TAHLEQUAH, Okla. – Northeastern State University was proclaimed a Purple Heart University by the Military Order of the Purple Heart on Nov. 11, recognizing the university's longstanding commitment to honoring and supporting veterans and military-connected students.
The designation reflects NSU's 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 show a lasting commitment to honoring veterans and their sacrifices.
NSU has earned Silver Military Friendly School recognition for six consecutive years and is one of the few U.S. institutions with an endowed scholarship funded by the Military Order of the Purple Heart Foundation.
Don Nichols, an NSU alumnus, 2026 NSU Centurion recipient and Purple Heart recipient, played a significant role in securing both the designation and the endowed scholarship.
Donald R. Nichols addresses attendees of the Northeastern State University Purple Heart Ceremony on Nov. 11 in Tahlequah. (Photo courtesy of Northeastern State University)
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," Glenn said. "To have this proclamation ceremony on Veterans Day, following the Tahlequah Veterans Day parade, is especially meaningful."
NSU President Rodney Hanley, a veteran, said the designation should give other veterans and military-connected students greater confidence in choosing NSU.
"Our campus community is built for success, opportunity and belonging," Hanley said. "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 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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