SBWI Recognized as Gold-Level Veteran-Friendly School
Adrian, MI – The Sam Beauford Woodworking Institute (SBWI) has been officially recognized as a Gold-Level Veteran-Friendly School for the 2025–2026 academic year by the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA)
This prestigious recognition highlights SBWI’s commitment to supporting student veterans and their families through dedicated services, resources, and programs that help them succeed both in school and in their future careers.
“We are honored to receive this recognition from the MVAA,” said Dena Koehn, Vice President of Enrollment at SBWI. “At SBWI, we are committed to providing an environment where veterans and their families feel supported, respected, and empowered to pursue their goals in fine craftsmanship and skilled trades.”
The MVAA’s Veteran-Friendly School Program awards Gold, Silver, or Bronze status to institutions of higher learning that demonstrate a strong commitment to veteran success. The Gold-Level designation—the program’s highest honor—reflects SBWI’s dedication to fostering a learning community where veterans can thrive.
SBWI offers accredited programs in skilled trades and fine furniture making, drawing students from across the nation and around the globe. By aligning its resources with the needs of veterans, SBWI is not only shaping the next generation of highly skilled craftspeople but also ensuring that those who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces are provided with meaningful opportunities to build rewarding careers.
This recognition strengthens SBWI’s position as a leader in woodworking education and further emphasizes its role in contributing to Michigan’s workforce development, economic growth, and veteran support initiatives.