In a recent guest column in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette, Tom Foley, President of the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania (AICUP), underscored the critical connection between national security, workforce readiness, and Pennsylvania’s higher education institutions.
Foley notes that national security is not only a federal priority – it is also a significant driver of Pennsylvania’s economy. An estimated 115,000 Pennsylvanians are employed in defense-related jobs, and the Commonwealth’s colleges and universities play a key role in preparing and supporting the workforce that sustains that sector.
AICUP’s member colleges, which include private, nonprofit institutions across the state, are deeply committed to supporting military veterans as they transition from service to civilian careers. Nearly all AICUP member colleges offer VA and GI Bill educational benefits, ensuring veterans can access higher education and skills training without unnecessary barriers. And, the vast majority of AICUP member colleges also participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program, which helps veterans cover the cost of tuition not fully met by the GI Bill.
The impact of these efforts is measurable. In 2025, AICUP member colleges saw a seven percent increase in the number of GI Bill students enrolled – an indication that veterans continue to view Pennsylvania’s independent colleges as strong partners in their educational and professional journeys.
Beyond education benefits, AICUP institutions also actively support military leadership development, with 70 percent of its colleges being involved with ROTC officer training, to help prepare the next generation of military leaders.
Foley’s column also highlights the broader national security contributions made by Pennsylvania’s independent colleges through research and innovation, including defense-related innovations. This helps strengthen Pennsylvania’s role in advancing cutting-edge solutions while supporting economic growth.
AICUP’s full guest column is available to read here.