Academic Center enhances veterinary program

Friday, September 18, 2015

With the addition of a new Academic Center to house faculty offices, Oklahoma State University’s Center for Veterinary Health Sciences is doing even more to address the growing national shortage of veterinarians.

OSU’s veterinary center is one of only 30 American colleges accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association.

During the grand opening for the Academic Center Sept. 12, OSU President Burns Hargis said the veterinary program is a “jewel on our campus.” It has produced more than 3,700 graduates and accomplished “amazing things.”

“The faculty and students of the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences are a constant source of pride for everyone associated with OSU,” Hargis said. “With this wonderful facility, and continued support from donors, I am confident this world-class program will continue to build on its rich history.”

“When the Boren Veterinary Medical Hospital opened in the late 1970s, the only space for veterinary clinical sciences faculty was in the basement. The cubicles did not provide privacy for the counseling of students and clients," said Dr. Jean Sander, dean of CVHS. “Those conditions made it difficult to recruit and retain the best faculty. Once this Academic Center started becoming a reality, we brought on many bright young faculty who are enhancing our teaching and research, and expanding our clinical services.”

The new building connects to the Boren Hospital, better equipping OSU to support progressive clinical education, accommodate additional growth and meet the challenges and advancements in 21st-century veterinary medicine.

“The Center for Veterinary Health Sciences and the Boren Veterinary Medical Hospital epitomize our land-grand mission,” Hargis said. “They train the next generation of veterinarians, conduct breakthrough research and utilize their expertise to benefit the citizens of our state.”

One beneficiary of CVHS’s services is Vicki Palmer, a grateful client who owns four dogs. She has become a significant supporter of the program who contributes her time, expertise and financial resources.

“I must tell you I had never before had the pleasure of working with so many dedicated and professional individuals,” Palmer said. “I love to boast about CVHS every chance I get.”

The celebration included the release of a juvenile barn owl that was treated by OSU veterinarians. Pictured above is OSU President Burns Hargis assisting Dr. Joao Brandao with the release. The owlet was about 30 days old when it was found in a nest during the demolition of a building in the Stillwater area. Veterinarians and students performed many tests on the owl, fed her by hand, and facilitated her growth and development until she was ready for release.

For more information about the Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, visit vetmed.okstate.edu/.