Bigbie Named OSU Vet Med Distinguished Alumnus

Tuesday, August 10, 2021

Media Contact: Derinda Blakeney | College of Veterinary Medicine | 405-744-6740 | derinda@okstate.edu

Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine recently named Dr. Rocky Bigbie of Guthrie, Oklahoma, a 2021 Distinguished Alumnus Award recipient. 

Bigbie served 26 years in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps (active duty and reserves) retiring as a lieutenant colonel. He was responsible for the care and supervision of military working dogs and horses, training of animal care specialists, and regulatory compliance. He then spent the next 23 years working in the pharmaceutical industry.

Bigbie collaborated with researchers and excelled in equine pharmaceutical and biological technical services. He was instrumental in establishing the academic liaison role serving all western veterinary colleges. Bigbie is a strong advocate for his alma mater and active in the American Association of Equine Practitioners having served in several leadership roles. 

“His CV is long and outstanding but his major contributions to OSU and the veterinary profession have come in his mentoring of veterinary students throughout the western United States in his role with Zoetis," said Dr. R. Reynolds Cowles Jr., who nominated Bigbie for this award. "Rocky has been tireless in his support of student programs regionally and nationally.” 

“I am genuinely honored by this recognition from my beloved OSU,” Bigbie said. “I feel very unworthy when I reflect on previous recipients and even my close friends and classmates who are far more deserving. My unconventional path in veterinary medicine was such a blessing in my life; the notion that I have distinguished myself bolsters that blessing.”

Bigbie earned his doctorate degree from OSU in 1981 and a master's degree in veterinary surgery from Auburn University in 1989. He is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine. Bigbie will be honored at the veterinary college’s Distinguished Alumni Award Luncheon on Friday, Nov. 5.