation football games with skydivers to challenge coin presentations and personalized admissions counseling for nontraditional applicants, Whitworth makes every effort to honor and serve those who’ve worn the uniform.
“This recognition means a lot,” Labrie said. “Many schools say they’re military friendly, but at Whitworth, we live it every day.” With leaders like Labrie and a university culture rooted in care, Whitworth continues to set the standard for military support in higher education.
Read more articles for the Veteran Community here.
