Appalachian State University has earned the #1 spot on Forbes’ 2026 list of “America’s Best Employers for Veterans.” The rankings recognize organizations across the country that excel in welcoming military veterans and aiding their transition into civilian workplace environments. For its seventh annual rankings, Forbes surveyed over 25,000 veterans at U.S. companies with more than 1,000 employees. App State also consistently ranks among the nation’s premier institutions for military-affiliated students.