SALINAS, CA — June 25, 2025 — Hartnell College has been recognized as one of the nation's Top 10 Military Friendly Schools for 2025-2026 by G.I. Jobs Magazine, earning the No. 8 spot among large community colleges. The announcement is part of the magazine’s annual Military Friendly Schools list, a trusted resource that helps veterans and their families select institutions that best support their academic and career goals.

Published each year, the Military Friendly Schools Guide evaluates more than 1,800 institutions, using public data and proprietary survey responses. Key categories include student retention, graduation, job placement, loan repayment, persistence, and support services tailored to veterans. Schools must meet or exceed benchmarks in all areas to earn the designation.

Hartnell’s Top 10 ranking reflects its deep and ongoing commitment to military-connected students, including active-duty service members, veterans and their families. Through its Veterans Services Office, Hartnell provides the following comprehensive range of services:

· Veterans Resource Center (VRC): A welcoming space offering academic advising, peer support and access to computers, printers and quiet study areas.

· Priority registration: Helping veterans create schedules that accommodate work and family commitments.

· VA education benefits assistance: Personalized support to navigate GI Bill and other military education benefits.

· Veteran-specific counseling and peer mentoring: Programs to support the transition from military to civilian academic life.

· Community partnerships: Collaborations with regional organizations that promote veteran career development and reintegration.

“We are honored to be recognized among the nation’s most military-friendly institutions,” said Michael Gutierrez, superintendent/president of Hartnell College. “Our veterans have given so much to our country. We are proud to serve them and their families by providing a welcoming, supportive environment where they can thrive academically and personally.”

The college’s impact is perhaps best expressed by its student veterans themselves:

“What makes this school great for veterans is the dedicated staff and the camaraderie among the other veterans here.” — Corp. Shemar Joseph, Army veteran

“My college truly goes above and beyond for military students. From helpful veteran student workers to making GI Bill matters easy to navigate, it’s a welcoming place where veterans and active duty folks actually feel seen and supported. They don’t just talk about appreciation; they demonstrate it with events, resources and real recognition all year long.” — Petty Officer 3rd Class Timothy Velasquez, Navy veteran

“Hartnell College is an amazing place for veterans to attend. The Veterans Center makes students feel welcome, and the staff always helps with any trouble we have.” — Sgt. Juan Guzman, Marine Corps veteran

“From my point of view as a veteran and student, Hartnell College stands out as one of the top military-friendly schools in the nation. It truly understands the transition from service to school — offering personalized support, credit for military experience, and career pathways that make me feel seen, supported, and set up for success.” — Sgt. Jorge Morales, Army veteran

About Hartnell College

Located in the heart of Salinas Valley, Hartnell Community College District is a leading institution serving over 12,000 students annually across our main campus in Salinas, the Alisal Campus, and education centers in King City, Castroville, and Soledad. HCCD is a Seal of Excelencia Certified institution and a recognized Hispanic-serving institution since 2000. We offer associate and bachelor's degrees and certificate programs to prepare students for successful transfer to four-year universities or immediate entry into the workforce. Learn more about our programs and initiatives.