Vet Cetera 2023 by Oklahoma State

VET CETERA The official magazine of the College of Veterinary Medicine

THE NEXT 75 LOOKING TOWARD THE FUTURE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE

DEAN’S LETTER

Greetings from the Dean As we celebrate the College of Veterinary Medicine’s 75th anniversary, I am proud of the advancements those within our college have made in the veterinary medical profession. From that first class of DVM students in 1948 to welcoming the largest class in college history this year, we have seen an immense amount of progress. Honoring the past is a crucial part of our legacy, but we must also keep our eyes fixed on the future. A major step forward for the CVM this year was the passage of HB 2863, which created the Oklahoma State University Veterinary Medicine Authority. This authority will secure long-term support for clinical training in our college. It will also have public health implications as it will aid in sustaining diagnostic services to agricultural producers and the continuation of research to improve human and animal health. Our faculty members continue to be quite productive in research endeavors (see page 54). Collaboration across all three departments and the Oklahoma State University campus continues. This year, we hosted an international symposium that welcomed speakers and attendees from around the world (see page 57). Our relationship with Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University in Chennai, India, remains strong. We continue to have successful faculty and student exchanges to strengthen this global partnership (see page 36). We welcomed more than 50 new faculty and staff members to the college this year (see page 2). Dr. Kelly Black joined our team as the new hospital director (see page 6). His vast experience in leading major hospital operations and building strong, engaged teams will serve our hospital well in the upcoming year. We also expanded our Primary Care service (see page 42) and are continuing to grow our Behavior Service (see page 20). The new Clinical Skills Lab opened this fall and incorporated a new curriculum for our students (see page 22). The CVM continues to be accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education and our next site visit is scheduled for 2024. For 2023, we graduated 97 new veterinarians (see page 7). This class achieved a NAVLE passage rate of 96% — a figure that puts OSU 10 percentage points higher than the national average. The CVM raised more than $5 million in FY23. The OSU Foundation hosted notable events to aid in fundraising efforts, including the CVM Ranch Open House. They also have plans to continue to grow the Grateful Client Giving Program. We continue to address the rural veterinarian shortage through the Integrated Beef Cattle Program. Class III of the program concluded this year, and we are excited to welcome a new class in 2024. As we embrace our historical past, we focus on the promising opportunities that lie ahead and look forward to serving you in 2024 and for another 75 years.

Carlos A. Risco, DVM, Dipl. ACT Dean, College of Veterinary Medicine Oklahoma State University

IN THIS ISSUE

On The Cover

The College of Veterinary Medicine had humble beginnings when it opened in 1948 but has proved its worth for the state over 75 years. (Original cover photo by Gary Lawson)

Women in Veterinary Medicine

Plus … NEW HIRES AND PROMOTIONS

CLASS OF 2023

CLASS OF 2027

CVM UPDATES

CVM RESEARCH

DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI

IN MEMORIAM

DEAN, COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE

Carlos A. Risco, DVM, Dipl. ACT PUBLIC RELATIONS AND MARKETING COORDINATOR

Taylor Bacon

Female veterinarians push through early obstacles, now make up large part of field.

COMMUNICATIONS SPECIALIST

Kinsey Reed SENIOR DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT/TEAM LEAD

Hunter Hughes EDITOR

Jordan Bishop ART DIRECTOR

From the Horse’s Mouth OSU veterinarians alleviate mare’s breathing issue, earn client’s appreciation.

Dave Malec DESIGNER

Cody Giles

PHOTOGRAPHY

Taylor Bacon, Gary Lawson, Genesee Photo Systems, Kinsey Reed, Phil Shockley, Mak Vandruff, Elizabeth Perdue and Bailey White

New Addition Primary Care Service benefits students and clients alike.

The College of Veterinary Medicine graduates competent, confident, career-ready veterinarians — a tradition it has proudly carried forward since the day the veterinary college opened its doors 75 years ago. Please join us at the CVM website: vetmed.okstate.edu.

Mending Marsupials Hospital’s zoological medical team treats two kangaroos.

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Taylor Bacon, Lance Latham, Elizabeth Perdue, Kinsey Reed, Sydney Trainor, Mak Vandruff and Bailey White

VET CETERA magazine is published each winter by Oklahoma State University, 307 Whitehurst, Stillwater, OK 74078. The magazine is produced by the Office of Brand Management and the College of Veterinary Medicine. Its purpose is to connect the college with its many alumni and friends, providing information on both campus news and pertinent issues in the field of veterinary medicine. Postage is paid at Stillwater, OK, and additional mailing offices. All rights reserved. Oklahoma State University, in compliance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Higher Education Act), the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, genetic information, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, or status as a veteran, in any of its policies, practices or procedures. This provision includes, but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services. The Director of Equal Opportunity, 408 Whitehurst, OSU, Stillwater, OK 74078-1035; Phone 405-744-5371; email: eeo@okstate.edu has been designated to handle inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies. Any person (student, faculty, or staff) who believes that discriminatory practices have been engaged in based on gender may discuss his or her concerns and file informal or formal complaints of possible violations of Title IX with OSU’s Title IX Coordinator 405-744-9154. This publication, issued by Oklahoma State University as authorized by the College of Veterinary Medicine, was printed by Slate Group at a cost of $14,018 for 5,600 copies/Dec 2023. #vc2023

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 1

NEW FACES

NEW HIRES FACULTY Natarajan Aravindan Professor

Franciele Back Clinical Assistant Professor, Small Animal Emergency Medicine

David Bailey Clinical Assistant Professor, Small Animal Primary Care

Allison Biddick Teaching Track Assistant Professor, Small Animal Medicine

Daneeya Guthrie Clinical Lecturer, Small Animal Emergency

Alexis Jennings Clinical Assistant Professor, Food Animal Medicine and Surgery

Blake Murray Clinical Assistant Professor, Small Animal Primary Care

Marcelo De Oliveira Clinical Assistant Professor, Small Animal Emergency Medicine

Melissa Raymond Clinical Assistant Professor, Small Animal Primary Care

Joy Scaria Associate Professor

Neeraj Singh Assistant Professor

Dinesh Babu Somasundaram Research Assistant Professor

Lindsay Starkey Associate Professor

Greg Yoast Clinical Lecturer, Small Animal Emergency and Primary Care

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NEW HIRES STAFF Jaya Adair Animal Caretaker

Ariel Byfield Vet Tech III

Cody Chrisler Ranch Hand

Kelsey Coffield Administrative Assistant

Amy Cragun Sr. Administrative Support Specialist

Lauren Culver Vet Assist

Larissa Dutton-Wilson Radiology Tech II

Harley Fletcher Receiving Lab Tech

Saige Hatfield Vet Assist

Hunter Hughes Senior Director of Development/ Team Lead

Brendan Johnson Animal Caretaker

Kariel Johnson Admin Support Specialist

Cabe Johnson Events Specialist

Alexandria Krueger Receiving Lab Tech

Haleigh Lann Billing Specialist

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Lauren Lederman Admin Support Specialist

Emily Looper Parasitology Lab Supervisor

Alexis Mashburn Radiology Tech I

Roxanne Maynard Counselor and Wellness Coordinator

Sean McConnell Sr. Lab Tech - Histology

Jordan Randall Sr. Lab Tech - Serology

Kinsey Reed Communications Specialist

Kaylynn Sammons Vet Assist

Morgan Shaffer Vet Assist

Trevor Smith Central Sterile Technician

Sabrina Sturm Vet Assist

Shawn Suriano Vet Boarding Specialist

Kerrie Williams Sr. Financial Assistant

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PROMOTIONS

FACULTY/ STAFF

Kyndall Meyer Development Associate

Taylor Bacon Public Relations and Marketing Coordinator

Meredyth Jones Professor, Food Animal Medicine and Surgery

Megan Loane Receiving/Necropsy Manager

Christine Nichols Assistant Director of Continuing Education

Sarah Peakheart Clinical Associate Professor, Shelter Medicine

Madhan Subramanian Associate Professor

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Dr. Kelly Black, third from right, is a 2001 OSU College of Veterinary Medicine alumnus.

OSU Names New Director of Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital

make the hospital a great place to work n June, Kelly Black, DVM, in the industry.” DACVPM, took over as director The role of the OSU hospital in of Oklahoma State University’s Oklahoma is vital, given the rising Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, demand for large animal veterinarians returning to Stillwater to lead the amidst a declining number of state’s primary veterinary professionals in the field. medical center. Black, who previously Black, a 2001 OSU College served as a leader of the of Veterinary Medicine Veterinary Technology graduate, brings considerable Program at Dallas College, experience leading major said he fully embraces the hospital operations responsibilities ahead. and building engaged, “The OSU veterinary energetic teams of medical hospital is a part of professionals. a university that is “Dr. Black’s passion, transforming itself into commitment and advocacy Dr. Kelly Black the preeminent land-grant for the field of veterinary university in the nation, and the medicine will have a tremendous impact on our staff, faculty, students and clients, hospital and our team have a critical role to play in this transformation,” and we are confident he will take the Black said. “My vision is to restore and hospital to new heights to become a top sustain crucial veterinary services and veterinary hospital in the country,” said to enhance recruitment and retention Dr. Carlos Risco, dean of OSU CVM. of veterinarians and staff, both at the “Dr. Black’s leadership will inspire OSU teaching hospital and throughout innovation, growth, excellence, and also

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Oklahoma. As part of the Cowboy family, I know we can accomplish great things and find innovative ways to optimize student learning and broaden our reach to underserved, rural regions of the state.” Black’s appointment to the OSU hospital, one of 33 accredited in the nation, drew praise from the head of the state’s leading veterinary association. “A vibrant veterinary hospital is paramount to the well-being of our animal companions and the advancement of veterinary medicine,” said Cordon DeKock, executive director of the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association. “Dr. Black’s leadership will strengthen the hospital’s impact across Oklahoma and grow the profession at a time when our state has a severe shortage of trained veterinarians. Our association looks forward to working with Dr. Black and continuing our strong partnership with Dean Risco and the OSU team.”

STORY LANCE LATHAM | PHOTO TAYLOR BACON

Class of

2023 The 97 graduates in the class had a 96% pass rate on the NAVLE, 10 percentage points higher than the national average .

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 7

Unexpected Lessons Classmates award Brace the 2023 Gentle Doctor Award

ne of the most impactful educators for Dr. Amanda Brace during her time at the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine was a Holstein steer named Clyde. Despite not considering herself much of a cowgirl or a large animal enthusiast, Brace’s experience with Clyde imparted a lesson that no textbook could offer. Clyde was brought to OSU Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital with severe medical issues during Brace’s fourth year of veterinary school. He exhibited petlike docility and relished the company of people, often curling his head and neck around them for affectionate snuggles while they treated him. Despite the deep affection the students and veterinarians felt for Clyde, a time came when they had to question the extent of their treatment. “That situation was when I realized what compassion looked like,” Brace said. “We could try as many treatments as we could, but ultimately, it was best to euthanize him. I still think about Clyde all the time. He has a huge impact on me in knowing when to stop and when that’s best for the animal.” It was Clyde who taught Brace what it meant to be a gentle doctor. Each year, the OSU CVM graduating class selects one member to receive the Gentle Doctor Award. The class of 2023 selected Brace. Brace was a high school senior when she decided she wanted to be a veterinarian. A decision that she made much later compared to her classmates. “I was a senior in high school when I shadowed at a vet clinic,” Brace said. “I’ve always loved animals, but while shadowing at the clinic I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, this is really cool.’ Everything changed in that moment. I fell in love with it and veterinary medicine became my goal from then on.” Seated among her fellow classmates at the graduation ceremony, Brace’s ears perked up and she filled with emotion as her name was announced as the recipient of the award. “I was shocked when I heard my name called,” Brace said. “My class is filled with people who embody the Gentle Doctor Award. They love animals, and they’re gentle, compassionate and they

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remember that there’s an owner attached to that animal. I definitely expected someone else to get it, but I am honored that my class would choose me.” The bonds Brace formed with classmates in vet school are unique due to their shared experiences. She values those connections and people to empathize with as they each navigate their initial year in practice. When Brace contemplated focusing on clinical pathology, she spent time working alongside Dr. Susan Fielder, an assistant professor in the veterinary pathobiology department, whose passion for knowledge challenged Brace to want to continue learning, even after graduation. “Mandy is a very kind and compassionate person with an innate ability to connect with people, all skills that will help her to be a fantastic veterinarian,” Fielder said. Currently, Brace is a veterinarian at Care Animal Hospital in Tulsa, where she has enjoyed her first several months of general practice. “I’ve had so much fun just learning,” Brace said. “Yes, it’s challenging when you have a case that doesn’t go well or when there’s a client with a challenging patient, but overall learning the art of veterinary medicine has been amazing.” Brace sees each case as a puzzle — a challenge she looks forward to daily. “What I love about vet med is the diversity that you see every day, especially as a general practitioner. I also love people,” Brace said. “I love making relationships with clients while caring for the animals they love.” Wherever she ventures and however extensive her experience becomes, Brace remains dedicated to seeking mentors and learning opportunities akin to the ones that inspired her at OSU CVM. “Having a hunger and a thirst for learning is something I want to continue to embody, because things are constantly changing,” Brace said. “I was challenged by my professors’ love of learning and want to continue to learn not only for my personal understanding, but ultimately for the benefit of my patients.”

STORY SYDNEY TRAINOR | PHOTO GENESEE PHOTO SYSTEMS

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Generations of Compassion

Mims wins McElroy Award after following in father’s veterinary legacy

n May 12, 1973, Dr. Roger Mims graduated from the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Exactly 50 years later, his son, Ryan, crossed the stage to become the next Dr. Mims in a legacy of veterinarians. Not only did Mims earn his DVM, but he was also selected as the 2023 Dean Clarence H. McElroy award recipient. The recipient is selected by the graduating class and fourth-year instructors. It is the highest honor a CVM student can achieve. “Going from not knowing if I was even capable of getting into veterinary school to winning the school’s highest honor was such a surreal moment,” Mims said. Mims’ journey to veterinary school did not follow the typical path most veterinary students take. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from OSU in 2004 and planned to rodeo full time. After graduation, Mims worked with his father in the veterinary clinic and traveled to rodeos for 11 years. He considered applying to veterinary school, but between the work in the clinic and his rodeo schedule, he never found the time. His father was later diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and in 2015, they sold the practice. This left him wondering what his next steps would be. “I had thought about going back to school from time to time, but I always thought I was too old,” Mims said. “School was a challenge for me early, but I decided to go back and give it a try.” Mims said his father was the main driver behind him becoming a veterinarian. “He was my best friend, and we liked all the same things and did all the same things,” Mims said. “It wasn’t until I started working with him every day and working with the animals that I began to understand the impact he had on the community and the way he affected people’s lives through working on their animals.” Mims decided to enroll in the courses he needed to apply to veterinary school and spent two years

STORY AND PHOTO TAYLOR BACON

completing his undergraduate requirements. In 2019, he was accepted into veterinary school. Mims’ path to his DVM was comprised of a desire to help people, a love for animals and a lot of faith. However, it did not come without its challenges. While many students put studying and tests at the top of their list for veterinary school challenges, Mims found the most challenging part to be the changes to his life routine. “We had a home life established so it was a big change as far as moving our family, selling a home, finding a place to live and adjusting to a new way of life,” Mims said. “It was hard to navigate for me and my wife. I was very driven, but I also had to find a way to be present while I was home.” Mims said it really comes down to following his dreams. His father used to tell him if he found something he loved, he’d never work a day in his life. “My dad loved being a veterinarian,” Mims said. “He loved it so much, it’s kind of what scared me away from it because I didn’t know if I could love it the way he did.” Inspiration from his father and support from his wife and family members served as encouragement for Mims as he worked toward his degree. He now carries on his father’s legacy of providing the best care for animals while serving his clients. “Some if it comes from rodeo and some comes from veterinary school, but my biggest takeaway is to have a passion for what you’re doing, go after what you want and follow your dreams,” Mims said. After graduation, Mims began an equine internship at 113 Equine in Waco, Texas. “I never say never anymore. I never thought I’d be a veterinarian and I never thought I’d work on horses exclusively,” Mims said. “The biggest lesson I learned is to trust in God. I say that because it took a lot of faith to even want to try this, but it amazes me how blessed I’ve been through this journey and the way he continues to bless my family.”

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CVM student August Fitzpatrick plays with a dog. Fitzpatrick was awarded the Dean Harry W. Orr Award.

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STORY MAK VANDRUFF | PHOTO TAYLOR BACON

Long Time in the Making Fitzpatrick celebrates receiving Orr Award Scholarship

ugust Fitzpatrick’s desire to be a veterinarian came from his grandfather, who had owned a practice on his Wisconsin farm. Fitzpatrick followed in his grandfather’s footsteps, who graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1961, and came to Stillwater. Fitzpatrick, a senior veterinary student at OSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine, was awarded the Dean Harry W. Orr Memorial Award Scholarship for 2023. The Orr Award Scholarship is for the top-ranking third-year veterinary student. Fitzpatrick said receiving this scholarship was an honor. “In my class, there are so many incredible students and smart people,” Fitzpatrick said. “It’s a group that’s going to make pretty awesome veterinarians. To be given this award among that group is a humbling experience.” Fitzpatrick’s first three years at OSU mainly consisted of classroom learning with a few labs sprinkled through. His last year, however, will let him go out to do his clinical rotations.

Currently, he’s focusing full time on school but has previously worked at a small animal clinic: SAHO Animal Hospital in Owasso, Oklahoma. He said he’s learning about himself, what life is like in the real world and trying to imagine becoming a vet in just a few more months. “When he was finally accepted into veterinary school, I had never been more proud of an individual doing everything possible to make his dream come true,” said Dr. Bryan Spriggs, Fitzpatrick’s supervisor at SAHO. “He is very deserving of this award. He will be an exceptional veterinarian.” As for his future dreams, Fitzpatrick wants to be the vet people go to for their dogs and cats. He’s interested in surgery and internal medicine but wants to apply those things in a smaller setting. “I want to be able to help everyday people with their questions, concerns and fears they have about their animal,” Fitzpatrick said. “I want to be able to put their mind at ease and treat a wide breadth of things. I want to be a jack of all trades in the small animal world.”

After graduating from Colorado State University with an undergraduate degree in zoology, Fitzpatrick met his now-wife, Angela Zanotti, who is from Oklahoma. He said it worked perfectly for him to move closer to her and come to OSU for his graduate degree. Now that he has the Orr Award, Fitzpatrick said the financial burden of college has lowered. “To have people donate money to the vet school is truly a blessing because I think it helps us vet students more than they realize,” Fitzpatrick said. Fitzpatrick dedicates his success to his family, friends and other vet students. He said they were all hugely supportive of him trying to get into vet school and even more so throughout his time at OSU. “Studying can be a team sport sometimes to try and get through all these hard tests,” Fitzpatrick said. “So, you know, it’s never just a one-person thing. I’ve been thankful for all the people that have supported me. As I chase this dream, it’s been a long-time thing in the making.”

“In my class, there are so many incredible students and smart people. It’s a group that’s going to make pretty awesome veterinarians. To be given this award among that group is a humbling experience.” AUGUST FITZPATRICK, 2023 DEAN HARRY W. ORR MEMORIAL AWARD SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENT

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 13

CVM Welcomes Largest Class

109 students earned their gray coats this fall

his past August, Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine made history. With 109 students, the class of 2027 is the largest the college has ever had. As the students prepared for their first year of veterinary school, OSU CVM faculty and staff hosted orientation, which is designed to welcome first-year students by building relationships with their classmates and getting to know faculty and staff. “Orientation excites me more than anything when preparing to welcome a new class not only because I get to meet them, but I also get to watch the students interact with each other,” said Chasity Srader, OSU CVM prospective student coordinator. For many of the students, being accepted into vet school was the culmination of years of dedication and hard work, and the start of a dream that could finally be put into action. “I was instantly attracted to becoming a vet student and attending OSU CVM,” said Carly Clark, a first-year student. “The day decisions were sent

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out about who got in and who didn’t was one of the longest days of my life.” For Clark, simply seeing the word, “congratulations,” sent a wave of relief after some intense adrenaline. On the other hand, not all students imagined they would be where they are today. “I wanted to be an accountant up until I got a job as a veterinary technician assistant in high school,” said Robert Grein, first-year student and class president. “I got a glimpse into the veterinary medicine industry, absolutely loved it, and realized I wanted to be a veterinarian.” Many first-year students dream of where they see themselves after veterinary school, with high hopes the education they are receiving will lead them to it. “I was probably just as excited, or more excited, at the idea of becoming an Oklahoma State Cowboy than I was becoming a veterinary student,” said Wyatt Weber, a first-year student. “Now that I am here, I would absolutely love to someday practice solely large animal medicine,

STORY BAILEY WHITE | PHOTOS TAYLOR BACON AND GENESEE PHOTO SYSTEMS

focusing on reproductive management and technologies.” OSU’s welcoming atmosphere can be encouraging to students aiming to pursue education and career-related goals. “I chose OSU CVM because everyone made me feel so welcomed,” Grein said. One aspect of student orientation that was intended to help students feel welcome was small group activities. “We did activities such as: a group juggle, paper towel competition, marshmallow structure, and a large group activity called, ‘telephone charades,’ which was a huge hit,” Srader said. While entering veterinary school is an exciting time, it can also present many obstacles. Learning how to prioritize school while also making time for personal activities can be very challenging. “The most difficult part is making sure my health and well-being are taken care of to prevent burnout,” Clark said. “Every veterinary student can tell you about the intense work and sacrifices it takes to succeed in veterinary school, but I am extremely thankful that I have the opportunity to pursue this career.”

Navigating the stress of veterinary school can be very difficult, however, having a support system makes it so much easier. Building relationships with peers and mentors during veterinary school can be a huge asset to not only their personal lives but also their professional lives. “Things are going to seem stressful and very tough, but give yourself some grace and utilize the people that are there to help,” Srader said. As faculty and staff welcomed in the largest class of the school’s 75-year history, they remain focused on providing the same quality education the CVM is known for, while continuing to find new, innovative teaching methods to improve students’ experiences.

Above: Students get to know each other at orientation. Below: Incoming student Alejandro Velazquez participates in the group activity.

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MAKING THEIR MARK T FEMALE

VETERINARIANS HAVE EARNED

THEIR PLACE OVER OSU’S 75-YEAR HISTORY OF CVM

here was a common sight as the first class of veterinarians graduated from the Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College School of Veterinary Medicine in 1951. There were 26 members. All were men. The first woman to earn her DVM from OAMC wouldn’t come until four years later: Dr. June Iben in 1955. Gradually, as society changed, more women pursued their degree and entered the veterinary profession. In the class of 1990, female students outnumbered male students for the first time in the college’s four-decade history with 34 women and 31 men. Today, women represent the larger percentage of veterinary students in the now Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine. In the most recent class, 95 students are women compared to 14 male students. As more and more women pursue careers in veterinary medicine, Vet Cetera magazine looks back on the steps it took to get here.

CHANGING STIGMAS Dr. Becky Brewer, class of 1984, was one of 22 women in her class of 64 students. While the representation in the CVM had gotten better,

STORY AND PHOTOS TAYLOR BACON

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 17

“BEING A WOMAN IN VETERINARY MEDICINE IS EXCITING. HISTORICALLY, VETERINARY MEDICINE HAS BEEN A MAJORITY WHITE MALE PROFESSION, SO IT IS EXCITING TO BE AN AFRICAN AMERICAN FEMALE PURSUING THIS CAREER.” BRIE SHILLINGFORD, FOURTH-YEAR CVM STUDENT

there were still people in the industry who hadn’t changed with the times. During her time at OSU, there was a hospital client who didn’t allow women on his cattle ranch. Brewer looked to change that. “I was doing my handoff to the staff before I headed home and he called,” Brewer said. “I begged them, ‘Let me go and let me take female students.’ We went out there and he didn’t kick us off the property. “I don’t know if he ever let women come again, but it was a great experience.” Throughout her career, Brewer never let being a female veterinarian stop her from accomplishing what she wanted. She went on to be the first female state veterinarian for Oklahoma and paved the way for female veterinarians after her. One of those women is Dr. Rosslyn Biggs, the second woman in her family to earn an OSU DVM. Biggs grew up in Chickasha, Oklahoma, where Brewer owned a mixed animal practice. With inspiration from women like her mother, Dr. Margaret “Peggy” Clark, and Brewer, Biggs decided early in her childhood she wanted to be a veterinarian.

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“I find the veterinary profession inspiring and the DVM degree gives such a versatile path,” said Biggs, director of continuing education and assistant clinical professor. “You can truly make it what you want it to be. I am proud to hopefully improve the lives of people and their animals each day in some small way.” While women entering the veterinary medical field has become more common, they are still the minority in some practice areas. “In food animal medicine, we are still a minority but rapidly growing,” said Dr. Meredyth Jones, professor of food animal medicine. “I have always been proud to be a food animal veterinarian and through a solid educational background and the mentorship of many amazing women, I have found food animal medicine to be a great fit for me as a woman.” Jones was asked by several students if she’s had challenges working with food animal clients. Her approach is to bring her best to every client. “I show them I care about what they need and then show them what I am capable of doing to serve them,” Jones said. “Even if they were a bit uneasy

initially working with a woman, they can’t really argue with results.”

INSPIRING STUDENTS Even though women are more commonly entering fields that involve science, technology, engineering and math, there are still many roadblocks women in STEM face. This was true for Dr. Jennifer Rudd, assistant professor of veterinary pathobiology. She recalled a time she was struggling in her middle school math class. Rudd’s teacher told her parents she just wasn’t cut out for it and wasn’t good at math. Rudd said most young girls think they are “bad at math” before they turn 9. By age 12, girls are already less interested in STEM. Even Rudd wasn’t sure she wanted to be a veterinarian until relatively late in college. “I knew I liked math and science but was considering engineering or human medicine,” she said. “Ultimately, it was my family support and my love for One Health that encouraged me to become a veterinarian.” For Rudd, veterinary medicine is the perfect blend of her passions — animals,

science and human connection. While her journey hasn’t come without its own unique challenges, she is proud of where she is today. “I am so proud to be a woman in science, research, academia and veterinary medicine. Not only that, but a woman in STEM with a career and three amazing young kids,” she said. “It’s not always pretty, but I hope I can be an example for my students of how women can do anything they set their minds to and find joy in their purpose.” Faculty members like Biggs, Jones and Rudd are inspiring the next generation of female veterinarians within the CVM. Brie Shillingford is a fourth-year student from Tulsa. Growing up, her family always allowed her to follow her dreams and encouraged her to pursue her passions. From an early age, she knew her love for animals would play a major role in her life but wasn’t sure what that may look like. She began working at a veterinary clinic after college and discovered her passion for veterinary medicine. After five years of working at the clinic and a few years after the birth of her son, Shillingford set her mind and heart to follow her dream of becoming a veterinarian, a dream she always thought was just out of reach. “Being a woman in veterinary medicine is exciting,” Shillingford said. “Historically, veterinary medicine has been a majority white male profession, so it is exciting to be an African American female pursuing this career.” As Shillingford gets closer to achieving this dream, she said it is important to her to set an example for her son and others who look like her. “I am proud to be following my dreams, despite the hardships and proud to be an example of compassion, perseverance, diversity and intelligence,” she said. Becky Garcia, a fourth-year student from El Paso, Texas, said she is honored to stand alongside like-minded people who have dedicated their lives to the health and well-being of their patients. “I am proud to be a woman in veterinary medicine because I have been given the opportunity to make a difference in my community,” Garcia

said. “We as veterinarians are the voice of our patients. From aiding in the prevention of outbreaks in a herd to being the reason a little girl gets to take her best friend home happy and healthy, I’m proud to know I can make a difference.”

PAVING THE WAY Although veterinary medicine has made leaps and bounds since Brewer’s difficult cattle client who wouldn’t allow women on his ranch, there are still challenges ahead. “Just about every woman I know can share a story of a time they felt less than because of their gender,” Rudd said. “While we are resilient, we have to change this for our daughters.”

Rudd said this degree opens the door for countless opportunities and advised young women to follow their dreams. “Pursue your passions and don’t waste them,” Rudd said. “If there’s no precedent for what that looks like, then be the first.” Likewise, Jones has never let anyone discourage her from pursuing her passions and advises the same for young women in the field. “Don’t go into this profession focused on the way people may judge you whether it’s for being a woman, being young or any other way you may feel you’ll be judged,” Jones said. “Train hard, focus on what people need, shake their hand and do good work. Everything will work itself out from there.”

“JUST ABOUT EVERY WOMAN I KNOW CAN SHARE A STORY OF A TIME THEY FELT LESS THAN BECAUSE OF THEIR GENDER. WHILE WE ARE RESILIENT, WE HAVE TO CHANGE THIS FOR OUR DAUGHTERS.” JENNIFER RUDD, OSU CVM VETERINARY PATHOBIOLOGY ASSISTANT PROFESSOR

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 19

Dr. Leticia Fanucchi meets with Amy McGovern and her dog, Daisy, during their second visit to the Behavior Service.

Paws and Progress

OSU Behavior Service looks for root causes of animals’ anxieties

magine you’re taken to an unfamiliar place, with people speaking a language you don’t understand. The lights are blinding as a gnawing anxiety consumes you. A sense of unease sets in, causing your heart to race. This is a common scenario for animals placed in a new home with humans or when your pet visits the vet. The unfamiliar places, people and lack of communication spark different behaviors such as anxiety and aggression. Some animals’ primal instincts even tell them to fight and escape. Unfortunately, these behaviors are the No. 1 cause of euthanasia in dogs and the main cause of relinquishment to shelters. At Oklahoma State University’s Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, Dr. Leticia Fanucchi, clinical assistant professor of behavior medicine, is using

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the Behavior Service to diagnose and treat behavior disorders and dispel animals’ fears, making their home safer for them and their owners. “We are not trainers, but we use specific training techniques to countercondition undesired behaviors and desensitize pets to fear-eliciting stimuli,” Fanucchi said. “... There are medical conditions that can cause behavior problems or aggravate an already existing behavior problem. Vice versa, there are behavioral disorders that can cause a medical condition.” Medical conditions like gastrointestinal disorders can lead to anxiety, potentially resulting in eating disorders like pica, which can cause bowel obstructions that require emergency surgery. But the opposite is also true. Behavior disorders like anxiety can be the underlying cause

of pica, which ends up causing a bowel obstruction. Cats may develop behavior issues, like marking or inappropriate elimination, due to sensitive urinary tracts affected by anxiety. Additionally, feline anxiety can lead to urinary blockages, necessitating emergency care. Neurological disorders, such as cognitive dysfunction, may trigger behavior problems as pets undergo cognitive decline. It’s crucial for veterinarians to identify the primary condition and implement a multifaceted treatment approach. “Sometimes animals are not being naughty because they want to misbehave. They are in pain,” Fanucchi said. “Pain is a big contributor to behavior changes. So, if they are suffering from something that we can’t tell, because we’re not investigating [the

STORY SYDNEY TRAINOR | PHOTOS TAYLOR BACON

“We are not trainers, but we use specific training techniques to counter-condition undesired behaviors and desensitize pets to fear-eliciting stimuli.” DR. LETICIA FANUCCHI, CLINICAL ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF BEHAVIOR MEDICINE root of the problem], and they show a behavior problem, we’re going to label them naughty, without knowing that we’re missing a component.” The Behavior Service is not limited to College of Veterinary Medicine students learning about behavioral issues in animals as Fanucchi also does plenty of outreach. She expanded the service and is making an impact in the community by collaborating with Stillwater Animal Welfare. In this partnership, CVM students assess shelter animals, devise and execute training protocols for these pets. Subsequently, these animals find new homes through adoption, and their new owners are offered a reduced-rate opportunity to continue treatment with Fanucchi for the next year.

“I also have a prison dog program at the Mabel Bassett Correctional Facility,” Fanucchi said. “We go there and assess dogs that come from shelters. They’re placed in the program for eight to 12 weeks — depending on the dog — we assess, diagnose, put them on a protocol, and they live in the prison with the inmates until they graduate and are adopted out.” Perry Jacob, a fourth-year OSU veterinary student from New Jersey, spent two weeks on rotation in the Behavior Service — a time that forever changed the way he interacts with his own pets. “A lot of people have dogs with undesirable behavior. They tried going to a trainer, they tried going to their veterinarian who sent them to a trainer.

Daisy, a 2-year-old mini-Schnauzer, was referred to the Behavior Service to treat her anxiety.

And it wasn’t working, because a lot of the bad behaviors were rooted in anxiety, fear, compulsive disorder, even senility,” Jacob said. In the Behavior Service, Jacob saw how animals could be treated for disorders and how crucial the clinic was to pet owners in the community. “A trainer isn’t going to be able to help that because we need medication, we need pharmacotherapy, and all these other things. So, people bring their pets here to see Dr. Fanucchi so they can get behavioral medicine,” he said. Amy McGovern sought assistance from the Behavior Service for her 2-year-old mini-Schnauzer, Daisy, due to her increased anxiety. Daisy, adopted at 8 months old and an agility competition participant, encountered travel difficulties, experiencing car sickness, appetite loss and developed floor texture aversions. “Our vet told us about [OSU’s Behavior Service] because she has anxiety and things weren’t getting fixed with what the regular vet could do,” McGovern said. Daisy then came to the Behavior Service, where a comprehensive eightweek protocol was implemented which included behavior modification, environmental enrichment, desensitization, behavior medications, pheromones and nutritional support. “She’s doing a lot better since our first appointment,” McGovern said. “We switched her medicine, switched her food and we do some exercises at home every day.” Fanucchi aims to raise awareness about pet behavior disorders and expand her service to treat more patients and other species such as birds and horses. “If we want to decrease euthanasia and the number of pets relinquished to shelters, we need to address the animal’s mental well-being. That’s what we lack in most of the institutions in academia ...” Fanucchi said. “We need more people interested in behavior to help these pets and more universities offering a behavior elective so that students have at least some opportunity to get more familiar with how to diagnose and how to treat these cases.”

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 21

PRACTICE MAKES PERFECT

NEW CLINICAL SKILLS CURRICULUM GIVES STUDENTS MORE PREPARATION

Students can study important cattle skills by using this life size teaching component.

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n 2021, Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine faculty joined together to create the clinical skills lab curriculum. The curriculum focuses on the growth of clinical reasoning, communications and technical skills necessary for the development and training of students. It will fulfill the needs of technical skills and training. After a curriculum review, faculty and staff identified areas associated with skills, knowledge and other attributes where improvements could be implemented. The clinical skills lab was crafted to cover areas such as nutrition, emergency and critical care services, exotic care, dentistry and professional care. Animal restraint and handling, suturing, gowning, gloving, spaying and neutering, blood withdrawals, ultrasound, dentistry and emergency CPR are among new curriculum pieces taught in the lab. This allows students to perform these practices before working with live animals.

STORY KINSEY REED | PHOTOS TAYLOR BACON

“I FEEL STRONGLY THAT AN INTEGRATED PROGRAM ALLOWING STUDENTS TO BUILD PRACTICE WILL ASSIST THE CVM TO PREPARE MORE CONFIDENT AND COMPETENT STUDENTS.” DR. JILL AKKERMAN, CLINICAL SKILLS LAB DIRECTOR

Students can practice a wide range of techniques by using models and simulators. They can also practice intubation on CPR models, identify surgical instruments, practice suturing techniques and simulated emergency procedures with computer simulated responses. “I feel strongly that an integrated program allowing students to build practice will assist the CVM to prepare more confident and competent students,” said Dr. Jill Akkerman, clinical skills lab director.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 23

Students practice cat restraints during their clinical skills lab class

Program implementation started in the fall of 2023 with the newly revised teaching plan. A cohesive and wellplanned course is vital to the program’s success. “It is expected that students will benefit from the exposure and practice they receive in the lab,” Akkerman said. The adoption of new models and creation of simulations will be used to increase students’ exposure to vital techniques. In addition to the lab, students can utilize a room that is open 24/7 to practice skills at their convenience. Akkerman said the significant gift from Philip Holmes, in honor of his father, Dr. Donald Holmes, helped make the clinical skills lab a reality and will be named in his honor. As described by his peers, Dr. Holmes was a pioneer with a passion for veterinary medicine. An Oklahoma native, Holmes earned his DVM in 1954. Shortly after graduating, he was drafted into the U.S. Army as a 1st Lieutenant, receiving a letter of commendation. Once stationed at

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Letterman Army Hospital, Holmes was the first veterinarian to hold the position of chief of the experimental animal laboratory. As chief, Holmes was responsible for establishing the hospital’s surgical research unit. Once discharged from the Army, Holmes received his master’s degree in veterinary pathology from OSU in 1962. Upon graduation, Holmes worked as the first lab animal veterinarian at the Federal Aviation Agency’s Civil Aeromedical Research Institute in Oklahoma City. Holmes has an extensive list of veterinarian accolades. Holmes’s son, Phillip, knew he wanted to do something in honor of his father. “After our father’s passing, the family agreed there should be a meaningful gesture benefiting the College of Veterinary Medicine in his honor,” Phillip Holmes said. Phillip expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to provide a gift such as this to OSU CVM. He said the project fit perfectly with their contribution goals given that his father

was a pioneer in the field of laboratory animal research. “The gift for the clinical skills lab is something I am very grateful for,” said Dr. Carlos Risco, dean of OSU CVM. “It has elevated the learning experience for our students and provided them with hands-on experience to help them better prepare for clinical training in their fourth year.” Phillip said it is his family’s hope that by building the new clinical skills lab, OSU CVM will become even more competitive in attracting prospective CVM students. Dedication and collaboration from faculty, staff and alumni allowed improvements for an important teaching component. The clinical skills lab curriculum will be evaluated each year to ensure the success of students. “The clinical skills lab is an important addition to the college,” said Dr. Carlos Risco, dean of the OSU CVM. “The skills our students will gain will play a vital role in their education and path to becoming practice-ready veterinarians upon graduation.”

ONLINE CONTINUING EDUCATION

+ 55 COURSES

The OSU CVM catalog hosts over 2,000 enrolled DVMs and an 89% completion rate. New courses are added frequently.

For more information, visit: https://vetmed.okstate.edu/continuing-education/ Contact: Christine Nichols, Assistant Director of Continuing Education christine.nichols@okstate.edu 405-744-7672

WHERE

PASSION PRACTICE MEETS

Dr. Rosslyn Biggs explains to a 4-H member how to assist a cow giving birth.

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STORY KINSEY REED | PHOTOS TAYLOR BACON

OSU VETERINARY MEDICINE IMPACTS OKLAHOMA 4-H’ERS WHO ATTENDED VET SCIENCE SHORT COURSE

he color of 4-H green and feeling of excitement flooded the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine as 30 Oklahoma 4-H’ers jumped at the opportunity to explore animal health. The two-day veterinary science short course hosted by Extension educators, Ferguson College of Agriculture and CVM faculty and staff on May 23-24 facilitated an environment for members to gain insight into veterinary school from current students and learn about career opportunities. “This course was very eye-opening for 4-H’ers as they were able to go through the diagnostic lab, learn about reproduction and even see what it’s like for veterinarians to go through biosecurity when visiting farms,” said Summer Leister, Payne County 4-H educator. Not only did the short course allow students to get hands-on experience, but it also provided them an opportunity to speak with seasoned veterinarians from across the state, Leister said. “The 4-H veterinary science short course exposes young leaders from across Oklahoma to opportunities in veterinary medicine and animal health,” said Dr. Rosslyn Biggs, assistant clinical professor, beef cattle Extension specialist and director of continuing education at the CVM. 4-H members spoke with current CVM students, alumni and faculty members during a panel discussion where they learned about veterinary medicine career options. “The thing that stood out the most was the variety of jobs and opportunities within veterinary medicine,” said Emma Armstrong,

4-H short course attendees practice wrapping an injured horse’s leg.

“As a senior in high school, the vet science short course allowed me to understand what I should be doing in preparation for vet school.” EMMA ARMSTRONG, PAYNE COUNTY 4-H MEMBER Payne County 4-H member. “Hearing from the panel of veterinarians was very helpful, one even stated that she spent two years in Europe doing research.” OSU alumni Drs. Yolanda Burton, Bret White, Amanda Wilson and Rocky Bigbie advocated for veterinary medicine during the short course. Each person brought knowledge from a different area, allowing students to gain perspective on a variety of career possibilities. “As a senior in high school, the vet science short course allowed me to

understand what I should be doing in preparation for vet school,” Armstrong said. The short course activities included small animal exams, calving simulations, disease outbreak simulation, animal anatomy and equine limb bandaging. Dr. Jennifer Rudd, CVM assistant professor, facilitated a disease outbreak simulation where 4-H members dressed in personal protective equipment and played the role of a veterinarian during a disease outbreak on a swine operation. Students were given symptoms the pigs were showing and the environmental factors at play. They then role-played and asked questions to determine the cause of the disease. After diagnosing it, Rudd helped students create a treatment plan. Outside of the farm simulation, Pete’s Pet Posse brought in a few members for 4-H’ers to perform routine wellness exams on live animals. With the help of veterinary students, 4-H’ers listened to a dog’s heartbeat and asked the owner questions regarding its medical history. Attendees dove into the large animal side of veterinary medicine by wrapping a horse’s leg and practicing an assisted delivery with a calving simulator. Biggs

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 27

4-H members conduct a small animal wellness exam.

covered common cattle terminology and went through the birthing process of how a calf is born. It’s common for veterinarians to assist cows in labor to ensure a safe delivery, but each delivery is different based on the calf’s position. Each 4-H member practiced safely delivering the calf and asked questions regarding birthing positions and equipment used to assist with delivery. “The idea behind this was to essentially teach the whole process from beginning to end and expose 4-Her’s to the roles that veterinarians play,” Biggs said. Armstrong expressed her excitement for the reproduction portion of the short course. 4-H members could also

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use the CVM anatomy lab, a major component of the first-year curriculum for veterinary students. Once in the lab, they were given the opportunity to dissect animal lungs, kidneys, eyeballs and hearts. Allowing 4-H’ers to utilize the lab provided insight into what they might experience as they begin their veterinary education. “My favorite part of today was going into the anatomy lab and participating in the dissections,” said Emma Irwin, Pittsburg County 4-H member. “I take a class at Kiamichi Technology Centers, and we’ve done a bunch of dissections. Being able to see what I’ve studied allowed me to actually know what I was looking at. When I get to use what I

already know, it is cool because I never thought I’d get to use it like that.” Armstrong said programs and activities offered through 4-H have allowed her to have a better understanding of the veterinary industry and what will be expected of her in school. The inaugural veterinary short course was a huge success and plans for 2024 are already underway. “The interest in the program has been extraordinary and we are hopeful it will inspire attendees to pursue veterinary medicine as a career,” Biggs said.

REUNIONS: GETTING TOGETHER CLASS OF 1968

Back: Mike Sheets, Richard Killough, Kenneth Isom Middle: Gerald O’Mealy, John Hamil, John Howarth, Dan Merkey, Michael McCreight, William Foster, Gene Frie Front: Adrienne Ruby, Gary White Tom Latta, Henry Ellen Whiteley, Roger McMillan

CLASS OF 1983

CLASS OF 1988

CLASS OF 1998

Front: Susan Thiel, Beverly Osteen, Betsy Walker, Lisa Good, Jean Graft Middle: Eddie Moore, Steve Hopkins, Kit Kampschmidt, Tad Shadid, Kenneth Kirlin, Betsy King Back: Danny Lankford, Stanley Smith, Daniel Cason, Ron Thomason, John Stein, Ron Eby

Gene Parker, Wendy Hauser, George Renison

Angela Semple, Kevin Russell, Greg Emmert, Jody Milburn, Timarie Simons

CLASS OF 2003

CLASS OF 2013

Deena Shaffer, Amber Horn, Charlotte Kin

Andrea Yakel, Catherine Morris Rita Wallis

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 29

SUSTAINED VALUE

OSU COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE COMMEMORATES THREE QUARTERS OF A CENTURY

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STORY TAYLOR BACON | PHOTOS PHIL SHOCKLEY, TAYLOR BACON AND PROVIDED

n May 2023, legislators in Oklahoma City emphasized the importance of veterinary medicine to the state of Oklahoma, echoing a similar sentiment almost eight decades before. In May 1947, then Oklahoma A&M College President Henry G. Bennett remarked that a veterinary school “answers one of the foremost educational needs in the progressive post-war college program.” Although the state wasn’t even 50 years old in 1947 and OAMC wouldn’t become Oklahoma State University until a decade later, Bennett’s remarks then hold the same weight today. Oklahoma might look different than it did 75 years ago when America was coming off the heels of World War II and the Great Depression and Dust Bowl were still a recent memory for many, but what remains the same is the state’s reliance on animals. It makes the need for healthy livestock and pets that much more crucial. Which is why a little over 75 years after the doors opened on the then-School of Veterinary Medicine on March 1, 1948, Oklahoma legislators

continued their support for the state’s lone veterinary college — one of just 33 nationwide — with the passage of House Bill 2863. The bill established the Oklahoma State University Veterinary Medicine Authority. “Oklahoma State University has long been a leader in animal health in Oklahoma,” said Rep. Kevin Wallace, a co-author of the bill with Sen. Chris Kidd. “This bill will provide the college with the support it needs to educate a critical veterinary workforce and build a solid and long-lasting future for the College of Veterinary Medicine. “Families and the state’s agricultural producers will benefit as more highly qualified veterinarians graduate from the program, bringing their expertise and in-demand skills to communities across the state.”

HUMBLE BEGINNINGS When Bennett announced the opening of the College of Veterinary Medicine 75 years ago, it gave credence to a program that had been working

behind the scenes for almost 30 years prior. OSU’s veterinary program began in 1913, a little more than two decades after the university’s founding in 1890. Yet, because of a lack of funding and low turnout from students, the program struggled for years until leadership like Bennett began to see the importance of having a well-funded veterinary school. In the first book of OSU’s Centennial Histories Series, “A History of the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine,” Eric Williams said a study of a veterinary school’s worth to the state in 1946 would be inestimable as the death losses of cattle, sheep and swine alone was more than $5.5 million. That worth is still invaluable today to the state’s success. “I cannot overstate the importance of the College of Veterinary Medicine to our state’s agriculture industry,” Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture Blayne Arthur said. “For years, the CVM’s educational work and innovative research has resulted in Oklahoma becoming one of the

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 31

TIMELINE: 75 YEARS OF PROGRESS 1948: Oklahoma A&M College School of Veterinary Medicine opens its doors; Dr. Duane Peterson teaches the first class in gross anatomy.

1951: First class of 26 male students graduate from Oklahoma A&M School of Veterinary Medicine.

1968-69: Dr. Leroy Coggins (’57) develops the “Coggins Test,” which became the USDA official test for equine infectious anemia.

1957: The School of Veterinary Medicine becomes the College of Veterinary Medicine.

1965: First successful vaccine against anaplasmosis in cattle becomes available; research led by Drs. William Brock and Charles Pearson and Mr. Olin Kliewer at the Pawhuska Station.

1949: First new building for Vet Med was constructed.

1955: First female veterinarian graduates from Oklahoma A&M – Dr. June Iben.

1981: Construction of the Boren Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital is completed.

1986: Class of 1990 – first time that female students outnumber men in the first-year class (34:31). 1974: Break ground for the construction of the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory.

top states for animal health and medicine.” After Dr. Duane Peterson taught the first class in 1948, McElroy Hall was built the following year to be the home for the CVM. Student classes started out small with 26 in the first graduating class, and as a product of the time, were all men. The first female OSU veterinary student wouldn’t come until a few years later with Dr. June Iben. Today’s classes now hover around the century mark with women making up the majority. With the growth of the school and the influx of more students, the work of those veterinarians began to make news around the state and region, quickly making veterinarians looking for employment choose OSU. “Not only did the program help provide a new generation of veterinary

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1993: Dr. Robert Whitney (’59) appointed as Deputy Surgeon General of the United States.

1998: Willard Sparks Beef Research Center is created as the CVM collaborates with OSU Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources.

1996: Equine Research Park — CVM purchases 40 acres and begins construction; Groundbreaking ceremony for the Cohn Family Shelter for Small Animals

2000: Drs. Katherine Kocan and Ed Blouin develop new vaccine for anaplasmosis; Petri, first in-vitro fertilized calf at OSU, is born.

medical scientists, but its very existence also helped attract faculty and enhanced the scholarly atmosphere in which students wishing to become veterinarians were taught,” Williams wrote in his book. The CVM’s research program opened in 1953 with the Veterinary Research Institute with the Comparative Biomedical Sciences Graduate Program opening around the same time. Almost 30 years after the CVM officially opened its doors, the Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory became the CVM’s arm to serve producers and animal owners around the state, which it has been doing since 1975. The CVM’s newest building, the Roger J. Panciera Education Center, named after the prominent CVM

2010: Started Shelter Animal Medicine program to give junior students more hands-on experience. 2004: Name changes from College of Veterinary Medicine to Center for Veterinary Health Sciences.

2009: National Center for Veterinary Parasitology launches, the brainchild of Susan Little, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVM (Parasit.) and KrullEwing Endowed Chair in Veterinary Parasitology.

2019: Memorandum of Understanding with Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University brings two faculty members from India to OSU, sends six students and two faculty members from OSU to India, and brings seven students from India to OSU; OSU Center for Veterinary Health Sciences renamed OSU College of Veterinary Medicine; CVM announces the new classroom building will be named the Roger J. Panciera Education Center. 2015: Gaylord Center for Excellence in Equine Health opens; Academic Center Faculty Office Building dedicated.

2013: Establish the OSU Animal Relief Fund to treat 60 animal tornado victims (22 dogs, 15 cats, 11 horses, four woodpeckers, two guinea pigs, two birds, one donkey, one potbellied pig, one turtle and one chicken); 460+ donors gave nearly $170,000.

alumnus and faculty member, opened in 2021, showing the school’s dedication to remain at the forefront of veterinary medicine, something that seemed unattainable in 1913.

RESEARCH RULES OSU CVM couldn’t have made the same impact if it weren’t for its researchers. Yes, it’s common to see graduates in veterinary clinics throughout the state in rural and urban areas, its hospital — opened in 1981 — aids clients in real time, but its researchers help those beyond the region and even internationally. In 1965, the first successful vaccine against anaplasmosis in cattle became

2018: Groundbreaking ceremony for the new classroom building,

2021: For the first time in the college’s history, classrooms for years 1-3 are housed in the same building with the completion of the Roger J. Panciera Education Center; The college forms a partnership with the University of Nantes in France.

2020: The Oklahoma Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory becomes certified by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services to run the tests for COVID-19; The college introduces online professional development courses; The college launches the first phase of its Integrated Beef Cattle Program; College launches the Institute for Translational and Emerging Research in Advanced Comparative Therapy.

2023:

Oklahoma Legislature pass HB 2863 to create Oklahoma State University Veterinary Medicine Authority, securing longterm support for clinical training at the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine.

available because of research led by Drs. William Brock and Charles Pearson along with Olin Kliewer at the CVM station in Pawhuska, Oklahoma. A few years later in 1968, Dr. Leroy Coggins, a 1957 CVM alumnus, developed his eponymous test, which became the USDA official test for equine infectious anemia. The Coggins test is vital to the horse industry. Most carriers of EIA are asymptomatic, so testing helps identify carriers and prevent transmission. A negative Coggins test is required every time a horse is traveling, competing in a show or race, or any time a horse is purchased or sold. Dr. Anthony Confer, class of 1972, worked to advance Bovine Respiratory Diseases research. At the turn of the millennium, Drs. Katherine Kocan and Ed Blouin developed a new vaccine for

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 33

anaplasmosis and Petri, the first in-vitro fertilized calf at OSU, was born. All of these advancements paved the way for current OSU researchers in their studies of cancer, COVID-19 and more. “Nothing illustrated the need for an approach rooted in One Health more than the COVID-19 pandemic,” said OSU Center for Health Sciences President Johnny Stephens. “Now, more than ever, we need to secure a solid foundation for the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine to help ensure we educate the veterinarians and researchers of the future.” Dr. Kayse Shrum, OSU’s 19th president, might not have a background in veterinary medicine, but as a doctor of osteopathic medicine, she understands the connection humans and animals have. This research, known as One Health, has become one of Shrum’s largest areas of emphasis in her We Are Land-Grant strategy, released in 2022.

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Experts estimate up to 75% of new or emerging infectious diseases could come from animals. Given the increasing prevalence of zoonotic diseases, the continuation of groundbreaking research into One Health — particularly on diseases of economic importance in Oklahoma — is a key factor in securing better health outcomes for Oklahomans. “Addressing challenges in the One Health arena is a focus of the university’s larger strategy,” Shrum said. “The College of Veterinary Medicine’s success is a priority as it contributes to furthering the One Health mission in Oklahoma.” To aid in the One Health initiative, Dr. Ashish Ranjan, CVM professor, was the brainchild of the Institute for Translational and Emerging Research in Advanced Comparative Therapy. The institute leads the One Health mission of OSU by bringing together clinicians, scientists and researchers involved in fundamental discoveries,

industry and foundations together as well as hosting an annual conference that discusses the latest advancements in the field. Dr. Lee Denney, a 1978 CVM alumna who served as the speaker pro tempore in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, said the One Health initiative is vital to the state’s food animal economy. “One of our largest industries is beef cattle. Of course, we have pigs, sheep, goats, all the food animals, and keeping vigilance with these animals on foreign animal diseases coming into the state and keeping our food supply healthy is paramount to the state, and the vet school does that with their research,” Denney said. “… Then, you have to go to the small animal side of where we are in our society today with our pets. Dogs and cats, fish, birds, small rodents have become part of our families and working with that population, not only from a public health perspective to keep those animals healthy, but also from just an

animal perspective, is taking care of a member of someone’s family.”

EYE ON THE FUTURE Denney has seen the growth of the CVM over the past 50 years. She even witnessed the commemoration of Oklahoma Veterinary Medicine Week by Gov. David Boren in 1977. So, when the Legislature announced the OSUVMA in May, it showed Denney the CVM is getting the funding it needs to continue its great work. “I’m very excited about what the Legislature did for the vet school,” Denney said. “I think through the lean years, we just haven’t paid attention to what we should have as far as veterinary medicine and the plan that Dr. Shrum has for the vet school. It’s very fitting to be unveiling all these plans during our 75th anniversary.” CVM Dean Carlos Risco said he is excited about the transformational

impact the OSUVMA will have on the college. “The OSUVMA will support the hiring of new clinical faculty and enhance student training and operation of the veterinary teaching hospital,” Dr. Risco said. “This authority will allow the college to expand its efforts in order to fulfill its mission of being innovators in veterinary medical education, animal and human health.” One area OSU expanded in 2020 and will continue to grow is thanks to Dr. Rosslyn Biggs, a second-generation CVM graduate who is now director of continuing education. She established the Integrated Beef Cattle Program to aid Oklahoma’s second-largest industry and combat the rural veterinary shortage. Because many areas are without veterinary services for cattle, it reduces the chances for prosperity in the field. Biggs hopes the new program can help solve that issue. “The interest in the program has been outstanding and feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive,” Biggs said. “We are starting to

see the connections that practitioners and students are making and look forward to continued growth. “The program will lead to greater retention of new graduates in beef cattle practice and sustainable veterinary practices that provide enhanced animal health and welfare. We hope to address shortages in food supply veterinarians for years to come.” Ideas like the Integrated Beef Cattle Program are what makes the CVM so crucial to OSU’s land-grant mission as well as its staying power in the state. From the initial support up to the OSUVMA, along with every producer and client who uses the OSU veterinary hospital or sees their hometown veterinarian who is an OSU graduate, the CVM has proved its worth for 75 years and doesn’t look to stop anytime soon. “The college is positioned to see great success in the future,” Risco said. “With the continued support of OSU administration, Oklahoma legislators and generous donors, the CVM will continue to grow, reaching new heights in teaching, research and Extension.”

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 35

A group of Oklahoma State University veterinary students traveled to Chennai, India, this summer as part of an exchange program.

A New Perspective OSU veterinary students put skills to the test in India

his summer, Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine students got out of the classroom — and out of the country — by about 9,000 miles. They journeyed to Chennai, India, for four weeks at the Tamil Nadu University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences as part of an exchange program. CVM professors Dr. Lionel Dawson and Dr. Ashish Ranjan are TANUVAS graduates who helped initiate the relationship and offered connections for beginning the partnership. A visit from the Tamil Nadu minister for animal husbandry, a faculty member and the minister’s assistant helped move the idea forward with the government for India’s 10th largest state. Dawson and Ranjan involved CVM Dean Carlos Risco and senior associate dean for research and

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graduate education Dr. Jerry Malayer in the push to begin the partnership and in 2018, a five-year agreement was signed. The partnership included faculty and student exchanges for educational and research purposes. Last year, the initial agreement ended, but Dr. Risco and Malayer traveled to India to sign a renewal for another five years. In June, fourth-year OSU veterinary students traveled to Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu and home to 12 million people. On the trip, they learned a mixture of hands-on experiences and observation of veterinary techniques. “The exchange made me appreciate the resources that allow us to practice the standard of medicine we can in the U.S.,” said Alli Garcia, fourth-year veterinary student. There are many differences between how veterinarians practice medicine in the U.S.

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to those in India. This “By getting to see compared provided a great learning opportunity OSU veterinary students. the different ways for“The most challenging part was transitioning from how we practice people do things to medicine here in the U.S., to how they practice medicine there,” said Braden get similar positive Steidley, fourth-year veterinary student. “It is very different; especially in a outcomes in their teaching setting.” of the biggest benefits students education or with mayOne gain from the exchange is being exposed to a different culture, patients broadens agricultural systems and different veterinary practice situations, Malayer everyone’s said. “By getting to see the different ways horizons.” people do things to get similar positive DR. JERRY MALAYER, SENIOR ASSOCIATE DEAN FOR RESEARCH AND GRADUATE EDUCATION

outcomes in their education or with patients broadens everyone’s horizons,” Malayer said. The TANUVAS exchange places students in an environment where they

can tour facilities, see clinics, assist with cases and meet faculty in India. “We had the opportunity to visit an elephant sanctuary, which is not something I would have ever experienced here,” said Brie Shillingford, fourth-year veterinary student. The students spent time at the Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary where they saw various animals, some of which they also saw in the wild. “We went on a safari in the jungle and saw wild elephants along with other wild animals,” Steidley said. The educational aspect of the TANUVAS exchange was an important part of the students’ time in India. “I learned that medications are not readily available to everyone in the world like they are here,” Shillingford said. “India doesn’t get pain or opioid medications like we do.” The students shared some of their biggest takeaways were learning the clinical signs of distemper, the difference between theriogenology in cattle and water buffalos, animal diseases not in the U.S., the different techniques to anesthetize and capture elephants in the wild, and the cultural differences. “I hope people can recognize how this sort of activity is an important part of education,” Malayer said. “It’s not just books and lectures, it’s experiences.” Not only was the trip a learning experience, but it was also a chance to make lifelong memories. “My most memorable experience in India was getting to palpate a water buffalo on our trip up the mountain to the sheep research center,” Garcia said. “The drive itself was also beautiful and terrifying at the same time!” From elephants to sheep, the students spent considerable time with animals in India. The exchange provided students with unique veterinary experiences that enhanced their knowledge of medicine.

Fourth-year veterinary student Alli Garcia was one of the students who learned about Indian veterinary medicine on the trip.

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STORY TAYLOR BACON | PHOTOS TAYLOR BACON AND KINSEY REED

OVERCOMING OBSTACLES OSU veterinarians alleviate mare’s breathing issue, earn client’s appreciation

t can be a frightening experience for any owner when their animal is showing signs something may be wrong, especially when it is having trouble breathing. Sarah Dorman and her daughter, Anna, brought April, an 11-yearold Arabian mare, to the Oklahoma State University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital because she was coughing and flaring her nostrils during exercise. While allergy issues were not uncommon for April, her symptoms appeared more severe this time. Previously, the Dormans had a successful procedure at the OSU VMTH, so when April started experiencing symptoms, they had no doubts where they wanted her to go. “OSU is one of the best places for equine care,” she said. Dr. Dan Burba, professor of equine surgery and sports medicine, immediately got to work to determine what was wrong with April. “The first step was resting upper respiratory endoscopy, which is performed to view the upper respiratory tract of a horse that has clinical signs such as breathing issues during

exercise,” Burba said. “Dynamic endoscopy was performed to determine if the abnormality found on resting endoscopy was the cause of April’s breathing abnormal during exercise.” During an endoscopy, a camera at the end of a flexible tube is inserted into the nose to view the back of the throat. “This allows us to view the anatomy and function of the respiratory tract,” said Dr. Mike Schoonover, professor of equine surgery and sports medicine as well as large animal section chief. “In a normal horse, the epiglottis is positioned on top of the soft palate to allow normal breathing.” Burba said April’s throat was scoped at rest and during exercise. This revealed the epiglottis, the triangular flap that closes the windpipe during swallowing, was trapped under the back part of her soft palate, otherwise known as a dorsally displaced soft palate. While there are many different procedures designed to treat DDSP in horses, not all of them are effective in every situation, Schoonover said. Because April’s DDSP was consistently present and accompanied by ulceration and inflammation, the

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team recommended a staphylectomy. A staphylectomy is a surgical procedure to remove a small part of the soft palate. While the Dormans said they were a bit apprehensive about April undergoing surgery, they knew she was in good hands with the OSU veterinarians. Not only does OSU have equine surgeons who are well-equipped to handle complex issues, but they are also training the next generation of equine surgeons alongside them. Surgical residents Dr. David Wallace and Dr. Nick Lani were integral in performing the resting endoscopy and instrumenting April for the dynamic endoscopy, Schoonover said. Wallace

“We trimmed approximately five millimeters of soft palate from the back edge. No sutures were placed in the soft palate incision. The inner layer of the airway incision was sutured, and the remaining surgical incision was left to heal by second intention.” DR. MIKE SCHOONOVER, PROFESSOR OF EQUINE SURGERY AND SPORTS MEDICINE

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then performed the surgical procedure with Schoonover’s direct supervision and guidance. During the surgery, a skin incision was made under April’s throat that entered the airway just in front of her windpipe. The back edge of the soft palate was pulled into view using surgical forceps. “We trimmed approximately five millimeters of soft palate from the back edge,” Schoonover said. “No sutures were placed in the soft palate incision. The inner layer of the airway incision was sutured, and the remaining surgical incision was left to heal by second intention.”

The teaching component OSU provides to its patients is another aspect the Dormans appreciate about coming to the VMTH. “Being in a teaching environment, they are willing to teach us as well,” Sarah said. The veterinarians on April’s case involved Anna by explaining what they saw with the scope and the process of what the surgery would entail. For Wallace and Lani, they gained valuable specialty training in the diagnosis, treatment and post-operative care of DDSP. Fourth-year veterinary students were also exposed to many elements of the case including history

taking, patient examination, diagnostic imaging, diagnosis, treatment and preand post-operative care. Much of April’s recovery was done at home, so Anna was able to watch April’s surgical wound heal as she tended to the cleaning and monitoring of the surgical area — a great learning experience for Anna. When April was brought back in for her re-check endoscopy, her epiglottis was in its normal position resting above the back edge of the soft palate. Upon evaluation of her surgical wound, they found it was healing very well. April is currently at home and back to her normal self. While Anna

continues to monitor her, she is eager to show her this spring and start competing at high-level events. The Dormans said they are grateful to all the hospital staff, from the front desk to the technicians and veterinarians. “Thank you for being patient with us and taking such good care of her,” Anna said. Sarah said she and Anna felt informed and cared about the entire way. As a mother, she is grateful to the hospital faculty and staff for helping her daughter and April get back to doing what they love.

The OSU Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital is open to the public and provides routine wellness and specialized care for small and large animals. For more information, visit vethospital.okstate.edu/ or call 405-744-7000.

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EXPANDING for EXCELLENCE Primary care service increases, benefiting students and clientele

The Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine already provides world-renowned education to veterinary students and exceptional care to clients. Now, it will be able to improve even more thanks to a recent development. In spring 2023, the OSU Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital expanded its primary care service to better serve clients and enhance the clinical education of veterinary students. Previously known as community practice, OSU VMTH was home to only two faculty general practitioners. As class sizes increased, it was apparent the service needed to expand. This expansion wouldn’t just benefit students, but current and future clientele as well. The community practice service offered general medicine care, general surgery, preventative care and dentistry. Students gained experience in those practice areas during a single 2-3

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week- rotation. After evaluation, faculty decided students would benefit from more focused rotations. “The expansion of the hospital service has been beneficial as it provides a larger general caseload,” said Dr. David Bailey, clinical assistant professor of small animal primary care. Small animal wellness, general dermatology, general medicine, general surgery and dentistry are among the services offered with the primary care expansion. This allows students to rotate through each specific service. “Each rotation has a different emphasis which translates into a more focused experience for the students

“The OSU CVM prides itself on graduating practice-ready veterinarians.” DR. THERESA RIZZI, VETERINARY PATHOBIOLOGY DEPARTMENT HEAD AND INTERIM VETERINARY CLINICAL SCIENCES DEPARTMENT HEAD

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under the guidance of their veterinary instructors,” said Dr. Theresa Rizzi, veterinary pathobiology department head and interim veterinary clinical sciences department head. Students can now dive deeper into real world cases. Bailey said learning how to balance care of diseases in older pets is a delicate responsibility. The ability to see and treat these cases has been an irreplaceable experience for students. “The OSU CVM prides itself on graduating practice-ready veterinarians,” Rizzi said. The real-world opportunities from the expansion’s increased caseload allows veterinary students to be more prepared after they finish their fourth year. Bailey said students are giving positive feedback on the services now offered. He said one of the biggest benefits is students are getting an increased hands-on experience with soft tissue surgery and dentistry. “The expanded primary care team has allowed us to increase our case load, while giving us the perspectives and knowledge from several different doctors,” said Adison Hood, a fourthyear student. “I have gained so much knowledge and confidence in myself during this rotation.” Animal dentistry is an aspect that OSU CVM students get to dive deeper into. A skill that is not easily taught, but vital to the veterinarian industry. “I am so excited to be a part of the expansion of the primary care service,” said Dr. Blake Murray, clinical assistant professor of small animal primary care. “I have a professional interest in dentistry, and I know this is both a much-needed area of care for our patients as well as a necessary learning area for our students. I look forward to providing quality dental care to the

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pets that need us and preparing our new doctors to do the same.” Since the expansion, the hospital has seen a larger variety of cases including heart disease, kidney disease, infectious diseases and cancer. Bailey said cases such as heart and kidney diseases are great learning opportunities for students, as they are common conditions many veterinarians see after graduation. The expanded general practice services have allowed veterinarians and students to diagnose and treat more cases.

The service expansion enabled the hospital to increase appointments and decrease wait times for clients. This has allowed clients and their pets to be seen by one of the experienced veterinarians in a timely manner. “Our immediate plan for the primary care service is to educate the Stillwater and OSU community of our capabilities in caring for their pets and expand our offerings to clients and veterinary patients,” Rizzi said.

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HOPSFOR HEALING OSU VET MED’S ZOOLOGICAL MEDICINE TEAM TREATS TWO KANGAROOS

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STORY AND PHOTOS BAILEY WHITE

Zoo medicine team along with Ozzie the kangaroo.

ot every animal that gets treated in Stillwater is from Oklahoma, or even North America. Oklahoma State University’s Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital zoological medicine team recently had the opportunity to learn and work with animals they don’t see every day. Since April 2022, Karen Smith has brought her kangaroos to the VMTH for care. The first patient she brought to OSU was a male red kangaroo named Rip. His most recent health concern was a dislocated hip, which left him in the care of hospital faculty and staff for eight days. “We first took him to our local vet who X-rayed him and referred us to OSU,” Smith said.

Rip presented severely lame and, after radiographs were taken, they showed he had a coxofemoral luxation. “When Rip came to us, we initially tried to replace the luxation manually with him under anesthesia, however, that was not possible,” said Dr. João Brandão, associate professor of zoological medicine and Debbie and Wayne Bell professor in veterinary clinical sciences. “Therefore, surgical repair was elected.” After recovering from surgery, Rip is back home and doing great, said zoological medicine intern Dr. Greta Doden. “The collaboration between all of the services: zoo medicine, surgery, anesthesia and ICU/critical care was the main reason for his success,” Doden said.

After seeing how Rip did in treatment, Smith decided to use OSU again when her 1.5-year-old male red kangaroo, Ozzie, had an issue in October 2023. “I first noticed something was wrong when he didn’t come to dinner like usual,” Smith said. Ozzie was lethargic, had a reduced appetite and exhibited dark-colored urine. He was hospitalized for seven days and received numerous tests. “His initial exam was unremarkable, so bloodwork was performed for further health assessment,” Doden said. “His liver values were elevated, so many other tests were performed.” Ozzie received a CT scan, ultrasound, urine and fecal testing, liver biopsy, and other blood tests including those for

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Zoo medicine team works together to hold Ozzie the kangaroo while drawing his blood.

“I was very excited when I found out we would have a kangaroo coming to the clinic. It was also a little nerveracking because I have only ever seen kangaroos in the zoo.” JULIANNE WALLACE, FOURTH-YEAR VETERINARY STUDENT

copper levels, Toxoplasma titers and other infectious disease tests. “Despite all of these diagnostics, we were unable to definitively diagnose the cause of his liver disease,” Doden said. “However, we were most suspicious of toxoplasma infection or toxin ingestion.” Toxoplasma is very common in kangaroos and causes severe illness, but is difficult to detect. Doden said Ozzie received toxoplasma treatment for many weeks and his bloodwork returned to normal a few weeks later. “He was discharged for further care at home and his owner meticulously removed any potentially toxic plants from his enclosure,” Doden said. “He has been doing great at home and has been reintroduced to his kangaroo and wallaby pen mates.” It’s not every day the zoological medicine team is given the opportunity to work with kangaroos. Therefore, Ozzie and Rip’s cases have provided a great learning experience for CVM students. With unique cases like the marsupials, students had mixed feelings going into the process of treating Ozzie and Rip. Dylan Lucich, a fourth-year veterinary student, said his first line of thinking was how exciting it would be to work with the exotic animals, but

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those thoughts were followed by many questions about kangaroo care. Lucich said since they are not like most animals you see in North America, he was wondering how one might restrain them or draw blood for their exams. He even wondered how aggressive the marsupials might be. So, preparing for Ozzie’s arrival consisted of a lot of studying. “I dove into as much research as I could about kangaroo lifestyle, husbandry and care prior to Ozzie showing up,” Lucich said. Tending to a species that isn’t common in Oklahoma can be overwhelming for students. “I was very excited when I found out we would have a kangaroo coming to the clinic,” said Julianne Wallace,

fourth-year veterinary student. “It was also a little nerve-racking because I have only ever seen kangaroos in the zoo.” Although the cases may have made the students anxious at first, most of them were eager to work with a kangaroo. “I actually requested to be on Ozzie’s case when I saw him on the schedule,” said Kaitlyn Cole, fourth-year veterinary student. “I practically begged my classmates on the rotation with me to let me be on this case because I thought it would be super interesting.” Students gained experience working with different kangaroo temperaments. “I learned that very rarely do exotic animal appointments go as planned and you must be prepared to pivot to get

done what you need to,” Cole said. “It’s very difficult to get a kangaroo to do something they don’t want to, even with all the people we had around to help.” After extensively working with both kangaroos, the zoological medicine team is happy to see both Ozzie and Rip are doing great now. “Nobody can take care of kangaroos like they do at OSU,” Smith said. “They are just the best, and their care is extraordinary.” Clients like Smith are greatly appreciated when it comes to learning new information on exotic species. Sometimes, the most unique cases are the ones that offer some of the most insightful experiences.

Greta Doden, Zoo Medicine intern, draws Ozzie’s blood.

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OPENING HEARTS AT OPEN HOUSE The Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine hosted its annual open house on Oct. 21, 2023, with hundreds of visitors exploring the field of veterinary medicine. Events at the Open House included teddy bear surgery, a parasitology showcase, a K9 demonstration from Stillwater Police Department, trick-or-treating, an anatomy showcase and a tour of the new clinical skills lab. Next year’s Open House date will be announced at vetmed.okstate.edu in 2024.

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From left: OSU CVM FFAR vet fellow Makayla Elliston and Dr. Jennifer Rudd, OSU CVM veterinary pathobiology assistant professor, observe herd health.

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From left: OSU CVM FFAR vet fellow Makayla Elliston and Dr. Jennifer Rudd, OSU CVM veterinary pathobiology assistant professor, perform a physical evaluation on a goat prior to sample collection.

Beyond the Classroom CVM student becomes first from OSU selected for national fellowship

he Foundation for Food and Agriculture Research Veterinary Student Fellowship program provides 15 students per year across the globe with hands-on research experience during a three month summer fellowship. Makayla Elliston, an Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine student, is one of the 2023 FFAR Vet Fellows — the first from OSU CVM. “It is such an honor to have been named a fellow for this prestigious organization and to be able to represent the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine,” Elliston said. The program provides students with a $10,000 stipend, allowing them to perform research and attend the 2023 Veterinary Scholars Symposium presented by the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges.

As an FFAR Vet Fellow, Elliston has been challenged to help address issues threatening animal health. She is looking for cellular changes that can provide clues to detect Johne’s disease before goats develop symptoms and spread it to other animals. “Johne’s Disease is a slowprogressing gut infection in goats that often results in death,” Elliston said. “The disease not only compromises goats’ welfare, but also reduces producers’ bottom lines. Johne’s disease is nearly impossible to diagnose before symptoms appear, by which time the infection is usually spread throughout the herd.” Elliston has been paired with Dr. Jennifer Rudd, OSU CVM veterinary pathobiology assistant professor, to serve as her mentor throughout the fellowship.

STORY ELIZABETH PERDUE | PHOTOS TAYLOR BACON

“This prestigious program is important to the development of future veterinarians who are specifically trained in addressing issues that threaten sustainable livestock production globally,” Rudd said. Elliston said she is eager for the opportunity to gain experience and research skills from Rudd in labs with veterinary and public health emphasis. “I’m excited to be a mentor for Makayla over the next year as she gains hands-on research experience addressing Johne’s Disease, which is an economically impactful disease affecting ruminant production in cattle, sheep and goats,” Rudd said. Elliston said this project will provide opportunities to see the impact veterinary research has within public health; specifically, by improving goat herd health and protecting producers’ livelihoods.

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CVM RESEARCHERS’ EFFORTS AIM TO ASSIST BOTH ANIMALS AND HUMANS

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he research at the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine covers the expanse of One Health, from the bench to the clinic. OSU’s We Are Land-Grant strategy has One Health as a pillar of the institution’s mission, aiming to use animal medical research to aid humans. CVM researchers are constantly looking to aid in that connection, as well as continue their work in serving the state by advancing animal health.

DIABETIC DIFFICULTIES Diabetes and obesity are concerns in both human and veterinary medicine across the globe. Dr. Veronique Lacombe, professor of physiological sciences and director of the CVM’s Comparative Metabolism Research Laboratory, said approximately 80 million dogs and cats in the U.S. are at increased risk for weight-related disorders such as diabetes, hypertension and cancer. In humans, diabetes afflicts 37.3 million Americans and 537 million people worldwide. The condition is characterized by high blood sugar levels over prolonged time periods and can lead to severe complications if not effectively managed. OSU researchers are hoping to better understand the different types of diabetes and ways to treat them. In type 1 diabetes, the body’s immune system attacks and destroys insulin-producing cells. Comparatively, type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance and impaired insulin secretion. Insulin is produced by the pancreas, which is part of the endocrine system and for Dr. Henrique Cheng, associate professor of physiological sciences, that area of study has always been of interest to him. “From my veterinary school days and throughout my professional career, I was always intrigued by how hormones influence various organs to regulate bodily functions,” Cheng said. “My graduate training further piqued my interest in diabetes, especially given its prevalence in our family.” Cheng’s laboratory is focused on two areas of diabetes. One is identifying hormones and natural compounds that target the pancreas and prompt insulin secretion to reduce blood sugar levels in type 2 adult diabetic patients. “In this type of diabetes, there are often problems associated with insulin secretion from pancreatic cells,” Cheng said. “We further characterize the molecular mechanism of action of these hormones and compounds, which is essential for drug development to treat the disease.”

This research has identified several hormones and natural compounds from fruits and vegetables that can stimulate insulin secretion from pancreatic cells. Many of these hormones are more commonly known for their effect in other organs where they control processes such as reproduction or bone formation. The other area Cheng’s lab is focused on is attempting to regenerate functional insulin producing cells using gene therapy and stems cells for the treatment of type 1 juvenile diabetes. “In this case, there is destruction of insulin cells by the immune system,” Cheng said. “Therefore, one aspect that needs addressed is restoration of the cell population. In our studies, we utilize pancreatic cell lines, primary cells, pancreatic islets and diabetic animal models. “We have demonstrated an animal model of type 1 diabetes can be reversed by attracting transplanted bone marrow stem cells to the diseased pancreas with homing factors.” Results showed all animals had lower blood glucose after treatment and responded to glucose tolerance tests in a similar manner as that of the control non-diabetic animals. As Cheng’s lab continues to make progress in the field of diabetes research, he is excited about the potential discoveries that lie ahead. The lab is exploring non-invasive treatment options to reduce the need for injections and frequent blood tests, making the daily lives of diabetic patients more comfortable and stress free. “Although we are not there yet, the discovery of new hormones and compounds and methods to induce insulin regeneration are bringing us closer to a cure for diabetes,” Cheng said. Cheng’s team isn’t the only CVM laboratory working to improve the lives of those with diabetes. Lacombe focuses on investigating glucose metabolism during diabetes and obesity. “Given the global epidemic of these metabolic diseases that significantly contribute to the risk of cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, our work aims to unravel the underlying pathogenic processes associated with these conditions,” Lacombe said.

STORY TAYLOR BACON | PHOTOS TAYLOR BACON AND KINSEY REED

“ALTHOUGH WE ARE NOT THERE YET, THE DISCOVERY OF NEW HORMONES AND COMPOUNDS AND METHODS TO INDUCE INSULIN REGENERATION ARE BRINGING US CLOSER TO A CURE FOR DIABETES.” DR. HENRIQUE CHENG, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR OF PHYSIOLOGICAL SCIENCES In Lacombe’s lab, researchers have demonstrated that enhanced calcium metabolism in the heart not only improved cardiac glucose metabolism but also partially mitigated diabetes. They found the heart secretes proteins which can regulate whole-body glucose homeostasis and effectively aid in managing hyperglycemia by enhancing glucose transport in diabetic patients’ tissue. “Understanding that the heart secretes proteins capable of regulating glucose levels opens new avenues to treat diabetes and its complications, such as cardiovascular diseases,” Lacombe said. Lacombe said her team is committed to developing novel metabolic therapeutic strategies for diabetic patients who are also facing respiratory illnesses. Additionally, researchers in the laboratory are exploring the development of an intranasal drug that could be administered one to two times per week to regulate diabetic patients’ blood sugar levels. “We are optimistic that the continued efforts of the Comparative Metabolism

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Research Laboratory will yield significant advancements in the field, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and a better quality of life for individuals affected by these complex health challenges,” Lacombe said.

FIXING FOALS Not all of OSU’s research takes place in a lab, as the CVM uses hands-on techniques with direct implications on the animal health industry. In the clinic, Dr. Mike Schoonover, professor of veterinary clinical sciences and equine surgery and sports medicine service chief, is evaluating the efficiency and safety of administering the antibiotic amikacin intravenously and by regional limb perfusion in neonatal foals. Schoonover was one of only three researchers on OSU’s campus to receive the 2023 OSU President’s Fellows Faculty Research Award for this project. Septicemia, a bacterial infection in the blood stream, is common in newborn foals and can result in life-threatening infections throughout the body. The joints and growth plates are common secondary sites of infection and can have severe long-term effects on the foal’s soundness. “Infection in one or more of a foal’s joint can cause permanent damage that could lead to chronic lameness and developmental orthopedic disorders,” Schoonover said.

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Once infection in a joint is diagnosed, aggressive treatment is the only way to maximize the chance of success. However, even persistent treatment is often not enough to prevent irreversible damage within the foal’s joints. Reported survival rates for these foals range from just 42% to 89%. Antimicrobials are often used in the treatment of bacterial infections, but when given systemically at the recommended dosages, they often don’t reach the joints at a high enough concentration to eliminate infection. Increasing the total dosage can also lead to negative side effects such as kidney failure. This leaves veterinarians in a dilemma as to how they adjust the systemic dose to account for a dose administered locally. “A few years ago, we had a very sick foal present to the hospital in need of both systemic and intra-articular antibiotics,” Schoonover said. “It had infection in multiple joints and antibiotics were given both intravenously and intra-articular. We questioned the safety and efficacy of the antibiotic dosage because there were no scientific studies published to help guide our dosing protocol.” This led him and his team to explore alternative foal treatment options. The team conducted a study in 2018 evaluating antibiotic delivery by intravenous and intra-articular routes. Schoonover presented these results to the veterinary profession at the annual meeting of the American Association of Equine Practitioners in Denver in 2019.

“Intravenous regional limb perfusion, or IVRLP, is a technique of local antimicrobial administration where a tourniquet is utilized to temporarily isolate the blood circulation of a limb while a relatively low dose of antimicrobial is injected directly into a vein of the limb,” Schoonover said. “Once administered, the antimicrobial remains in the limb, achieving a very high concentration until the tourniquet is removed, usually in 20 to 30 minutes, allowing normal blood circulation to resume.” IVRLP is a well-utilized technique in adult horses, but little to no previous research existed on the efficacy and safety of IVRLP in neonatal foals. Amikacin is one of many different antibiotics used to treat infection in foals and is known for its success against common orthopedic pathogens. In this study, researchers administered two IVRLP amikacin treatment protocols to eight foals and measured the blood and joint fluid concentrations of amikacin for each protocol over a 24-hour period. Data from this study are currently being analyzed and the results and conclusions will be available soon. “The goal of the study is to provide needed scientific evidence of the effectiveness and safety of concurrent intravenous and IVRLP with amikacin for the treatment and infection of neonatal foal joints,” Schoonover said. “It will also help guide future IVRLP research in foals using different medications and techniques.” The horse industry is vital to the state of Oklahoma and has a major impact on the state’s economy and many residents’ quality of life. Newborn foals within the state, nation and worldwide seek to benefit from improved treatment protocol. This research is crucial to the horse industry and animal health. “Clinical research allows us to apply our clinical knowledge and/or results of basic research to live animal patients to determine treatment efficacy and safety, and report those results to the scientific community and practicing veterinarians,” Schoonover said. “Knowing how a treatment will affect a live animal patient is critically important in the practice of evidence-based medicine.”

INTERACT Symposium Brings Attendees From Across the Globe

klahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine hosted the Institute for Translational and Emerging Research in Advanced Comparative Therapy’s research symposium July 10-11 at The McKnight Center for the Performing Arts. INTERACT embraces a One Health and One Medicine approach, aiming to speed up the implementation of diagnostic and therapeutic approaches used to address chronic diseases in human and veterinary medicine. Since its inception, INTERACT has remained committed to recruiting professionals from diverse disciplines to its platform. The One Health initiative is focused on improving the lives of all species, human and animal, through the integration of human medicine, veterinary medicine and environmental science. During the two-day event, more than 40 speakers from around the world presented on a variety of topics pertaining to One Health.

“We are grateful to our speakers and attendees for the thought-provoking and insightful conversation across the One Health sector,” said Dr. Carlos Risco, dean of OSU CVM. “We are committed to the One Health initiative and this symposium was a catalyst in furthering advancements in this area.” In-person attendance reached nearly 150 participants with more virtual attendees online. Twentythree countries were represented at the symposium. “It was an honor to host such an esteemed group of researchers from all over the world,” said Dr. Ashish Ranjan, INTERACT director. “This symposium allowed us to showcase the cutting-edge research conducted by our university researchers and initiate collaboration with other internationally renowned investigators.” The symposium hosted the renowned Soulsby Lecture delivered by Dr. David Danson, president of comparative medicine and member of the academic board, the Royal Society

of Medicine. The Soulsby Foundation aims to honor Lord Soulsby by fulfilling his wish of identifying candidates for Soulsby Fellowships who will promote and advance the principles of One Health internationally. Students were also able to share their current research and receive feedback from both U.S. and international scholars. Thirty students presented posters throughout the symposium and five postdoctoral students presented their research on stage. “The CVM will continue to collaborate with other colleges and departments to strengthen the INTERACT program,” Risco said. “I look forward to hosting more events that provide an avenue for the development of new collaborative research programs in the years to come.”

From left: Kevin Cain, Dr. Andrew Maccabe, Dean Carlos Risco, Secretary Blayne Arthur and Dr. Ashish Ranjan at the INTERACT Symposium.

STORY TAYLOR BACON | PHOTO GARY LAWSON

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Dr. Jason Anton performs a laparoscopic artificial insemination on a sheep.

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STORY ELIZABETH PERDUE | PHOTOS TAYLOR BACON

EXCELLENCE

OSU alumnus gives back to vet students through small business

or Dr. Jason Anton, it is important to give back. As a graduate of Oklahoma State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Anton continues to stay involved in the college and provides practical experience to students through his business, Ovaflo Genetics. “I have been blessed with the ability to get firsthand exposure and experience in different fields of reproductive medicine that I would not have, had those clinicians not been dedicated to preparing me for success in the future,” Anton said. After graduating from the University of Florida with a bachelor’s degree in animal science in 2008, he pursued a master’s degree in equine and bovine embryology at Clemson University in 2010. He then earned his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at OSU CVM in 2015. “I chose OSU because I felt it is in the breadbasket of what is large animal production,” Anton said. The skillset and quality of clinicians at OSU is what he was looking for to become a confident practitioner.

“There was no other place,” Anton said. He felt that going to OSU CVM was going to be advantageous for his development as a student to be better prepared when going out into practice. Anton said his experience at OSU allowed him to hit the ground running after he graduated because of the clinicians’ investment in his future, which provided him opportunities to build his skillset. After earning his DVM, Anton traveled to a small veterinary practice in northeast Georgia where he focused on embryo transfer. In just under a year, an opportunity arose for Anton to grow his experiences. So, Anton packed his bags and set forth to practice abroad in Australia. “I worked in a practice of three veterinarians,” Anton said. “We were reproductive, large animal exclusive; specifically, we dealt a lot on the cattle side, both the bull collection and semen preservation to be shipped to several different global markets.” Anton also gained knowledge in many other areas in veterinary medicine. They included collecting embryos of cows, sheep embryo

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 59

his two years practicing in Australia, Anton felt it was his time to bring his knowledge home and start his own practice. “Ovaflo was established in 2017,” Anton said. “It’s a mobile, reproductively focused, large animal practice where we focus on embryo transfer, specifically in cattle and smaller species of sheep and goats.” Anton said he started Ovaflo with realistic goals to try to build his business. “We’ve been very blessed over the past four years to build what I think is a very successful and thriving business in the way that we try to offer top-notch service and customer-catered services around Oklahoma, Kansas, Arkansas and into Texas as well,” he said. As a mobile platform, Ovaflo allows Anton to develop a program from the ground up with producers on their own land. “The program has the reproductive focus, but we make sure to address deficiencies that might be present,” Anton said. “It allows us to build some synergy between Ovaflo and the producer themselves to be able to maximize profits in the end.” As a small business owner, Anton hopes to continue to grow. He said building relationships that currently exist needs to be at the forefront of the vision of Ovaflo, while also looking at growth that will not hinder the customer-catered services that are offered. “For the future, I think [the goal] is trying to maximize the company’s reach and penetrance and add the surrounding areas and states to allow for proximity that doesn’t cause a challenge for these producers out there that we service,” Anton said. “Ovaflo can continue to fill in some gaps and be able to help on more than just the reproductive level, but the level of that allows everybody to be successful and happy in the end.” During his time at OSU, Anton found the quality of instruction and the quality of didactic teaching to be important. Dr. Lionel Dawson, OSU CVM theriogenology professor, knew Anton before he became a veterinary student and has mentored Anton ever since. Dawson met Anton when he was learning embryo transfer in cattle for a reproductive company while establishing his residency in Oklahoma. “He was one of the guys that was very aggressive and wanted to learn a lot of knowledge,” Dawson said. “He was very focused in what he wanted to do.” As a joint theriogenology professor, Dawson also teaches classes at Langston University. Anton would go with Dawson to Langston where he would participate in artificial insemination classes offered to farmers, Dawson said. They performed several laparoscopic artificial inseminations on goats at the university.

“I chose OSU

because I felt it is in the breadbasket of what is large animal production. There was no other place.”

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DR. JASON ANTON

OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE GRADUATE

The connections Anton made at OSU made him feel like he was prepared for success. “They were integral in building a strong foundation for what my success is currently and hopefully will be in the future,” Anton said. Anton said he wants to continue working with OSU to further enhance the program and provide students with practical applications of what they learn in veterinary school. Dawson appreciates the practical experience Anton provides to students. “It is important that we, as private practitioners, continue to try to lend a hand or provide resources for those students,” Anton said. “We want to provide means for them to be successful upon graduation and be some of the most competitive candidates for those jobs that are out there.” With the ability to be plugged into OSU CVM, Anton said he finds happiness, contentment and passion in coming back to Stillwater and interacting with students who are passionate about veterinary medicine by lecturing and building connections with them. “I think the ability to come in and talk to those students and interact on different hands-on electives will hopefully give them some perspective of how the skillset they are learning and the knowledge base they have translates into building a successful practice, whether that one day be on their own or with other associates,” Anton said. “Being able to still tap into the excitement of a veterinary student and looking at the opportunities they have in the future just keeps me excited about the industry, keeps me excited about the profession and the direction it’s going.”

Dr. Jason Anton grading embryos through a microscope.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 61

Dear OSU CVM Alumni and Friends, This year, the college celebrated 75 years of excellence in veterinary medicine. The Alumni Society engaged alumni by hosting a booth and/or reception at several industry conferences and meetings. New this year, we hosted an evening event at Southwest Veterinary Symposium to allow Dean Carlos Risco to discuss the veterinary medical authority and the ways it will positively impact the college. The new hospital director, Dr. Kelly Black, was introduced along with Hunter Hughes, OSU Foundation senior director of development and CVM team lead. One of the greatest challenges facing alumni in private practice is hiring new graduates. It’s our goal to help alumni engage with our current students and recent graduates. We are constantly searching for ways to help our alumni interact with and get to know our students. To help facilitate this, we created the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine Alumni Society White Coat Fund, which will be seeking alumni donors to provide funding for fourth-year students’ white coats. We hope this will provide another opportunity for our alumni to interface with our students. Alumni society executives also provided breakfast for fourth-year students in grand rounds to create another engagement opportunity and encourage them to join the Alumni Society after graduation. Over the next year, we plan to create more opportunities for alumni and students to come together and build relationships. At the annual fall alumni society meeting, alumni society secretary Dr. Rosslyn Biggs initiated discussion on a recent graduate award proposal. With funding offered from Dean Risco and agreement from class representatives on the requirements for the award, the motion passed unanimously. The first award will be presented in fall 2024.

PHOTO TAYLOR BACON

Greetings from the Alumni Society

Dr. Craig Jones

I’d like to thank the executive council — past-presidents Dr. Kim Morey and Dr. Beth Stropes, secretary and treasurer Dr. Biggs, and vice president Dr. Trey Kraft — for their hard work and willingness to sacrifice their time to create opportunities for the alumni and students to interact and aid in the advancement of our college. Our goal for the upcoming year is to be purposeful, engaging and positive as we work to grow membership within the Alumni Society and develop strong relationships between our alumni and students. Please do not hesitate to reach out to me or any member of the executive committee to learn more about opportunities to serve, contribute or attend events. Go Pokes! Craig Jones, DVM President, OSU CVM Alumni Society

Ways to Engage  Stay up-to-date with the latest alumni news: Update your information with the college at vetmed.okstate.edu/alumni/ update-info.html  Stay connected: Connect with other alumni by joining the OSU CVM Alumni Society Facebook group at facebook.com/ groups/osucvmalumnisociety  Nominate a Distinguished Alumni: Nominate deserving CVM alumni at vetmed.okstate.edu/about/alumni-awards.html

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 Donate to the Alumni Society White Coat Fund:

If you have an interest in taking an active role in CVM alumni programs, please contact Dr. Craig Jones, OSU CVM Alumni Society president, at craigjones2420@gmail.com.

HIGH HONOR

CVM NAMES THREE DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI RECIPIENTS

he Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine named Drs. Becky Brewer, Lee Denney and Jerry Ritchey its 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients. The Distinguished Alumni Award is selected and presented by the OSU CVM Alumni Society in recognition of outstanding professional and personal achievements and contributions to the enhancement of the veterinary profession. The recipients were honored at the college’s Distinguished Alumni Award Luncheon on Nov. 9, 2023.

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 63

DR. BECKY

BREWER

“We don’t frequently know whose lives we change. We can only change those within our three-foot circle, and I fully believe the way we can change the world is by impacting those in our threefoot circle.”

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DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI

Opening Doors for Female Veterinarians “We don’t frequently know whose lives we change. We can only change those within our three-foot circle, and I fully believe the way we can change the world is by impacting those in our three-foot circle,” Dr. Becky Brewer said. The reach of Brewer’s circle has extended far beyond the distance around her. In veterinary medicine alone, Brewer has touched many lives through her contributions as a private practitioner in Grady County, her service to students, along with her roles in the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, and the United States Department of Agriculture. Brewer grew up in a farm family and always had a passion for caring for animals. Whether it was rescuing cats on the side of the road or raising chickens in a small coop in town, her love for animals has always been evident. This love inspired her to pursue a path in veterinary medicine, but the road to get there certainly wasn’t easy. As a high school junior, Brewer worked for Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine graduate Dr. Ken Royce. “He talked to me a lot about OSU because he knew I wanted to go to veterinary school,” Brewer said. “He said there weren’t very many female veterinarians at the time and I really wasn’t tough enough to be a veterinarian.” Brewer set out to prove otherwise. She asked what she needed to do to show she was cut out for veterinary school. Royce told her if she could shoe her own horse and do all the work herself, he’d think she was tough enough.

STORY AND PHOTO TAYLOR BACON

“I tied up my little Palomino horse, and I did all four feet,” Brewer said. “Somebody called Ken and he came out, squatted down to look at the feet and didn’t say a word. Later, there was a newspaper article about it, and I still have that clipping hanging in my house today.” Several geographical moves and various educational experiences later, Brewer ended up in Oklahoma. At the time, she had three children and was unsure of her next step. Her desire to go to veterinary school was as strong as ever, but she never thought it would be feasible. After a lot of consideration and some encouragement from others, Brewer decided to enroll in courses and apply to veterinary school. She was accepted into the class of 1984 and has never looked back. “It was probably the most difficult thing I’ve ever done and yet the most rewarding, to go to veterinary school with three kids,” she said. Upon graduation, she and her husband moved to Chickasha, Oklahoma, and practiced in the Grady County area for 23 years. She established strong relationships with her clients and could be counted on night or day. In 2003, Brewer joined ODAFF as a staff veterinarian and in 2005 she became the first woman to serve as Oklahoma State Veterinarian. “It kind of opened the door to hire women,” Brewer said. “We had women who were working with us just as well as the males. It makes me very proud to see how far we’ve come since then.” Following her time at ODAFF, Brewer became the area veterinarian

in charge for Arkansas and later, Oklahoma. “Her seasoned and practical style impacted the veterinary profession through her ability to create and conduct a variety of detailed animal health programs, as well as inspire those she leads,” said Dr. Rosslyn Biggs, OSU CVM director of continuing education and beef cattle extension specialist. Brewer continues to serve Oklahoma and the nation in her current role as USDA incident commander where she helps protect producers from diseases that affect their ability to market their product. Brewer said in her job she tries to identify, contain and eradicate diseases that affect producers’ ability to make a living. Despite her vast experiences, she still dedicates time to CVM students by instructing laboratory aspects of livestock testing and assisting with preaccreditation courses. “It was my dream to be here,” Brewer said. “We have a really good program, really good curriculum and this amazing place we get to work because of being a land-grant college.” Brewer’s selection for the 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award shows how much of an impact she’s had on her three-foot circle. “Dr. Brewer is more than just a good veterinarian,” said Dr. Sandra Morgan, OSU CVM emeritus faculty. “She is a person who cares about others.” When Brewer was notified of her award, she was left speechless. “I am honored beyond belief to have been selected,” Brewer said. “It’s the ultimate gift to me for all I went through to get here.”

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 65

DR. LEE

DENNEY

“When people have appreciated the service you’ve rendered and of course, you’re helping the animals too, but when you’re able to fix something traumatic and return the pet to the owner, that’s what it’s all about — service.”

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DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI

A Career Steeped in Service A love for animals, admiration of great veterinarians and a passion for all things Oklahoma State University led Dr. Lee Denney to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. “As a young kid, it’s usually the love of animals that drives you toward a career that deals with animals,” Denney said. Despite her love for animals, she considered other career paths, but ultimately decided she loved OSU so much she wanted to go back to veterinary medicine. Denney was accepted into the class of 1978 where she forged strong bonds with her fellow classmates. There were 60 students in the class and only 10 of them were women. “Myself and three other women became very close,” Denney said. “My closest friend was Dr. Margaret ‘Peggy’ Clark. We studied together, we were on the same schedule, we were in the library together and when the testing window was over, we certainly had fun too.” Today, she remains close with many of her classmates even though the relationship looks different than it did in veterinary school. “It’s so much fun to see the relationship we have now compared to what was more competitive when we were actually in school.” Denney said. “It’s fun to see how everyone as grown and changed.” After graduation, Denney returned to her hometown and established a mixed animal practice. She served Cushing, Drumright and surrounding areas for over 30 years. Even after a storied career in veterinary medicine, Denney is still most proud of the

STORY AND PHOTO TAYLOR BACON

relationships she formed with her clients. “When people have appreciated the service you’ve rendered and of course, you’re helping the animals too, but when you’re able to fix something traumatic and return the pet to the owner, that’s what it’s all about — service,” Denney said. Once her children entered college, Denney ran for office and was elected to the Oklahoma House of Representatives in 2004. She was an influential leader as the speaker pro tempore as only the second woman in state history to hold the position. Denney worked with the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association to author legislation against puppy mills in Oklahoma and to preserve the practice of veterinary medicine in the state. Following her time in the Oklahoma legislature, Denney served as department head of the veterinary technology program at OSU-Oklahoma City. She used her previous experience to share practical applications and focused on a real-world approach to learning. Mentorship is also important to Denney and something she takes to heart. “The relationship itself is what’s important, so when you think you have no one else, you can talk to someone who has been through it,” Denney said. Over the years, Denney has mentored many young veterinarians and veterinary technicians. Perhaps none more so than Dr. Rosslyn Biggs. Biggs is the oldest daughter of Denney’s classmate and close friend, Clark. Sadly, Clark died in the 1995 Oklahoma City

bombing, which killed 168 people, the deadliest act of domestic terrorism in U.S. history. Just like Clark had been there for Denney when they were part of the female minority in their veterinary class, Denney was there for Biggs. Biggs knew from an early age she wanted to follow in her mother’s footsteps and become a veterinarian. Denney was there to help her achieve that goal. “When [Biggs] went to veterinary school, we were so excited about that,” Denney said. “She is a wonderful veterinarian and a wonderful person. Having her in my life enriches my life and I hope I can provide some of that in return.” Biggs was grateful for the support and knew she always had someone to lean on throughout her career, no matter the time or place. “Dr. Denney has been one of my influential mentors throughout my life,” Biggs said. “She is the epitome of what we all strive for and what can be achieved with a veterinary degree.” Denney also served as a mentor to her students in the veterinary technology program and has stayed in contact with many of them throughout their careers. “Dr. Denney serves as a role model for all veterinarians,” Biggs said. “She has played instrumental roles in influencing change in the profession, her local community, and state for decades all while balancing commitments to her faith and family. Her achievement and contributions to the OSU CVM, the veterinary profession and community are unmatched.”

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DR. JERRY

RITCHEY

“I was totally surprised when I was nominated for the Distinguished Alumni Award, it’s nothing I ever expected.”

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DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI

Representing the Spirit of OSU Imagine walking into your first job at 12 not knowing you were about to embark on the journey of a lifetime. This was the case for Dr. Jerry Ritchey, OSU CVM associate dean for academic and student affairs. When a small animal hospital in Tulsa needed help in their kennel, Ritchey jumped at the opportunity. At the time, Ritchey did not have any knowledge about veterinary medicine but that soon changed. Ritchey said his passion for veterinary medicine was ignited during that summer as he worked for Dr. John T. Gage, a CVM graduate from the class of 1971. Gage’s enthusiasm for veterinary medicine and the professionalism he exhibited led Ritchey to make a commitment to himself to become a veterinarian. In 1987, Ritchey received his Bachelor of Science in microbiology from OSU. Four years later, Ritchey graduated from OSU CVM. His passion for veterinary medicine led him to

North Carolina State University, where he completed an anatomic pathology residency. His education didn’t end there as he later received his Ph.D. in immunology from NCSU. After years of schooling, Ritchey returned to his Oklahoma roots in 1997 and has been a faculty member at OSU CVM ever since. He served as department head of veterinary pathobiology for five years and interim director of the Oklahoma Animal Disease and Diagnostic Laboratory twice. In this role, he oversees the pre-clinical veterinary curriculum, admissions, recruiting and student organizations. Ritchey has an undeniable passion for mentoring present and future veterinarians. He has mentored more than 35 master’s and doctoral students during his time at OSU. “In being a mentor, Dr. Ritchey took me under his wing to develop myself as a possible anatomic pathologist,” said Dr. Alexis Steckley, OSU CVM class of

2019. “He let me help with necropsies, go over cases and participate in research projects.” Ritchey said his most memorable accolades are those that involve recognition from students. His selection as a 2023 Distinguished Alumni Award winner is a culmination of the impact he has had on students during his time in the CVM. “I was totally surprised when I was nominated for the Distinguished Alumni Award, it’s nothing I ever expected,” Ritchey said. He said he has watched fellow alumni receive this award in the past and to be among those talented individuals is quite humbling and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. “In my mind, there is no other person that represents the spirit of OSU better than Dr. Jerry Ritchey,” said Dr. Craig Miller, an adjunct OSU CVM member. “He is the primary reason I came to OSU to begin my career.”

OF 2026 TEACHING AWARD: DR. BRIANNE TAYLOR, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR VETERINARY PATHOBIOLOGY 2023 CLASS CLASS OF 2025 TEACHING AWARD: DR. JENNIFER RUDD, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR VETERINARY PATHOBIOLOGY OF 2024 TEACHING AWARD: DR. LYNDI GILLIAM, PROFESSOR VETERINARY CLINICAL SCIENCES FACULTY, CLASS CLASS OF 2023 TEACHING AWARD: DR. BRIANNE TAYLOR, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR VETERINARY PATHOBIOLOGY 2023 REGENTS DISTINGUISHED RESEARCH AWARD: DR. FERNANDO VICOSA BAUERMANN, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR VETERINARY PATHOBIOLOGY STAFF AND 2023 REGENTS DISTINGUISHED TEACHING AWARD: DR. BRIANNE TAYLOR, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR VETERINARY PATHOBIOLOGY 2023 OKLAHOMA VETERINARY MEDICAL ASSOCIATION VETERINARIAN OF THE YEAR: DR. BILLY CLAY, CLASS OF 1970 ALUMNI VETERINARY TECHNICIAN OF THE YEAR: JUSTIN HICKS, ZOOLOGICAL MEDICINE VETERINARY ASSISTANT OF THE YEAR: AVAGAIL BRYANT, FOOD ANIMAL MEDICINE AND SURGERY AWARDS STRATTON STAFF AWARD WINNER: SUE BICKELL

STORY KINSEY REED | PHOTO PHIL SHOCKLEY

O K L A H O M A S TAT E U N I V E R S I T Y 69

IN MEMORIAM

Carl Edward Ward, DVM, died on Dec. 24, 2022, surrounded by his beloved wife and two sons, after a long battle with Alzheimer’s disease. He was 86. Ward was born at home on Sept. 20, 1936, to Fred and Artie Ward in Foyil, Oklahoma. He was the oldest of six children — Carl, Jack, Dan, Wilma, Beulah and Darryl. After high school, Ward joined the Navy and served from 1955-58. He was on the maiden voyage of the USS Saratoga as an aviation electrician’s mate 2nd class. Ward met the love of his life, David Ann Graves, in Claremore, Oklahoma, in 1959. The two were married on Nov. 23, 1961, and had three children, Debbie, Ted and Kemp. Using the GI Bill, Ward attended Oklahoma Military Academy and later transferred to Oklahoma State University, where he achieved a DVM degree in 1965. After graduation, Ward returned to Claremore to begin his 40-year veterinary career. He was hired by prominent veterinarian, Dr. J.C. Cooper, to work at Claremore Veterinary Clinic. Later when Cooper was taken ill, Ward purchased the clinic and joined forces with his close friend and classmate, Dr. Tom Carter. In the 1990s, Ward began working for the Oklahoma Horse Racing Commission as the official racetrack veterinarian for the state. He retired from this position in 2007. In addition to his veterinary career, Ward was active in the community serving as the vice president and president of the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association and president of the Rogers County Cattlemen’s Association. He was a member of the Chamber of Commerce, serving on the Agricultural Committee, and he served on First Bank’s Board of Directors. Ward and David Ann were entrepreneurs founding several companies. In 1972, Ward founded Carl Cattle Company and traveled to Italy to obtain specimens for breeding Chianina cattle. He and David Ann also owned a shoe store, restaurant, tanning salon and car wash supply business. Ward was predeceased by his daughter, Debbie Hughan. He is survived by his wife of 61 years David Ann, sons Ted (Wendi) and Kemp (Kim), nine grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and one great-great grandchild.

University and Oklahoma State University, where he obtained his DVM degree in 1961. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Margie Tarkington Hensley, and their children Dwayne, Pat, Amy and Christina. He was preceded in death by his son, Jeremy in 1990 and his beloved dogs, Jack, Roxie, Scooter and Princess. Source: Mountain Messenger Media

The Hon. Roger Glen Wells, DVM, of Hampstead, New Hampshire, died on Aug. 10, 2023, in Bar Harbor, Maine. He was 83. For more than four decades, “Doc” Wells was the owner and lead veterinarian of his successful Equine Medicine and Surgery, which operated on multiple East Coast racetracks from Maine to Florida. His was the leading veterinary practice at Rockingham Park in Salem, New Hampshire, from 1984 to its closing. Wells, born May 25, 1940, in Tulsa, was a 1958 graduate of Will Rogers High School in Tulsa and a 1965 graduate of the Oklahoma State University Veterinary Medical School. His life motto was “Fortune favors the brave.” After four years of working as a “country vet” in Vinita, Oklahoma, he started his racetrack practice in 1969 at Scarborough Downs in Maine. His racetrack practice took him to interesting and diverse places such as the Pocono Mountains, the Amish country of Pennsylvania, the Finger Lakes of New York, and Clearwater, Florida. After his retirement from active veterinary practice, Wells served for three years on the Hampstead School Board and six years in the New Hampshire House of Representatives. Wells was predeceased by his daughter, Jennifer, in 1985 and by two wives, Ann Marie in 1969 and Leslie in 2009. He is survived by two sons, Daniel Wells of New Hampshire and Nathaniel Wells of Las Vegas, and by one daughter, Hannah Miller of Groton, Massachusetts. He was a proud “papa” to his seven grandchildren, whom he described as his “best gift to the world.” Family and his many close and supportive friends were the most important thing in his life, and his was a “death well earned by a life well lived.” Source: New Hampshire Union Leader

Source: Payne Funeral Home

J. Fred Hensley, DVM, died on Aug. 17, 2023, in Punta Gorda, Florida. He was 86. He was born to Rev. Clyde Hensley and Ruth Smith Hensley in Kenova, West Virginia, in October 1936. Hensley attended Lewisburg High School, West Virginia

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Russell J. Tate Sr., DVM, of Vass North Carolina, died July 21, 2023. He was 90. Dr. Tate was born on May 16, 1933, in Blowing Rock, North Carolina, to the late Jule Welch Tate and Fannie Pearl Jaynes Tate. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his oldest son, Jule Welch Tate III,

brothers John Manson Tate and Jule Welch Tate and sisters Elsie Catherine Tate Aiken and Naomie Adora Tate Ellis. Tate graduated from Pinehurst High School in 1951. He then attended North Carolina State University graduating with a bachelor of science degree in the animal industry. He joined the United States Marine Corps where he fought in the Korean War. After honorably serving his country, he then attended NCSU once more, receiving a bachelor of science in agriculture. He furthered his education in 1961 graduating from Oklahoma State University with a DVM. Tate returned to his roots of Moore County, North Carolina, to open a private practice, Maple Lawn Animal Clinic in Vass. He later on opened a small animal practice in Sanford, North Carolina and Raeford, North Carolina. His first few years he devoted his time to both large and small animals. Dr. Keith Harrison joined Tate in partnership to then open The Animal Health Center of Southern Pines and The Animal Health Center of West End. Harrison and Tate worked together for 20 years. Tate is survived by his wife, Anthea, of 61 years; his sons, Russell Tate Jr. of Vass and John Tate and wife Melissa of Vass and daughter in law, Jamie Tate of Oak Island. He is also survived by grandchildren; Mary Dickson and husband Ryan, Sarah Tate, Noah Tate, Austin Tate, Avery Tate, Cooper Tate and Mason Tate and by great-grandchild, River Dickson. Source: Sandhills Sentinel

Georg Ann Davenport Mundis, DVM, died on May 18, 2023, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She was 86. The daughter of George Melville and Ruby Lucille (Taylor) Burke, Mundis was born in Perry, Oklahoma, on Oct. 4, 1936. Mundis graduated from Northeast High School in Oklahoma City in 1955. She started college at Oklahoma State University, where she was rodeo queen. She received a degree from East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma, and began teaching chemistry at Wynnewood and Purcell high schools in the early ’60s. In 1964, she received a scholarship from the University of New Mexico to work on a Master of Science degree. In 1965, she was accepted into the College of Veterinary Medicine at OSU. She was one of five women in a class of 48 students and was the first married woman ever accepted into OSU Veterinary School. She graduated with a DVM in 1969. She worked at Acadia Animal Clinic and the Marina Animal Clinic in the 1970s and ’80s. In 1956, she married Wilburn Lee Davenport while at OSU. They both had a love for horses and rodeo. She had two children with Wilburn Lee: Lee Ann (1957), and James Trent (1964). They divorced in 1971 and she married Joe Mundis in 1975.

Mundis was predeceased by her parents; and her brother, Larry R. Burke. She is survived by her husband, Charles J. Mundis; brother, James W. Burke and wife, Linda of Edmond, Oklahoma; sister-inlaw, Jane Burke of St. George Island, Florida; children, Lee Ann and husband, Steve Musgrove of Wynnewood, Oklahoma, James Trent and wife, Jo Elaine Davenport of Guthrie, Oklahoma; five grandchildren, Jared Steven Musgrove, Jenna Lee Musgrove Johnson, Jeromy Trent Davenport, Jadon Tanner Davenport and Jayla Grace Davenport; and four great-grandchildren. She leaves behind 17 goats, seven dogs, 17 cats, 20 chickens, 25 guineas and a husband who will take care of them all. Source: Tulsa World

Donald R. Crockett, DVM, of Grove, Oklahoma, died on Feb. 12, 2023. He was 92. Crockett was born on April 30, 1930, to John and Goldie (Threewitt) Crockett in Grove where he grew up and graduated from high school in the class of 1948. Immediately after graduation, Crockett enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and proudly served his country for four years.

Guiney had a lengthy career in veterinary medicine, practicing in Arkansas, Colorado, California and New Mexico. She will be fondly missed and long remembered. Numerous cousins are left to cherish her memories, along with special friends Lamar and Susan Robinson. Source: Hunsaker-Wooten Funeral Home

Vaughan Dee McDowell, DVM, of Rogers, Arkansas, died on Dec. 18, 2022. He was 66. He was born March 22, 1956, in Wellington, Texas, the son of D’Arcy “Jim” and June Ann (Nix) McDowell. He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister Suzie Stacy, and his brother Michael McDowell, all of Sulphur, Oklahoma. McDowell grew up in Sulphur, graduating from Sulphur High School with the class of 1974 where he made lifelong friends. Two years later, he met the love of his life, Jamie (Stidham) McDowell. They were married on Dec. 31, 1976.

After returning from the service, Crockett attended Oklahoma State University and received a DVM in 1958.

Having grown up on his family’s ranch, McDowell was drawn to veterinary medicine. In 1980, he and Jamie moved to Stillwater so he could pursue his dream of becoming a veterinarian. McDowell received his DVM in the spring of 1988.

On Aug. 18, 1957, Crockett married Patti Jo Beauchamp in Grove. Upon graduation, he joined Dr. Owen Denney and practiced in Vinita until returning to Grove in 1964 when he and Patti and opened Crockett Veterinary Clinic, which he continued to operate until 2022.

While living in Stillwater, McDowell and Jamie started a family with the birth of their oldest daughter, Chelsea DeAnn (McDowell) Rojas. They welcomed their second daughter, Kylie Dee (McDowell) Henry, following their relocation to Arkansas to open their first veterinary practice.

Crockett was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, three sisters, four brothers and three infant siblings. Left to cherish his memory, his children Sandy Robison (Sam) of Grove; Jeff Crockett (Darlene) of Grove; Todd Crockett (Elizabeth) of Grove; brother Gary Crockett of Weatherford, Texas; seven grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

After making the move to the northwest Arkansas area, McDowell and Jamie opened McDowell Animal Clinic in Bentonville where he was a dedicated member of his community who always loved the chance to support 4-H and FFA projects. Timothy Rojas, from Arizona, married Chelsea while William Henry, from Little Rock, Arkansas, married Kylie. In 2020, William (Liam) Delk Henry was born to Kylie and William. One of McDowell’s greatest pleasures was to hold his “little man” while they both took naps or shared peanut M&Ms. In 2021, he retired from providing care.

Source: Nichols Stephens Funeral and Cremation

Betty Lee Guiney, DVM, died on Oct. 26, 2022, at the Heart Hospital of New Mexico. She was 81. Guiney was born on Dec. 12, 1940, the only child of Lee Claude and Floy May (Gallaway) Reddick in Fairfax, Oklahoma. Raised in Fairfax, she graduated with the Red Devil class of 1959. After high school, Guiney attended Oklahoma State University and Kansas State University. During Guiney’s sophomore year in college, she was one of only 11 women students in the veterinary medicine program at OSU. In 1964, she graduated from OSU and was on the Presidents List of distinguished students with straight A’s. She received her DVM in 1968.

Source: Berna Funeral Homes

Ronald “Ronnie” Wayne Nida, DVM, died on Dec. 25, 2022. He was 74. His life centered on his happy marriage to Kathy, his career of veterinary medicine and his family. Nida graduated from Perry High School, Perry, Oklahoma, in 1966. He earned a DVM from Oklahoma State University in 1974. He worked for an established veterinarian in Tonkawa. Seven years later, Nida opened his own practice in Ranch Drive,

Oklahoma. and eventually moved the practice to Ponca City. Nida married and had two daughters, Rhonda Renee and Rebecca Lorene. The family lived on a farm near Marland and raised Angus cattle, exhibiting cattle across the country claiming many banners and trophies on county, state and national levels. Nida was active in the Ponca City community, serving on the board of the local animal shelter and volunteering vet services. Nida was elected to serve on the Marland school board and the school board for Frontier Schools, the first consolidated school district in Oklahoma. Nida continued his veterinary practice in Ponca City for a decade then sold the practice to begin working for the U.S. Department of Agriculture Food Safety Inspection Service (FSIS). Nida is survived by his loving wife, Kathy; brothers and sisters Barbara Summerall, Shari Goley, Annette Wertzberger, Judy Goin, Mike Nida and Carl Nida; daughters, Rhonda McCurry and Rebecca O’Kelley; stepchildren Cindy Said and John Souther; grandchildren Jackson, Anna, Jett and Cora McCurry, Aiden and Lily O’Kelley, Hayley Allen, Alyssa, Fisher and Gracie Souther, Kaitlyn, John and Joey Said. He was preceded in death by his parents, Wayne and Rita Nida; sister, Jean Rutherford and brother Bobby Nida. Source: Davis Funeral Home

Kyle Austin Rozell, DVM, died on Jan. 6, 2022 in Qualls, Oklahoma. He was 41. He was born on Nov. 1, 1980, in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Rozell spent his first five years of life running Pettit Bay Marina with the help of his mom and dad. He graduated from Tahlequah High School in 2000, lettering four years in football and baseball. After high school, Rozell attended Oral Roberts University on a baseball scholarship for one year before transferring to Northeastern State University then on to Oklahoma State University to complete his entry level DVM in 2008. Rozell owned a private practice, The Pet Clinic on Main Street, in Tahlequah from 2010-17. He was a founding member of Oklahoma Beef Consultants, which started in 2014. OBC grew quickly, and by 2017, Rozell was licensed to practice veterinary medicine in six states. He was active within his professional career and a member of numerous professional organizations over the years. Rozell is preceded in death by his grandparents, Delbert and Vera Rozell of Tahlequah. He is survived by his wife, Mandy Barnes Rozell; his children Reiner Austin and Adley Brooke; his parents, Gary, and Patti Rozell of Tahlequah; his sister and her husband, Sydney and Aaron Dorrough of Tahlequah; maternal grandparents George and Pat Royce of Wilburton, Oklahoma;

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brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Colton and Evan Barnes of Qualls; a niece, three nephews, and a host of friends and family.

legacy are numerous nieces, nephews, friends and other loving family members. Source: Rader Funeral Home

like camping and fishing and was a master gardener with gorgeous vegetable and flower gardens in his yard.

Source: Green Country Funeral Home

Guy Shain, DVM, of Wellsville, Kansas, died on June 12, 2022. He was 48. Shain was born in St. John, Kansas, on March 2, 1974, the son of Walter and Rita (Bowden) Shain. He received his DVM from Oklahoma State University in 1999. Shain was a devoted father and loving husband. He was always willing to help a friend or family member in need and his generosity knew no limits. Shain was a veterinarian and co-owner of Eudora Animal Hospital, where he was known for his strong compassion and sense of humor. He was a member of the American Veterinary Medical Association. He was a recipient of the Hunt Ball Scholarship for Outstanding Student in Equine Medicine and Surgery. Shain married Kania Kisner on April 28, 2001, in Fenton, Missouri. She survives him. Other survivors include his two daughters, Sydney Shain and Audrey Shain; his mother, Rita Shain of Gerald, Missouri, and two sisters, Nichole and Laurel. He was preceded in death by his father, Walter. Source: Warren-McElwain Mortuary and Cremation Services

Robert “Rob” Thoni, DVM, 67, of Kilgore, Texas, died on Jan. 17, 2023, surrounded by his family in Tyler, Texas. Thoni was born on June 5, 1955, in Utica, New York, to Walter and Edith Thoni. He was a member of the Midwest City High School (Oklahoma) class of 1973. Thoni attended Oklahoma State University, receiving his undergraduate degrees and completing his DVM in 1981. Thoni had his private practice in Kilgore for 37 years, caring for many beloved pets and working animals in the east Texas area. Thoni was reunited with his parents. Walter and Edith Thoni. Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Darlene Thoni of Kilgore; children, Nick Thoni and his wife Alicia of Burleson, Texas, Anna Hamer and her husband, Ryan of Indianapolis; grandchild Autumn; bonus child Anissa Comer and her husband Shannon of Doddridge, Arkansas; bonus grand-children, O’Dale and Sibbie; siblings, Carol Thoni of Oklahoma City, Bill Thoni and his wife Lori of Wichita, Kansas. Also, left to carry on his

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Robert E. “Doc” Williams, DVM, of Moline, Kansas, died on Dec. 27, 2022, in Eureka, Kansas. He was 93. Williams was born Sept. 18, 1929, in Larned, Kansas, to Ernest Lee and Dorothy Angeline (Burns) Williams. The family moved around a lot, as his dad worked for the WPA. They ended up in Elk City, Oklahoma, where Williams graduated from Elk City High School. He continued his education at Oklahoma A&M College. He graduated from the College of Veterinary Medicine in 1953. It was the third class to ever graduate from the vet school. While in college, Williams met a young lady named Beverly Hinkle. It happened to be on a double blind date when they met. His date for the evening was Beverly’s good friend, Lometa, and Beverly’s date for the evening was Roger, Williams’ friend and roommate. The twist in the story is that Williams ended up marrying Beverly and his friend Roger ended up marrying Lometa. They all stayed close, dear friends. Williams and Beverly were married Aug. 17, 1952, in Oklahoma City, one year before he graduated from the CVM. Soon after graduation, the couple packed up their car and moved to Moline, where they spent the next 69 years together, raising their two children and being a huge part of the Moline community. Williams had already purchased the vet practice of Dr. Bunyan before graduating. Doc Williams, as most knew him, would continue the practice for the next 46 years, retiring in 1999. Williams is survived by his daughter, Julianne (Curtis) Willhite of Leon, Kansas, grandchildren Nicole Williams of Dewey, Oklahoma, and Reed (Eve) Williams of Moline. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Beverly, son Jim Williams, brother Horace Lee Williams, and sister Mary Burns. Source: Rader Funeral Home

Harold Ray Spalding, DVM, died on Oct. 12, 2023. He was 80. Spalding was born July 20, 1943, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma. He was fortunate to get to spend the last two years of his life within walking distance from his daughter, Meghan, and his two grandsons, who are 8 and 11. Prior to moving to Minnesota, he lived in Alaska for over 50 years and enjoyed his veterinary career with both household pets and more unique experiences like the Iditarod sled dogs and rescued otters after the Exxon Valdez oil spill. He enjoyed the outdoor experiences that Alaska had to offer

Stephen “Steve” Travis, DVM, died Nov. 4, 2023, after a short battle with cancer. He was 62. Travis graduated from Classen High School in Oklahoma City a semester early in 1979 and enlisted in the 12th Special Forces Group of the Army Reserve. At 17, he went off to Basic Training at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, for basic training then Fort Sam Houston, Texas, for medical training, Fort Benning, Georgia, for paratroop training, and finally, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, for Special Forces Training and specialized training as a Special Forces medic. He went on to Ranger School and several specialized paratroop courses to become a jump master, to HALO (high altitude, low opening training) and high altitude, high opening training. Along the way, he enrolled at Oklahoma State University to major in a pre-veterinary course in animal husbandry and later veterinary school. He did so because he was inspired by a veterinarian who taught in the Special Medic program, who happened to be from western Oklahoma. He later worked summers for that veterinarian. At vet school, he met and married Denise Trosper, a fellow vet student. They both graduated from OSU as vets. They ended up working in Texas, Travis treating racehorses and Denise at Baylor Medical Center with a team doing medical transplantation of pig organs in humans. Travis met the MD members of her team and was attracted to human medicine. While he lived in Texas, the first Gulf War occurred. The Army asked Special Forces medics to volunteer for active duty. Travis volunteered and participated in the first Gulf War in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Iraq. He later participated in a program in northern Iraq. He also went to teach medics in places like Cambodia and Bangladesh and several tours in Korea. Tragically, Denise predeceased him in 2019, also due to cancer. He was also predeceased by his mother, Bobby Jean Kay and both sets of grandparents. Travis is survived by Malinda Daniels, his loving companion who cared for him until his death; her mother, Sharon Goode, Malinda’s brother Tim Goode (wife, Tiffany), and her sons, Michael Daniels (wife, Katy and their girls), and Tyler Daniels. He is also survived by his father, Rex Travis, his stepmother, Patricia Travis; his siblings Michael (Mike) Travis, Margaret Travis (husband, Billy Ellis), Mary Travis (companion, Dustin Selby), and Chris Travis (wife, Brandi) and Travis’ lovely, nieces and nephew, Liz Crane, Jacob Crane, Sophia Travis and Savannah Travis. Travis is also survived by his Army comrades and OUHSC Family. Source: The Oklahoman

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