Lakeshore College in Cleveland, Wisconsin, has been designated a Military Friendly School for the 16th year in a row by Viqtory, an organization that connects the military community with educational and entrepreneurial opportunities, as well as civilian employment. The announcement was made for the 2025-26 designation, with contributions from the Military Friendly Advisory Council consisting of independent leaders in the higher education and military recruitment community. Lakeshore was also recognized as a Military Spouse Friendly School in the small community college category, receiving a silver ranking.
More than 1,800 schools participated in the 2025-26 survey. Institutions earning the Military Friendly School title were evaluated using public data sources and responses to a proprietary survey.
The college partners with local resources such as County Veterans Services, Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs, and the Federal Veterans Administration. Lakeshore College President Dr. Paul Carlsen commented, “Lakeshore College is here to assist our military students as they successfully transition into the college and civilian work environment. This recognition shows our ongoing dedication and commitment to supporting veterans and their families.”
Lakeshore offers various benefits through the Wisconsin GI Bill, including tuition and material fee waivers, housing allowances, and additional stipends. The college processes state-level Retraining Grant Applications for veterans classified as dislocated workers, National Guard Tuition Grant Applications, and VetEd Reimbursement Grants. It also participates in the My Career Advancement Account scholarship program, which offers financial assistance to eligible military spouses pursuing portable careers.
Lakeshore College educates over 9,000 students annually, offering career skills and pathways to a bachelor’s degree. The college received significant national recognition, including being ranked #2 by Washington Monthly, #17 by Forbes, #20 by WalletHub.com, and a top-150 two-year college by the Aspen Institute. It is a 2024 Bellwether Award winner and was named the 2021 Large Business/Industry of the Year by the Chamber of Manitowoc County.
Annually, around 800 students graduate from Lakeshore, with associate degree graduates reporting a median salary of $61,355 within six months. Besides the Cleveland campus, the college operates learning centers in downtown Manitowoc and Sheboygan and offers classes at other district locations.
Contact: Teri Sturm, Senior Content Strategist
