NSU Purple Heart University
NSU receives the designation on Veterans Day in recognition of its continued support for military-connected students, families and veterans
TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University (NSU) was officially proclaimed as a Purple Heart University on Nov. 11 by the Military Order of the Purple Heart, recognizing the university’s longstanding commitment to honoring and supporting veterans and military-connected students.
NSU’s designation reflects its dedication to providing resources, educational opportunities and recognition for military-connected students, families and veterans.
The Purple Heart is the oldest military decoration still awarded to members of the U.S. Armed Forces who are wounded or killed in action. The Purple Heart University designation recognizes institutions that demonstrate a lasting commitment to honoring veterans and their sacrifices.
For six consecutive years, NSU has earned the Silver Military Friendly® School recognition, and is one of the few U.S. institutions to have an endowed scholarship funded by the Military Order of the Purple Heart Foundation.
Don Nichols, NSU alumnus, 2026 NSU Centurion recipient and Purple Heart recipient, played a significant role in securing the university’s designation and the endowed scholarship.
Peggy Glenn, executive director of the NSU Foundation, said Nichols has worked tirelessly to honor veterans and strengthen recognition in the community.
“This is the final piece of his vision, and NSU is so proud to become a Purple Heart University to honor veterans like Don and many other students, employees and alumni, who have fought for our freedom,” said Glenn. “To have this proclamation ceremony on Veterans Day, following the Tahlequah Veterans Day parade, is especially meaningful.”
NSU President Rodney Hanley, a veteran, said he hopes the designation will give other veterans and military-connected students greater confidence in choosing NSU.
“Our campus community is built for success, opportunity and belonging,” said Hanley. “I hope this Purple Heart designation gives veterans and military-connected students greater confidence in choosing NSU, knowing they will be supported throughout their educational journey and beyond.”
NSU continues to build on its tradition of supporting military-connected students through programs such as the Office of Veterans Services, Army ROTC, the Military Tuition Assistance program and the Yellow Ribbon Program. The university also launched a bachelor’s degree in military science last year, expanding its academic opportunities for students interested in military leadership.
For more information about NSU’s Office of Veterans Services, visit nsuok.edu/veterans.
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