Watercolor rendering of Military and Veteran Center

APU Military and Veterans Center

Construction of New Military and Veterans Center Underway

Follow the center’s progress as it grows into a dedicated space, uniquely equipped to serve APU’s military-connected students. The innovative facility will enable APU to provide a network of resources to ensure a smooth transition for students from military to civilian life, while helping students maximize their benefits. Once enrolled, these men and women who courageously and selflessly served our nation will be supported academically, spiritually, and socially.

Project Highlights

Project Funded by Historic $10M Gift

A landmark $10 million gift from an anonymous donor marks the largest single cash donation in the university’s history. This generous donation makes the new Military and Veterans Center possible and ensures a bright future for APU’s veteran and military-connected students.

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Groundbreaking, Fall 2025

Donors, veterans, and community leaders gathered alongside APU faculty, staff, and students to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Military and Veterans Center in October. This new building will pave the way for enhanced programs and facilities to provide comprehensive support, strengthen connection, and expand resources for military-connected students.

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Building Rendering and Vision

APU collaborated with architects to establish a clear and purposeful vision for the center. The renderings illustrate the direction of the project and how the finished space will support military-connected students for years to come.

Dedication and Opening, Spring 2026

When the Military and Veterans Center opens in spring 2026, APU will welcome more than 340 military-connected students into a space that features 3,900 square feet (located on East Campus on the site of former Multimedia Classrooms 5-8) six offices, conference room, training room, lounge and study space, restroom, kitchenette, and outdoor patio.

President with important military personell posing

2024-25 Milestones

September 2024–August 2025: Design and Planning – Finalize drawings, permits, and coordination
Late August–Early September 2025: Procurement – Bidding, contract awards, and material releases
Early September 2025: Site Preparation – Site utilities, barricades, erosion control set up
September 8–October 20, 2025: Demolition – Demo of existing elements, rough grading
September 16, 2025–January 19, 2026: Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and Interior Work – MEP tie-ins, rough-ins, insulation, skylights, ceiling framing

September 26–December 23, 2025: Structural Development – Footings, framings, CMU infill, roof modification
October 27–December 31, 2025: Exterior Finishes – Wall panels, paint, windows, canopies, lighting
November 24, 2025–January 9, 2026: Landscaping – Hardscape, irrigation, and final site work
December 29, 2025–February 16, 2026: Interior Finishes – Drywall, paint, flooring, doors, and hardware

2026 Finalization and Opening

February 20–27, 2026: Testing, Inspections, and Closeout – Final clean, punch, inspections, and turnover
February 28–March 2, 2026: Furniture Installation

April 2026 (Target): Grand Opening – Ribbon cutting and operational handoff

Military-Connected Students: Ulyses

From Service to Opportunities

APU’s commitment to the success of our veteran and military-connected community is shown through powerful financial support, strong federal benefits, and our recognized excellence. The new Military and Veterans Center makes this commitment tangible, providing a dedicated space that fosters opportunities and belonging where students thrive.

Nearly $1.5 Million in annual tuition support delivered through the Yellow Ribbon Program and federal benefits to our military community.

$10 Million Gift funds APU’s largest investment in military-connected students and programs.

Top 10% APU earned the 2025-26 Military Friendly® School designation with Gold Status, ranking in the top 10% of all institutions nationwide.

I learned to serve others well at APU and in the military, and now I’m blessed with the opportunity to serve others here in the communities that need it most.

Erick Quintanilla ’11, MM ’13

Watch Erick’s Reel