in 2015, first data made a seven-year, $7 million commitment to the institute for veterans and military families at syracuse university to fund education, research, training and other opportunities for transitioning veterans entering the business community. the company was listed on diversityinc's 25 noteworthy companies for 2015. in may 2017 first data was recognized as the #1 company on the "military times" annual “best for vets: employers 2017” list.