The official magazine of the College of Veterinary Medicine
SERVING OUR COMMUNITIES
OKLAHOMA HONORS
CVM ALUMNA DR. LEE DENNEY WITH RURAL VETERINARY SCHOLARSHIP
The OSU College of Veterinary Medicine and its teaching hospital are vital to Oklahoma’s economy and well-being. From treating our livestock and family pets to advancing innovations that drive economic growth, the CVM touches countless lives across our state.
OSU’s land-grant mission calls us to address society’s most pressing needs, and veterinary medicine is central to that mission, particularly in Oklahoma. The college trains veterinarians who serve Oklahoma communities and bolster industries critical to our state’s economy, such as livestock and food production. As veterinarians often practice where they train, investment in the CVM is an investment in Oklahoma’s future.
Recent progress reflects this steadfast commitment, which dates back to the college’s founding over 75 years ago. Legislative support through the Oklahoma Veterinary Medicine Authority and Trust, created in 2023, has enabled us to begin improving facilities, hire additional faculty and strengthen critical programs. While these investments are steps in the right direction, there is more work to be done. The college’s aging infrastructure must be modernized to create a 21st-century teaching hospital and learning
environment. Doing so will elevate OSU as a leader in veterinary medicine, help us attract top talent and enhance services for patients statewide.
To realize this vision, we need the continued support of legislators, donors, faculty, staff and alumni. Together, we can build on our progress and ensure OSU CVM fulfills its full potential as a resource to serve Oklahomans and the Oklahoma economy.
Despite recent challenges, this journey is far from over, and the opportunities ahead are exciting. I am thankful for the ongoing support of so many alumni and friends who have given and continue to contribute so much to the college and the higher calling of veterinary medicine that brought you here. With vision, dedication and optimism, we can achieve extraordinary things for our university, our state and the patients we serve.
GO POKES!
Dr. Johnny Stephens OSU senior vice president of health affairs
8 Bull’s Remarkable Recovery
OSU veterinarians treat elite bucking bull’s leg injury, saving his life.
16
4-H Roots, Vet Dreams
4-H experiences inspire and prepare students for successful careers in veterinary medicine.
20
Achieving after Adversity
Student overcomes stroke to become a dedicated veterinary researcher.
30 Supporting Rural Communities
Through legislative funding, OSU CVM prepares scholarship recipients to become rural veterinarians, addressing critical need. 54 Cancer Research Breakthrough
Dr. Natarajan Aravindan and his team develop a promising new treatment for deadly childhood cancer.
the cover:
the Oklahoma State
INTERIM DEAN, COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE
Dr. Jerry Ritchey
PUBLIC RELATIONS AND MARKETING MANAGER
Taylor Bacon
ALUMNI AFFAIRS AND EVENTS SPECIALIST
Sharon Worrell
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF DEVELOPMENT/TEAM LEAD
Hunter Hughes
EDITOR
Jordan Bishop
ART DIRECTOR
Dave Malec
DESIGNER
Cody Giles
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Taylor Bacon, Rylee Glazier, Elizabeth Perdue, Presley Pullen, Kinsey Reed and Bailey White
PHOTOGRAPHY
Taylor Bacon, Candid Color Photography, Elizabeth Perdue, Ellie Piper, Kinsey Reed and Bailey White
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 76 years ago. Please join us at the CVM website: vetmed.okstate.edu
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 $8,292.14 for 2,800 copies/Dec. 2024. #vc2024
On
Dr. Lee Denney poses at
University Purebred Beef Center with Oklahoma Rural Veterinary Scholarship Program recipients Mandy Lawson and Will Shelby. (Photo by Ellie Piper)
NEW HIRES FACULTY
Clare Brown Assistant Professor
Andreza Conti Patara Assistant Professor, Small Animal Emergency And Critical Care
Katie Cantrell Lecturer, Shelter Medicine
Ana Costa Clinical Associate Professor, Small Animal Internal Medicine
Ariana Merari Clinical Assistant Professor, Large Animal Emergency
Kelli Beavers Clinical Assistant Professor, Theriogenology
Julia Montgomery Department Head and Professor, Veterinary Clinical Sciences
Kathryn Duncan Assistant Professor
Myriam Jimenez Assistant Professor, Food Animal Medicine
Gianluca Bini Assistant Professor, Anesthesiology
Giovana Catandi Assistant Professor, Theriogenology
Shari Kennedy Assistant Professor, Food Animal Medicine
Kelsey Walker Clinical Assistant Professor, Large Animal Emergency
Andrew Danker Senior Lab Tech, Molecular Diagnostics
Jennifer Cloud Admin Support Specialist
Brandy Bassham Lab Tech, Receiving/Necropsy
Blaine Bennett Manager, Receiving/Necropsy
Lindsey Cullen Tech, Medical Records
Carrie Denby Senior Admin Support Specialist, Ranch
Tom Grossnickle Painter II
Katee Hiatt Veterinary Technician
NEW HIRES STAFF
Jason Allen Senior Lab Tech, Histology
Christian Caputo Veterinary Assistant
Crystal Chitwood Admin Support Specialist
Landon Fisher HVAC/Mechanic I
Zoey Hash Veterinary Assistant
Callie Hughey Veterinary Assistant
Christopher Lyons Veterinary Assistant
Cait Malinoski Senior Financial Assistant
Jentry McGregor Veterinary Technician
Tim Robinson Ranch Hand
William Schoonover Veterinary Assistant
Hannah Whitworth Veterinary Assistant
PROMOTIONS FACULTY/STAFF
Taylor Bacon Public Relations and Marketing Manager
Fouad Elmayet Research Assistant Professor
Yurong Liang Research Assistant Professor
Kishore Vaddadi Research Assistant Professor
Miranda Moles Veterinary Assistant
Sarah McCormick Veterinary Assistant
Jennifer Sisk-Miley Senior Veterinary Technician
Darlene Minor Senior Lab Tech, Histology
Savannah Yonge Veterinary Assistant
Felicia Thomas Radiology Technician
Kaitlyn Voth Senior Admin Support Specialist
Chiquita Kelso Admin Support Specialist
Madison Twomey Admin Support Specialist
Donovan Trevett Large Animal Caretaker
Jacqueline Zehr Veterinary Assistant
Dustin Means Building Maintenance Mechanic II
PROMOTIONS FACULTY/ STAFF
Kelly Harrison Assistant Professor
Jennifer Wyrick Clinical Assistant Professor, Shelter Medicine
Haleigh Lann Client Services Supervisor
Akhilesh Ramachandran Professor and Associate Director of Operational Enhancements
Tanner Williams Facility Operations Specialist
Joao Brandao Professor, Zoological Medicine
Fernando Bauermann Associate Professor
Emily Kiyuna Lab Supervisor, Histology
Jeffrey Ostler Jr. Assistant Professor
Megan Williams Associate Professor
Ariel Byfield Veterinary Technician Supervisor
Angela Carter Human Resources and Business Operations Coordinator, OADDL
Michelle Leonard Medical Records Coordinator
Sara Smith Lab Supervisor, Molecular Diagnostics
‘Excited To Be Here’
OSU welcomes College of Veterinary Medicine class of 2028
This August, the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine welcomed 111 students to the class of 2028 who are fueled by a passion for learning and a commitment to animal health.
“Working with the class of 2028 through the admissions process has been a joy,” said Chasity Srader, OSU CVM prospective student coordinator.
Each student brings something special to the CVM. Through unique experiences and perspectives, they are the future of veterinary medicine, Srader said.
“From a small age, I’ve always wanted to be a veterinarian,” said Claudia Pantoja Negron, a first-year veterinary student.
Pantoja Negron is from Vega Baja — a rural town in Puerto Rico. Growing up on a farm with cattle and Paso Fino horses, Pantoja Negron’s passion for veterinary medicine was sparked early in life.
“I had the opportunity to interact with animals from a young age,” Pantoja
Negron said. “The veterinarians who took care of my horses inspired me, and later, I got to shadow them as I gathered hours for vet school. That experience shaped my career path.”
As a Puerto Rican, Pantoja Negron brings a unique perspective to the CVM. She hopes to bring her knowledge back to the island and help implement programs that provide accessible veterinary services to communities.
“In Puerto Rico, we have spay and neuter services, but low-cost vaccination programs are rare,” she said. “I’d love to use what I learn at OSU to start these kinds of programs in my community.”
Another first-year student, Elizabeth Durning, took a different path into veterinary medicine. Initially aiming to work in human medicine, she changed her direction after a summer job as a pharmacy technician.
“I grew up on a production meat turkey and cattle farm in Arkansas and had spent my entire high school career in 4-H and FFA,” Durning said. “I researched
what I needed to do to be a competitive applicant and quickly knew that veterinary medicine was for me.”
Durning said her goal is to leave the field of veterinary medicine better than she found it.
“One major area that production medicine is diving into today is the idea of One Health,” Durning said. “I hope to help with the goal of not only improving a herd’s livability but also making sure it does not negatively impact any other areas of health.”
Both Pantoja Negron and Durning exemplify the commitment and purpose found in the class of 2028, highlighting how diverse experiences come together to build a shared vision for the future of veterinary medicine.
“They are eager to learn, excited to be here and ready to continue making a difference in the CVM,” Srader said. “I cannot wait to see what they accomplish in the next four years.”
The Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine class of 2028 consists of 111 students.
Students earn their gray coats at the Class of 2028 induction ceremony.
“We showed up at the OSU teaching hospital about 4 a.m. and everyone was waiting for us, excited to help save Polar’s life.”
Chase Sterk, Sterk Bucking Bulls
Eight seconds of fame. That’s what elite bucking bulls look forward to during every event.
Polar Express is no exception as he is known for his extraordinary appearances at the National Finals Rodeo and multiple Professional Bull Riders Association events.
After wrapping up an excellent NFR in 2023, Polar Express was purchased by Jason and Chase Sterk of Sterk Bucking Bulls, located in Irene, South Dakota. The bull was going full force into 2024, but as he was bucking at a PBR event in South Carolina, he sustained an injury to his left hind leg that would put his career on hold.
Between the time he got in the chute and when they opened the gate, Polar Express injured his left hind metatarsal bone, just above the ankle. The on-site veterinarians took immediate action and decided he would need more extensive care.
“I got a phone call late that night saying we are headed your way with a bucking bull that has sustained a fracture coming out of the bucking
Polar Express offered valuable, hands-on lessons for veterinary students.
OSU veterinarians change bandages and check surgery location.
chutes; we are going to bring him straight there,” said Dr. Meredyth Jones, former Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine professor.
Because of his condition, Jones encouraged Sterk to haul Polar Express to the North Carolina State College of Veterinary Medicine. There, they would work alongside Jones to stabilize the bull’s leg to make the long drive to Oklahoma safely.
During his short stay in Raleigh, Polar Express was seen by Dr. Jennifer Halleran, assistant professor, who completed her large animal internal medicine residency at OSU. Due to her history with the OSU Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, she was knowledgeable about injured bucking bulls.
“We talked on the phone about what needed to be done and what would be the best options for transportation,” Jones said. “Dr. Halleran knew what needed to be done and what we would want.”
After X-rays and wrapping his leg in a bandage, Halleran successfully stabilized it and Polar Express was on a trailer headed to Stillwater. Awaiting his arrival, Dr. Michael Schoonover,
associate professor in equine surgery and sports medicine, and his team reviewed the radiographs that Halleran took and started a game plan.
“We showed up at the OSU teaching hospital about 4 a.m. and everyone was waiting for us, excited to help save Polar’s life,” Sterk said.
After arriving, new X-rays were taken and the rodeo athlete’s initial bandage was changed. He then spent the day resting while the team got its next steps together.
“On Monday morning, the equine surgical team had a plan and was ready to perform the surgery,” Schoonover said.
Because of the injury’s complexity and where it was sustained, it took the food animal veterinarians and the surgery and sports medicine team to get the best possible outcome.
After reviewing the radiographs, the veterinarians proceeded with a transfixing pin cast. The cast extended from the foot to the hock. Two large pins were placed in the upper, proximal part of the cannon bone.
The transfixion pin cast integrates the pins into the cast itself. This redistributes the weight away from
the leg and fracture area, allowing the bone to heal as the cast bears the weight directly.
“The goal of the pin cast was to allow the bone to heal while minimizing the risk of complications like infection at the pin sites,” Schoonover said.
After surgery, Polar Express spent many months at the teaching hospital receiving around-the-clock care to ensure his fracture was healing correctly.
Following numerous X-rays and checking the pins, they slowly began removing them. When all the pins were removed, the cast was replaced. During the healing process, Polar Express had many cast changes to ensure the fracture and the open wound were healing correctly.
The bull returned home after many months of healing to finish recovering. He is now living on the South Dakota ranch and getting stronger every day.
“After the stay at the OSU hospital, Polar came out a different bull,” Sterk said. “They spoiled him and now he loves scratches. Thank you from the bottom of my heart; the whole process was top-notch, and we can’t thank you enough.”
Polar Express recovers after surgery and learns to put weight on his injured leg.
Bad to the Bone
CVM veterinarians solve horse’s medical issues by removing loose bone piece
Imagine dealing with an injury that no one can diagnose.
This was a reality for a registered quarter horse named Zeke until he came to the Oklahoma State University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital for evaluation.
Zeke’s registered name is Bully for You. As a direct son of the legendary barrel racing champion, Bully Bullion, Zeke had the pedigree, speed and heart that led him to earn over half a million dollars in the arena.
As with many high-performing athletes, competition demands eventually took their toll, and Zeke
sustained a sesamoid injury. Although the bone injury did not immediately affect Zeke, it affected his ability to run and compete at a prominent level over time.
After his career paused due to soundness issues, Zeke’s owners sold him to their best friend, Steele Hunter. Hunter, who grew up on a ranch and is no stranger to the horse industry, was determined to give Zeke a great ranch life and rehab him from his injury.
Hunter and his family split their time between Arkansas and Arizona. The winter after Hunter bought Zeke, they went to Arizona. Once there, Hunter
took Zeke to a performance horse veterinarian who ran a series of tests, including a nuclear scintigraphy. The scan indicated that Zeke had widespread inflammation.
“During his bone scan, he lit up like a Christmas tree,” Hunter said. “The veterinarians at the time injected him to help with the soreness but it was unknown to us that he had any sort of infection.”
While in Arizona, they noticed that occasionally, Zeke would get a small swollen area on his chest that would drain fluid. At the time, veterinarians suspected it to be pigeon fever, although
Class of 2024 veterinary student Brady Gentry examines Zeke.
testing was always inconclusive. Zeke’s treatments included injections and antibiotics for soreness and chronic infections.
After returning to Arkansas, Zeke was still not back to normal. Hunter decided to bring Zeke to the OSU VMTH for another opinion.
Upon arrival, Dr. Lyndi Gilliam, equine internal medicine professor, and her team began evaluating Zeke. The horse was undergoing a routine exam when Gilliam noticed something.
“I looked at the small bump on his chest and said, ‘That shouldn’t be there, tell me about it,’” Gilliam said.
Hunter told Gilliam the small bump had been there since he bought Zeke and that sometimes it gets bigger, and sometimes it’s wet. However, no vet had investigated it other than diagnosing it as pigeon fever.
Because no one could pinpoint where Zeke’s soundness issues were coming from and since they hadn’t explored the small bump on Zeke’s chest, that was one of the first things Gilliam wanted to inspect.
Gilliam and her team aspirated the lump and found a pocket of fluid deep down because of an abscess. Gilliam stated it is not a common place for an abscess unless he had been kicked at some point.
“We treated him with antibiotics, and he would get better for a while, and then it would come back,” Gilliam said. “Any time that happens, you worry that something more serious could be going on, and you want to follow up.”
Because the abscess was not healing and subsiding completely, Gilliam knew she and her team needed to explore it further.
The challenging part was to find a way to get an X-ray of Zeke’s sternum. Unfortunately, they do not make large animal X-ray machines that easily photograph the area.
Gilliam, along with diagnostic imaging technician supervisor Cody Collum, worked hard to find a way to get accurate radiographs of Zeke’s sternum.
The X-ray results showed Zeke had osteomyelitis in his sternum. As a result of infection and unhealthy bone, a piece of the bone was dead and no longer
Steele Hunter holds Zeke while CVM students conduct an assessment.
attached and was acting as a nidus for infection to hide.
Because of this floating fragment, it would continually fester, causing him pain.
Zeke would require a rare surgery that hadn’t been done before. Removing a piece of bone in a horse’s sternum is risky. After much preparation from the OSU equine specialist team, Zeke’s bone fragment was removed, and his official road to recovery could begin.
Following surgery, Zeke required many rounds of antibiotics while he was still in the hospital. After his initial care immediately following surgery, Zeke was released to go home but would remain under care for several months. Zeke made periodic trips back to Stillwater to be seen by the OSU team to ensure he was still on his road to recovery.
“His owners were extremely committed to his recovery,” Gilliam said. “They are a veterinarian’s dream clients.”
After long-term antibiotics and follow-up care, Zeke is returning to the arena so he can do what he loves most — run. Now back in Arkansas, Hunter continues to watch Zeke closely and ensure he stays healthy during his journey back to competing.
“I absolutely think Dr. Gilliam and her team are unmatched,” Hunter said. “I know there are some good doctors out there, but it’s not just about being the smartest — it’s the combination of Dr. Gilliam’s passion, her care for the animal and the owner, and her willingness to think outside the box that makes her the best.”
Camelid Care
OSU veterinarians foster herd health and train next generation
As the alpaca industry continues to adapt and evolve, veterinarians play a vital role in ensuring the health and well-being of these woolly animals.
At the Oklahoma State University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, veterinarians are not only working to serve camelid owners but also training the next generation of food animal veterinarians.
Alpacas are part of the camelid family, which includes camels and llamas, and have many distinct traits, such as their long necks and legs. Alpacas are native to South America but can be found elsewhere now because of their wool’s popularity.
In food animal medicine, routine care for camelids is fairly similar to other livestock. Typical care includes vaccinations, foot care, dental care and parasite monitoring, along with appropriate treatment when needed. For producers, working closely with their primary veterinarian for regular on-farm monitoring of weight, body condition scores, fecal consistency, fiber quality and eyelid color is critical for early detection of herd health issues.
While routine care plans are similar to other species, some may say it is even more important in alpacas and llamas.
“They are extremely sensitive to many ailments and are very good at hiding how sick they are until it is often too late,”
said Dr. Alli Jennings, clinical assistant professor of food animal medicine and surgery. “Camelids are susceptible to many parasites and, if not addressed early, can decimate a herd.”
Jennings said in addition to camelidspecific diseases, alpacas are also susceptible to diseases of other species, such as meningeal worm infection, bovine viral diarrhea virus, alpaca fever (Streptococcus equi ssp zooepidemicus) and vector-borne diseases such as Eastern equine encephalitis and West Nile virus.
“Camelids are also very susceptible to minute changes in trace mineral profiles of forages, feeds, minerals and soil,” Jennings said. “They sink a lot
STORY TAYLOR BACON | PHOTOS BAILEY WHITE AND KINSEY REED
Veterinary students perform a physical exam on a Fleecy Friends Alpaca Ranch patient.
of minerals into fiber production, so monitoring for issues in their mineral program is also very important.”
Some of the most common issues veterinarians see in adult alpacas are gastrointestinal parasites, secondary nutritional problems, trace mineral issues, meningeal worm infestations and heat stress. Jennings said some of the most common problems in young alpacas are parasites and sepsis, or systemwide infection.
“Regular checkups with a veterinarian enable us to catch problems early that may decrease the likelihood of severe disease or stop a problem before it affects the entire herd,” Jennings said. “Many issues are interconnected, such as trace minerals and GI parasite immunity, and keeping a close watch on them can drastically improve outcomes.”
Jennings emphasized the importance of preventive care.
“Appropriate preventive care and good herd health is imperative for the overall production and quality of life of the
animals,” Jennings said. “Fertility and fiber production are directly impacted by the general health of the animal.”
For alpaca owners like Derek Smith and Julie Knox, owners of Fleecy Friends Alpaca Ranch, a close relationship with their veterinarians is vital to their herd’s health and business success.
Knox and Smith live two hours away from Stillwater but prioritize making the trip to utilize the knowledge and skills of OSU’s veterinarians.
Jennings said the Fleecy Friends Alpaca Ranch is an excellent example of how early preventative veterinary care can help prevent issues from affecting the entire herd.
Two of Knox and Smith’s alpacas, Marisol and Remington, recently had a trace mineral problem that led to decreased parasitic immunity, significant weight loss and nutritional issues.
“Through early detection and appropriate veterinary care, we were able to intervene in both individual
animals and address a problem at the herd level before it led to significant losses,” Jennings said.
Currently, OSU VMTH provides clinical veterinary care for producers statewide. Jennings said several herds utilize the teaching hospital as the primary care provider, both on an in-hospital and field service basis.
“In addition to primary care, we function as the main referral institution for many practitioners across the state and even across state lines,” Jennings said. “We serve as the primary herd veterinarian and referral center for many camelid clients across Oklahoma and beyond.”
OSU veterinarians also staff llama and alpaca shows across the state and provide on-site veterinary care at those events.
“There are not many vets that specialize in camelids,” Smith said. “This is a growing industry, so I’m always trying to promote to the students to have some knowledge in this area because, more than likely, they are going to encounter an alpaca somewhere in their career.”
Jennings said camelid owners commonly comment on the lack of veterinarians who are well-versed in camelid medicine. Faculty and staff at OSU are actively addressing this need.
“Currently, we are working with Alpacas of Oklahoma to begin building a structured camelid program consisting of wet labs, extension opportunities at shows and more clinical opportunities for the students to improve awareness, comfort and interest in our camelid species,” Jennings said.
“We are actively working with our alpaca producers, shows and associations to build a program at Oklahoma State that can provide our owners with the resources they need to care for their animals, but also to provide a solid education for our students in camelid care.”
Crias, which are baby alpacas, receive care alongside their mothers at the OSU VMTH.
MAKING BEST the BETTER
4-H background inspires students to pursue veterinary careers
Green jackets to white coats, pets to patients, childhood dreams turned into reality.
The world’s largest youth organization paved a pathway to the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine. For first-year students Ashlynn Arnold and Jaycee Watkins, as well as fourth-year student Olivia Ary, their early 4-H experiences transformed into a passion for veterinary medicine.
For the trio, there was no question they would be a part of 4-H. Enrolled as a 4-H Cloverbud from Madill, Oklahoma, Arnold was drawn to her local club to follow in her parents’ footsteps.
“They wanted me to be a part of something that would make a huge impact on my life,” Arnold said.
Originally from Highlands Ranch, Colorado, Ary’s 4-H journey began with a love for horses and grew as she discovered new projects.
“A lot of people at the barn I rode horses at were involved in 4-H,” Ary said. “I was first drawn in with the horses but then got super excited when I learned about all of the other projects available.”
For Watkins, 4-H was woven into her family history while growing up in Allen, Oklahoma. Encouraged by her grandfather, an agricultural education
teacher for over 30 years, Watkins began her 4-H journey at a young age.
“It was something I had always admired and knew I wanted to be a part of,” Watkins said.
From showing livestock and embracing the responsibilities that come with animal care, 4-H instilled invaluable life skills in each of them, preparing them for future careers in veterinary medicine. The discipline of daily feeding, grooming and training became second nature, teaching them patience, dedication and compassion.
“It is hard to narrow it down to just one skill, considering 4-H was such a huge part of my life and journey through
From left: Jaycee Watkins, Olivia Ary and Ashlynn Arnold.
my childhood,” Arnold said. “However, if I must narrow it down to one of the most important skills to me, it would be time management.”
As an active 4-H member involved in other school activities, Arnold developed strong organization and time management skills that enabled her to thrive through the busy season.
Now, in veterinary school, these skills are even more crucial.
“Being a veterinary student is different from an undergraduate, there is a lot more that you are expected to know, and trying to find a balance between school and home life can be a real challenge,” Arnold said.
She often needs to calculate study time carefully, prioritizing her weekly workload while still taking time for herself and her family.
Along with time management and organization, Ary attributes her work ethic, public speaking, professionalism and adaptability to 4-H.
“As for practice skills, the ability to communicate effectively, dress and act professionally, delegate tasks and manage my time has been invaluable,” Ary said.
Watkins discussed how her time management skills, responsibility, resilience, compassion and working with others in 4-H positively impacted her journey to vet school.
“I must admit my journey through 4-H prepared me in more ways than I realized,” Arnold said. “It gave me confidence, pushed me outside my comfort zone, encouraged me to engage with others, and showed me the impact serving others can have on people’s lives.”
She explained how these skills helped her through the interview process, networking with others and communicating with clients.
“I have discovered while working in a clinic and since being involved in the program that communication with others and networking are huge assets in the veterinary medical field. I plan to use the skills I have acquired throughout my career and life,” Arnold said.
Engaging with peers, mentors and community members helped the students build the confidence
“Never be so comfortable that you stop learning or are too afraid to fail. Life is all about continuing to experience new things and growing into new skills. Things won’t always go your way, and that is OK. No one in this field is expecting you to be perfect. Show up, work hard, and enjoy where you are.”
Olivia Ary, FOURTH-YEAR VETERINARY STUDENT
and empathy required for veterinary practice.
“I think the most rewarding thing I am starting to see now is the impact that veterinarians have on the community around them,” Ary said. “I have spent a lot of time in clinics over the past 10 years and have seen some truly incredible relationships formed.”
Ary said she has spent most of her time in equine practices, with a heavy emphasis on reproduction and sports medicine. She witnessed a horse’s journey from an embryo to showing at a futurity show and winning its first race.
“You get to see horses return from heartbreaking injuries and keep doing their job with the little kids that love them. You get to see clients who started tagging along with their parents to appointments as little kids go onto their college or professional careers in the industry,” she said.
To Ary, the 4-H motto, “to make the best better,” aligns perfectly with every aspect of veterinary practice, where fostering relationships and promoting quality takes the spotlight. She said clear thinking, greater loyalty, larger service and better living for those around you are not just words but a recipe for success in any endeavor.
While veterinary school can be grueling at times and the workdays long, these relationships and impacts make it all worthwhile. Through her experiences, Ary has seen firsthand how the foundation laid in 4-H continues to shape her approach to veterinary
medicine, where the commitment to making a difference is as rewarding as it is challenging.
As Arnold, Watkins and Ary reflect on their 4-H journey, they want to inspire other students to take a leap and dream big.
“Never be so comfortable that you stop learning or are too afraid to fail,” Ary said. “Life is all about continuing to experience new things and growing into new skills. Things won’t always go your way, and that is OK. No one in this field is expecting you to be perfect. Show up, work hard, and enjoy where you are.”
Arnold shared this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of perseverance.
“The journey may consist of early mornings, late nights and things you don’t really want to do, but don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t do it,” Arnold said. “During school, keep your head down and continue to work hard because if you work hard enough, your hard work will eventually pay off. Even on the hard days, there is a light at the end of the tunnel, and it isn’t a train coming after you.”
Watkins shared her belief in taking the leap of faith and simply starting your journey.
“Immerse yourself in every opportunity that arises, find a mentor and soak up every bit of knowledge you can,” Watkins said. “Everyone must start somewhere, and there is no better place than the 4-H program.”
Four Sixes Foray
CVM student spends externship at renowned ranch
Olivia Ary, a fourth-year Oklahoma State University veterinary student, has pursued her passion for equine medicine through numerous externships.
These hands-on experiences have strengthened her technical skills and have given her a look into the demands and rewards of large animal veterinary practice.
Ary’s journey through her externships has taken her nationwide, from Michigan to her home state of Colorado. Each placement offered valuable experiences.
However, the Four Sixes Ranch in Guthrie, Texas, presented a unique opportunity. The 260,000-acre ranch is well known in the equine world, being founded in 1870 and home to some of the most top-quality stallions in the
quarter horse industry. The ranch has recently appeared in popular culture after screenwriter and director Taylor Sheridan — of “Yellowstone” fame — bought it.
Known for its expansive lands and extensive equine operations, the ranch hosts a full-service clinic that manages everything from routine checkups to critical care.
“The Sixes ranch is unique because it’s a fully functional clinic and a working ranch,” Ary said. “You’re dealing with hundreds of horses on-site and from neighboring ranches, which means you see a variety of cases each day.”
During her externship at the Four Sixes Ranch, Ary’s days were full. Breeding season, in particular, kept the team on its toes as it conducted
checkups on mares, facilitated breeding procedures and handled emergency cases.
For Ary, this hands-on experience was invaluable, giving her the opportunity to assist with procedures, handle patient care and even make critical decisions under the supervision of experienced veterinarians.
“One of my favorite parts was working with the mares and foals during breeding season,” Ary said. “From checking the mares and deciding when they needed to be brought in, to ordering semen and managing the breeding schedule — it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of those critical decisions.”
The externship also allowed Ary to experience a high level of autonomy, as the clinic’s veterinarians trusted her and the other externs to take the lead
Olivia Ary spends time with the foals during her externship at the Four Sixes Ranch.
“All of the staff members were very encouraging and very hardworking. It’s a tough place to live, with long, hardworking days, yet everyone approaches their work full of joy and excitement to do their job.”
on various cases. Whether treating lacerations, managing respiratory illnesses, or conducting dental work on mares, she was given a sense of responsibility and support.
OLIVIA ARY, FOURTH-YEAR OSU VETERINARY STUDENT
“All of the staff members were very encouraging and very hardworking,” Ary said. “It’s a tough place to live, with long, hardworking days, yet everyone approaches their work full of joy and excitement to do their job.”
Working alongside seasoned cowboys, skilled veterinarians and fellow externs, Ary found a supportive community. The clinic staff, which included OSU alumni, were dedicated
to involving Ary in every aspect of the job and providing her with constructive feedback.
“It was really nice to have such a close-knit community on the ranch,” Ary said. “Everyone, from the clinic staff to the ranch cooks, created an environment where we all felt like part of a team.”
The Four Sixes Ranch externship solidified Ary’s desire to pursue a career in equine medicine. The externship showed her the extent of work involved, the impact veterinarians have on rural communities and the connections they build with their clients.
“People drive hours for an emergency because there are just no equine veterinarians,” Ary said. “I am going into a field that really needs it.”
With her upcoming internship at Weems and Stephens Equine Hospital in Aubrey, Texas, Ary looks forward to continuing her journey in equine medicine post-graduation, equipped with the skills and insights gained from her externships.
“I will rotate between doctors and get a really good foundation in every area under the sun,” Ary said.
Olivia Ary provides treatment to a foal during her externship.
FROM ADVERSITY TO IMPACT
JOHNSON’S JOURNEY TO VETERINARY RESEARCH
STORY AND PHOTOS BAILEY WHITE
Paige Johnson’s life completely changed about two days after her high school graduation when she had a stroke, which then led to a seizure.
She woke up one day and had no remembrance of who or where she was.
“I was just a normal high school girl on birth control but happened to be the 1 in 5 million that has a sensitivity to it,” she said.
Johnson was taken in a medevac helicopter to Arkansas Children’s Hospital in Little Rock, where the doctors began lab work and blood clotting tests. After a large blood clot was found in her brain, she was sedated to dissolve the clot.
“After five days, the blood clot had shrunk enough, so I was able to go home, but a representative approached me and asked if she could enroll me in a clinical trial,” Johnson said.
She began the clinical trial, which sparked her interest in research.
“It hit me in that moment that without pharmaceutical work and clinical trials, I would have died in the hospital at 17,” Johnson said.
Johnson’s path to research has been a testament to resilience and determination. The challenges she has faced have shaped her perspective on the importance of research.
“My story is very generic all the way from K-12,” Johnson said. “I was that kid who always wanted to be a vet.”
Fast forward a few years when she earned a prestigious honor.
The Foundation for Food and Agricultural Research annually selects 15 exceptional students from across the globe for its Veterinary Student Research Fellowship.
Johnson, an Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine second-year student, was selected for this opportunity. Johnson’s journey into research is both inspiring and exemplary, making this award a well-deserved recognition of her dedication and hard work.
“I don’t know if I can describe how much it means to me,” Johnson said. “This field is special to me, and the work I do means a lot to me personally, so having support for the work we do from
“IT WAS JUST THAT LIFECHANGING EVENT THAT YOU GO THROUGH AT SOME POINT IN YOUR LIFE WHERE ALL OF A SUDDEN YOUR WHOLE PATH AND INTERESTS CHANGE. EVERYBODY HAS SOME ADVERSE EVENT IN THEIR LIFE, BUT MY GOAL IS TO NOT LET THAT STOP ME FROM DOING WHAT I WANT TO DO.”
PAIGE JOHNSON, SECOND-YEAR VETERINARY STUDENT
an organization like FFAR is truly incredible.”
The fellowship offers students the chance to advance research aimed at enhancing global food security, sustainable animal production and environmental sustainability. Each selected student receives a $10,000 scholarship to support their research.
“Paige is uniquely gifted with the ability to understand research questions and perform experiments with high accuracy,” said Dr. Rudra Channappanavar, Johnson’s principal investigator. “Paige played a crucial role in our recent study that identified a novel sensor of a SARS-CoV-2 membrane protein.”
The project’s goal was to explore zoonosis and reverse zoonosis of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 in farm animal species.
“We want to see whether our animals like goats, sheep, cattle and pigs are susceptible to infection with SARSCoV-2 through host mechanisms, and if they are, whether they can act as a viral reservoir to infect humans,” Johnson said.
Johnson’s research on SARS-CoV-2 focuses on safeguarding the health of both humans and farm animals. Her work aims to prevent the spread of the virus and minimize its impact on livestock populations.
“The impact of SARS-CoV-2 is still being felt even after the pandemic as new strains mutate, making them capable of evading the immune system’s defenses even after vaccination,” Johnson said. “If these mutations can lead to infection in our farm animals, we need to know for both their wellbeing and our own.”
Before Johnson faced such traumatic health issues, she was only thinking about a career in veterinary medicine.
“It was just that life-changing event that you go through at some point in your life where all of a sudden your whole path and interests change,” Johnson said. “Everybody has some adverse event in their life, but my goal is to not let that stop me from doing what I want to do.”
While in veterinary school, Johnson joined the Summer Research Training Program, which allowed her to begin research within the veterinary field.
“Because of COVID, I didn’t get to do research through undergrad, so SRTP was really my first time,” Johnson said. “I was scared at first, but it was great and within a few weeks, I was already talking
to my mentor about how I think research is for me.”
Johnson is on an ambitious path to earn both a DVM and a Ph.D., with the potential to pursue a residency program afterward. Her ultimate goal is to become a faculty member at a veterinary school.
“I think mentoring the next generation is a gift that shouldn’t be taken for granted, and I would love to be there to guide them through their journey the same way I have been guided through mine by so many brilliant mentors,” Johnson said. “My principal investigator has really made a huge difference in my life and my career through guiding and mentoring me, and I want to be able to be that for others in the future.”
Johnson’s commitment to research, particularly in understanding
SARS-CoV-2’s effects on livestock, highlights her dedication to both animal and public health. With her passion and purpose, she is not only shaping her own future but also paving the way for meaningful advancements in veterinary medicine.
“Mentoring is critical for developing skills, transferring knowledge, guiding career paths, boosting confidence and promoting innovation,” Channappanavar said. “Paige’s exceptional research skills, dedication to research, and collaborative spirit make her a valuable asset to the field of veterinary medicine.”
research and veterinary medicine at the OSU
Paige Johnson connected her passions for advancing
CVM.
Thank You to our Clerkship Sites
with us for the clerkship program starting in the fall of 2021. Your dedication and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the education and future of our veterinary students.
Through your partnership, our students have gained invaluable experience in small animal primary care, medicine, surgery and dentistry, all while honing their skills in real-world settings.
HOSPITAL CATOOSA SMALL ANIMAL HOSPITAL EAST LAKE VETERINARY HOSPITAL GOOD SHEPHERD VETERINARY HOSPITAL
VETERINARY HOSPITAL LAZYPAW ANIMAL HOSPITAL MAIN STREET VETERINARY HOSPITAL NEEL VETERINARY HOSPITAL
OKLAHOMA VETERINARY SPECIALISTS
OSAGE ANIMAL HOSPITAL
ROSE ROCK VETERINARY HOSPITAL & PET RESORT
ANIMAL URGENT CARE VCA KICKINGBIRD ANIMAL HOSPITAL
WOODLAND WEST ANIMAL HOSPITAL
HIGHLAND VETERINARY CLINIC WEATHERFORD EQUINE
EmphasizingResearch
Students tout discoveries in Summer Research Training Program
Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine students participated in the Summer Research Training Program this past summer. SRTP offers mentored training for veterinary students in biomedical research through a 12-week paid summer immersion experience. The goal of the program is to foster the development of the next generation of veterinary research scientists.
DOGS’ PREFERENCE FOR A RED COAT VERSUS A WHITE COAT WHEN OFFERED A FOOD REWARD IN THE EXAM ROOM
— JACINDA BEROKOFF
MENTOR
– DR. LETICIA FANUCCHI
Jacinda Berokoff participated in the SRTP this past summer, focusing on the impact of veterinarians’ coats on canine stress levels.
Her research investigates how the traditional white coat can elevate heart rate, temperature, respiration rate and blood pressure in dogs, potentially leading to misdiagnoses. Berokoff conducted trials comparing the effects of a white coat versus a red coat on various dogs.
“I have been very interested in behavior medicine for a long time,” Berokoff said. “I think this project is great because it can benefit not just patients but vets as well because it puts them at less risk for aggression and also means our patients are less stressed and will respond better.”
Under the supervision of Dr. Leticia Fanucchi, behavior medicine clinical assistant professor, Berokoff conducted trials on 30 dogs and has plans to conduct more. Her research found that out of the 30 dogs, 60% approached the red coat first and 40% approached the white coat first.
These numbers could indicate that the coat’s color isn’t the issue, but the coat itself is.
“My advice to someone considering this program would be to trust yourself,” Berokoff said. “You are smarter than you think, know more than you think, and just as welcome in this area as anyone else.”
INTAKE CAUSES OF WILD RAPTORS TO A WILDLIFE REHABILITATION CENTER IN OKLAHOMA
— JULIET CAMPBELL MENTOR – DR. JOÃO BRANDÃO
Juliet Campbell’s study assessed the intake and outcomes of raptor species admitted to WildCare Oklahoma from 2020-22.
These birds of prey are vital to their ecosystems and serve as crucial indicators of environmental health.
“From a young age, I have always wanted to do wildlife conservation, so when this opportunity arose to understand what raptors are doing in Oklahoma, I was very interested,” Campbell said.
Under the guidance of her mentor, Dr. João Brandão, zoological medicine professor, Campbell discovered that WildCare received a total of 8,548 birds between 2020 and 2022, with 1,546 of those being raptors.
The data gathered during this study will not only serve as a valuable database for future retrospective research and protocol development at WildCare, but it may also offer insights that benefit other wildlife rehabilitation centers.
“Before joining SRTP, I didn’t see myself doing research, but I fell in love with it and could definitely see myself doing more,” Campbell said.
ESTABLISHMENT OF PROTOCOLS AND CONDITIONS FOR CULTURING BOVINE EMBRYONIC STEM CELLS
— JADE WILKINSON MENTOR – DR. JOÃO MORAES
Jade Wilkinson’s summer research training project focused on developing a protocol for bovine embryonic stem cells.
Stem cell research is currently a vibrant field, with established protocols for smaller lab animals and equine, but a gap exists for bovine species. This work has significant implications for regenerative medicine, enhancing reproductive efficiency and various other applications.
“Dr. Moraes, my current research advisor, said, ‘What’s better than learning the big picture things like anatomy and physiology in vet school, and then being able to connect it deeper with specific scientific research?’ and I said, ‘You know what? You’re right,’ so I joined SRTP in hopes of giving it a try,” Wilkinson said.
Wilkinson and Moraes successfully established bovine ESC through SRTP research. However, while typical differentiation success rates range from 40-50% under ideal conditions, their results showed a rate of about 16%. This highlights the opportunity to optimize techniques and protocols to improve yield in future experiments.
“What I am most grateful for this summer was the opportunity to grow more independent as a thinker and researcher, as well as connections I made and continue to foster in research and veterinary medicine,” Wilkinson said.
CYANIDIN ALLEVIATES PALMITIC ACID-INDUCED SENESCENCE AND INFLAMMATION IN MICROGLIAL CELLS
— SAMANTHA BURKE
MENTOR
– DR. MADHAN SUBRAMANIAN
Samantha Burke’s research consisted of the use of human microglial cells and how a compound called Cyanidin-3-Rutinoside (C3R) can reverse the effects of obesity in the brain.
“What inspired me to choose this topic was that it is part of One Health,” Burke said. “I wanted to do veterinary medicine so that I can help humans and animals so this was very interesting to me.”
The results suggest that C3R may help counteract PA-induced changes in human microglia, such as neuroinflammation, senescence and excitotoxicity, indicating its potential as a therapeutic approach for obesityrelated cardiovascular diseases.
“This research definitely opened my eyes to the other fields out there because I never thought I wanted to do research until I joined SRTP,” Burke said. “My experience helped me in terms of understanding how different systems work which will help me be a better veterinarian.”
Other SRTP Students
Paige Johnson mentored by Dr. Rudra Channappanavar
SARS-CoV-2 membrane (M) protein utilizes TLR4 and Myd88 signaling to induce inflammation
Victoria Lindsay
mentored by Dr. Giovani Catandi
Optimizing oocyte quality in mares undergoing repeated TVA procedures: The potential benefits of firocoxib
Eden Manuel
mentored by Dr. Reed Holyoak
Delineation of miRNAs as biomarkers in equine chronic endometritis during different phases of the estrous cycle
Amelia Martens
mentored by Dr. McKale Montgomery
Efficacy of novel lipid-based transfection method for the study of tauopathy in zebrafish neurons
Mary Neff
mentored by Dr. Kathryn Duncan
Active tick surveillance on cattle farm in central Oklahoma determines vegetation type alters tick risk
Emily Regier
mentored by Dr. Jennifer Grindstaff
Effects of temperature on innate immunity in house sparrow nestlings
Regan Smith
mentored by Dr. Patrick R. Stephens
Comparative analysis of drivers of zoonotic disease outbreaks in the United States vs. globally
Michael St. Clair
mentored by Dr. Clint Jones
E2F1 and E2F2 mediate certain aspects of HSV-1 gene expression in murine neuroblastoma cells
Kate Watts
mentored by Dr. Liz McCullagh
Physiological and behavioral differences of female prairie voles housed in different social environments
Stock Show Students Turned Farm Physicians
Event provides experience to those wishing to enter
veterinary field
Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine faculty and students gathered in Oklahoma City and Tulsa to educate and mentor youth livestock exhibitors.
What began as an idea sparked by Oklahoma Secretary of Agriculture
Blayne Arthur blossomed into a sister partnership with Dr. Rosslyn Biggs, assistant clinical professor, beef cattle extension specialist and CVM director of continuing education.
Biggs and Arthur recognized a need for experienced and hardworking 4-H and FFA members to pursue careers in veterinary medicine. Combining their passions and knowledge, they developed at the ExpOSUre: Livestock Docs.
At the ExpOSUre, students ages 8 to 18 participated in a series of stations,
each led by established livestock veterinarians and CVM students. From tail-tying procedures to calving simulations, participants were fully exposed to a day in the life of a mixedpractice veterinarian.
“Through collaboration and preparation, the ExpOSUre was intended to catalyze for livestock exhibitors to gain hands-on experience and network with veterinarians,” Biggs said. “There is no better way to inspire them than to expose them to real-world experiences with Oklahoma’s best.”
Stations led by veterinarians and CVM students taught participants how to mix vaccines properly and provided instruction on giving intramuscular and subcutaneous injections, best physical examination strategies, leg wrapping
techniques and more. Biggs said getting students hands-on experience with common clinic procedures is a big step in preparing them for their undergraduate degree and, eventually, veterinary school.
“When students are exposed to opportunities to learn and grow confidence in their abilities, they are likely to take these skills home with them and implement them into their operation,” Biggs said. “Not only are we introducing them to veterinary medicine, but we are challenging them to be problem solvers and teaching them about the importance of animal health.”
An event of this caliber is not a simple feat and those involved are no strangers to bringing big ideas to fruition for Oklahoma youth. Four
"Not only are we introducing them to veterinary medicine, but we are challenging them to be problem solvers and teaching them about the importance of animal health."
Dr. Rosslyn Biggs, CVM director of continuing education
integral groups joined together to make this event happen. Biggs said the OSU CVM, Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association, and the Oklahoma Pork Council were eager to help recruit green and blue jacket students to pursue white coats.
“Addressing Oklahoma’s rural and large animal veterinary shortage has been a priority for ODAFF and many of our partners,” said JanLee Rowlett, deputy commissioner of agriculture. “We want to use every opportunity and tool available to us to recruit the next generation of veterinarians and help
current and future practitioners be successful.”
Rowlett said the OSU CVM, OVMA, and the Oklahoma Pork Council are proactive in their attempts to provide opportunities for students to identify their career aspirations.
“When we think about who is most likely to have an interest in large animal medicine and might be willing to build a life and career in rural communities, youth livestock exhibitors have to be part of the conversation,” Rowlett said.
Rural Oklahoma and states nationwide are experiencing vast veterinarian and technician shortages. According to the Farm Journal
Third-year veterinary student Dani Hallmark teaches 4-H and FFA members how to wrap a horse’s leg.
"These events are designed to be fun and very introductory, We want everyone to feel free to jump in and enjoy the experience, whether they know they definitely want to be a veterinarian or even if they think their future holds something totally different."
JanLee Rowlett, deputy commissioner of agriculture
Foundation, more than 500 counties across the U.S. have shortages of food animal veterinarians. An event like the ExpOSUre is aimed at recruiting and retaining passionate young agriculturists in the field to combat this obstacle.
These youth exhibitors value the strong relationships formed with their local veterinarians. Biggs said it is essential to offer learning opportunities for students to capitalize on their agriculture experiences and kickstart an excitement for veterinary medicine.
“In my role as CVM director of continuing education, we talk a lot about concerns in clinic mentorships and ensuring students are prepared to go out into the field,” Biggs said. “Programs like ExpOSUre are going to be pivotal in providing mentoring opportunities between current prosperous veterinarians and excited young people.”
Dr. Rod Hall, state veterinarian and CVM alumnus, teaches 4-H and FFA students how to mix vaccines.
Building relationships between veterinarians, CVM students, and 4-H and FFA members provides connections that can help them through every step of their path to becoming a veterinarian. Biggs said encouragement from respected mixed-practice veterinarians is crucial in building young leaders’ confidence to pursue animal science.
Another aspect incorporated into the event was the importance of biosecurity in livestock and veterinary medicine environments. At the Tulsa State Fair ExpOSUre, former Oklahoma Pork Council interns Presley Pullen and Gus Ward led a swine-focused biosecurity simulation to show students the effects of sanitation practices and traceability using Glo-Germ.
“When pursuing paths in veterinary medicine, it is important for students to recognize the importance of strong biosecurity and the Oklahoma Pork Council is exceptional at educating students in a fun way,” Biggs said.
Learning proper biosecurity practices is a fantastic opportunity for students to develop a veterinarianclient-patient relationship and create a plan for their livestock’s health. The industry is always encouraging future opportunities for students to capitalize on during their path to becoming a veterinarian, but biosecurity is
something they can put into exercise immediately.
“I really enjoyed getting to learn and see how things in the veterinary world worked at a closer level,” said Hudson Andrews, Purcell FFA member and ODAFF Agriculture Youth Council member. “I came in with some prior knowledge from working with horses, cattle and swine, but really enjoyed seeing the proper way to do things as well as diving more in-depth on why we do certain things.”
Like Andrews, Oklahoma Pork Council executive director Kylee Deniz credits her show pig involvement with sparking a commitment to the agricultural industry.
“As a former 4-H and FFA member with experience showing swine, I know firsthand how impactful these early livestock experiences can be,” Deniz said. “Not just because of the educational component, but the connections made with people who inspire and guide us.”
Deniz is a dedicated mentor to Oklahoma youth, creating unique learning opportunities through workshops, internships and partnerships with institutions like OSU.
“Being a proud OSU Cowboy, it was exciting for me to be a part of introducing Oklahoma State Fair and
Tulsa State Fair livestock exhibitors to the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine as a premier place where they can enhance their skills, develop their expertise and make a significant impact on animal health,” Deniz said.
While there are no official future ExpOSUre events on the calendar yet, Biggs and Arthur said they are open to any opportunity to meet students where they are and plan to continue educating youth in agriculture in this way.
“These events are designed to be fun and very introductory,” Rowlett said. “We want everyone to feel free to jump in and enjoy the experience, whether they know they definitely want to be a veterinarian or even if they think their future holds something totally different.”
The first ExpOSUre was a great success due largely to state industry supporters. Each student left the event with a T-shirt sponsored by the OVMA and a new understanding of the role of mixed-practice veterinarians.
“The CVM remains committed to investing in the next generation of veterinarians and this opportunity served as a great way to do that,” Biggs said.
Students from all over the state of Oklahoma came together for the ExpOSUre event.
S haping Future Rural Vet Med's
First group of scholarship awardees prepare to aid areas in need
In the quiet corners of rural America, where the nearest neighbor may be miles away, a small but vital group of professionals keeps the heartbeat of agriculture steady.
They are the rural veterinarians — often working long hours, in all weather, sometimes with little fanfare — tending to the animals that provide food, fiber and livelihood to thousands of families.
The work is demanding, but the rewards are often intangible, rooted in the deep relationships veterinarians build with the farmers and ranchers who depend on them. Rural veterinarians are not just animal practitioners; they are embedded in the communities they serve and are integral parts of the fabric of rural America.
At the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine,
cultivating the next generation of rural veterinarians is a top priority.
“At OSU, we are deeply committed to producing practice-ready large and mixed animal veterinarians who can step directly into the field and make an impact,” said Dr. Rosslyn Biggs, CVM assistant professor and director of the Oklahoma Rural Veterinary Scholarship and Loan Forgiveness Program. “We know these veterinarians play a critical role in rural communities, and we want to ensure our graduates are prepared to meet the unique challenges of rural practice with confidence.”
This summer, the Oklahoma Legislative and Executive branches passed HB 3196 — the Dr. Lee Denney Act. It was created to provide financial support for students pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at
“Through this scholarship program, we’re not just training veterinarians; we’re cultivating the future of rural Oklahoma.”
Dr. Lee
Denney, 1978 CVM
alumna
OSU CVM is focused on graduating practice-ready veterinarians who are prepared to step into rural communities and make an immediate impact.
OSU to practice in rural Oklahoma communities and receive training to meet the needs of livestock producers.
Denney, a 1978 CVM alumna, expanded her horizons from the veterinary realm to go into public service. Throughout her illustrious career, she also served as the speaker pro tempore in the Oklahoma House of Representatives.
“For far too long, our rural communities have struggled with a critical shortage of veterinarians who understand the challenges of agricultural livestock,” Denney said. “This bill isn’t just about financial support for students — it’s about sustaining the lifeblood of Oklahoma’s agricultural economy. By investing in these young veterinarians, we’re ensuring that our farmers and ranchers will continue to have the essential professional support they need to maintain healthy herds and profitable operations.
“Through this scholarship program, we’re not just training veterinarians; we’re cultivating the future of rural Oklahoma.”
The scholarship program prioritizes Oklahoma residents who are passionate about large animal care and committed
to practicing in communities with populations of 25,000 or fewer. The scholarships are designated up to $25,000 annually for up to four years.
“We are incredibly grateful to the Oklahoma Legislature for their support of our college, students and rural Oklahoma,” Biggs said. “It’s not just an investment in education; it’s an investment that will support Oklahoma agriculture and strengthen our rural communities.”
The first scholarship recipients from the Oklahoma Rural Veterinary Scholarship and Loan Forgiveness Program are class of 2025 students Taylor Cartmell, Lauren Dixon, Jacob Gollihare, Mandy Lawson and Will Shelby, along with class of 2026 students Cassidy Barry, Noah Edwards and Eli Pool.
“Rural veterinary medicine is something I believe is a crucial part of our state,” Shelby said. “Not only do I feel like I can make a difference in the role as a rural veterinarian, but something I believe is one of the biggest joys of this career path is the personal relationships you get to build with your clients.”
As an Oklahoma resident from a rural, farming community, Dixon is
passionate about helping farmers and ranchers.
“Growing up on a commercial cattle ranch in Wyandotte, Oklahoma, I was able to see all aspects of the industry and fell in love with herd health,” Dixon said. “It was a fascinating concept to me that even the smallest of changes in a herd health management program could make a large impact on production and profitability.”
Since attending OSU CVM, Dixon has only grown her passion for this area of veterinary medicine.
“If you would have asked me when I began veterinary school why I wanted to be a vet, it would have been a simple answer of I like animals and want to help them,” she said. “Going through school and truly finding a passion for food animal medicine, my answer to this question now would be that veterinary medicine is crucial to the forward progression of the food animal industry, and I want to be a part of that.”
Some students, like Cartmell, witnessed firsthand the shortage of rural veterinarians.
“Being raised in Oklahoma, I was quickly exposed to the shortage of veterinarians in rural communities,” Cartmell said. “This inspired me to
Will Shelby operates the chute while Mandy Lawson reads a heifer’s ear tag ID.
pursue rural veterinary care and help mitigate some of the shortage.”
As a fifth-generation farmer, Edwards experienced similar challenges raising cattle in western Oklahoma. Growing up near Calumet and having farms in Carnegie, Edwards said he’s had to drive an hour to have a cow checked. He’s also had times where there was no available veterinarian at all. He recognizes the problem and said he hopes to be a part of the solution.
For these students, OSU was the perfect fit for pursuing their dreams and supporting them in becoming large animal veterinarians.
“OSU has supported me in my journey to becoming a mixed animal veterinarian by offering core and elective classes that not only focus on the knowledge of treating production animals but also the hands-on experience I will need after graduation,” Barry said.
Many recipients attributed their success to the guidance and mentorship of the exceptional faculty members at OSU CVM.
“Individuals like Drs. Rosslyn Biggs, Lionel Dawson and Jared Taylor are invaluable assets to their students,” Lawson said. “The foundational relationships built with them serve us in so many capacities. From recommendations for externships and introduction to future peers at conferences, I will never be able to put into words the full impact they have had on me and my education.”
Students are prepared for their careers through a blend of rigorous classroom instruction and a wide range of extracurricular opportunities that allow them to practice and refine their skills outside of the classroom.
“OSU CVM has an outstanding system of clubs and organizations, many of which are large animal-based,” Pool said. “It is through these organizations as well as large animal electives that I have been able to expand my clinical understanding and skills to be prepared as a fourth-year student heading into clinical rotations.”
As the recipients reflected on their veterinary school experiences and the support received through this program, they expressed gratitude for
the individuals and organizations who made this opportunity possible.
“This program is a blessing, not only to myself as being one of the first to receive this award, but also for future recipients who are looking to begin a career in rural veterinary medicine,” Dixon said. “This award will allow me to begin my career with financial stability and reduce the burden of my student loans.”
Dixon plans to pay it forward by advocating for animal health in her community. Edwards echoed her sentiments.
“It is a huge blessing to my family and me,” he said. “It feels like a giant weight has been lifted off my shoulders.”
Shelby described this experience as a huge honor.
“This is something I don’t take lightly, and I hope that I can contribute to the state’s need for rural veterinarians in a quality way,” he said.
He plans to return to southern Oklahoma and open a food animal practice.
“Growing up, I was fortunate enough to get to follow my dad around quite often on his workdays as a food animal veterinarian,” he said. “I saw the difference and relationships that are products of an involved food animal veterinarian, and the culmination of these things helped me decide this was the career for me.”
Lawson is looking forward to developing strong roots in the community she ends up in and building relationships with the producers she’ll be working with.
“I believe that as a veterinarian in a rural community, I have the distinct opportunity to pour into and invest in the next generation of agriculturists as they begin realizing and pursuing their dreams,” Lawson said. “Through striving for excellence and looking for opportunities to be a value-added asset to the students, community members and producers I am working with and for, I am eager to be able to give back to my community.”
From left: Will Shelby, Dr. Lee Denney and Mandy Lawson discuss the need for rural veterinarians and the students’ future plans for practice.
OPEN HOUSE FOR OPEN MINDS
The Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine hosted its annual Open House on Oct. 26, 2024. Hundreds of #FutureCowboyVets and visitors explored the world of veterinary medicine with hands-on experiences and thrilling activities. Highlights included teddy bear surgery, a live K9 demonstration from the Stillwater Police Department, trick-ortreating stations and getting up close with a fascinating anatomy showcase. Next year’s Open House date will be announced at vetmed.okstate.edu in 2025.
PHOTOS ELIZABETH
Greetings from the Alumni Society
Dear OSU CVM Alumni and Friends,
I am grateful for the opportunity to serve each of our alumni as the president of the OSU CVM Alumni Society.
As a 2020 graduate and native of Paris, Texas, I returned home after earning my DVM to join my family’s practice, where I now serve as a mixed animal practitioner.
On behalf of the Alumni Society, I am thrilled to share that we awarded our inaugural Recent Graduate Alumni Award to Dr. Rebekah Hartfield. This award was established to highlight our outstanding recent graduates who are making exceptional contributions to the veterinary profession.
As president, I look forward to serving our alumni and friends as we continue the future of the CVM and embark on new projects at the college.
I also plan on fostering connections among our alumni, supporting the initiatives of the CVM, and encouraging recent graduates to engage with alumni events and opportunities. Together, we can bridge the gap between the past, present and future of our alumni community while advancing the mission of the CVM.
I look forward to leading you all in the upcoming years.
Go Pokes!
Trey Kraft, 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/ share/g/1ANMJSb6Qb/
Nominate a Distinguished Alumni: Nominate deserving CVM alumni at vetmed.okstate.edu/about/alumni-awards.html
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. Trey Kraft, OSU CVM Alumni Society president, at we3kraft@gmail.com.
PHOTO PHIL SHOCKLEY
CVM HONORS FIVE ALUMNI WITH AWARDS
HIGH HONOR
The Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine named Drs. Bill and Angie DuBois, Daniel Holland and James Meinkoth its 2024 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients, and Dr. Rebekah Hartfield its Recent Graduate Alumni Award winner. 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. 14, 2024.
DRS. ANGIE + BILL DuBOIS
“We are both very proud to be veterinarians and love our profession. Additionally, we are proud to be graduates of OSU CVM.”
DISTINGUISHED
ALUMNI
Compassion in Action
Drs. Bill and Angie DuBois have dedicated their careers and lives to serving others, achieving personal and professional excellence while giving back to the community.
Their distinguished service and leadership in veterinary medicine, both domestically and internationally, earned them the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine Distinguished Alumni Award.
The DuBoises shared path began at OSU, where they first met during veterinary school. This period not only laid the foundation of their veterinary careers but also marked the start of a partnership characterized by their values of service and compassion.
“We are both very proud to be veterinarians and love our profession,” Angie DuBois said. “Additionally, we are proud to be graduates of OSU CVM.”
After graduation, they both gained experience in their respective areas of veterinary practice: Bill DuBois in livestock production and Angie DuBois in small animal emergency care. For over 15 years, they refined their expertise, demonstrating their dedication to their patients, clients and the communities they served nationwide.
Bill DuBois’ career included work as an affiliate veterinarian, consulting in swine health and management for clients across multiple states. From 2006-15, he served swine producers in Colorado, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas, providing crucial guidance to improve animal welfare and farm management practices.
“Bill demonstrated a unique ability to connect and communicate with people at the farm level and provide
technical information that truly helped the producer and the animals,” said C. Scanlon Daniels, friend and former colleague.
Bill DuBois’ commitment to continuing education was demonstrated by his enrollment in the executive veterinary program in swine health management at the University of Illinois.
His dedication to his profession extended to his service as a district representative on the American Association of Swine Veterinarians board, where he served two consecutive three-year terms. His expertise and contributions were recognized in 2018 when he was invited to present the prestigious Howard Dunne Memorial Lecture at the AASV annual meeting.
While Bill DuBois worked in livestock production, Angie DuBois’ work in small animal emergency medicine showed her commitment to supporting pet owners and families in times of urgent need.
In addition to their veterinary careers, the DuBoises have always shown a deep commitment to serving their community. While raising their two children, Vince and Iris, they balanced their demanding professional responsibilities with active community involvement.
“Drs. Bill and Angie have always demonstrated their commitment to community outside of their family and profession,” Daniels said. “I personally observed the food pantry that they ran from their home garage to benefit hungry kids in their community.”
In 2015, the DuBoises embarked on a new chapter of their journey when they joined the Christian Veterinary Mission as long-term fieldworkers in Southeast Asia. This decision showed
their deep faith and commitment to using their veterinary skills to serve in a global context.
“I was excited for the opportunity that Dr. Bill pursued with the Christian Veterinary Mission upon leaving our practice, but his departure definitely left a void and his presence was missed,” Daniels said.
Their work in Southeast Asia involved partnerships with a local Christian college and a ministry organization, through which they conducted livestock husbandry and English language training. By equipping students with both technical knowledge and language skills, the DuBoises helped prepare them for future ministries that could improve economic opportunities and community health.
The DuBoises worked to improve livestock practices in the surrounding communities, sharing their expertise to enhance family economies through sustainable husbandry practices. By providing training in livestock management, they offered local farmers the tools to improve their productivity and quality of life, ensuring a lasting positive impact on the communities they served.
The couple recently moved back to the U.S. and now live in Clinton, Oklahoma, where Bill DuBois works full time with Christian Veterinary Mission and plans to work with a livestock production practice soon. Angie DuBois is working at Highland Veterinary Clinic with her father and brother, both CVM alumni.
“We feel very blessed and honored to be selected for the Distinguished Alumni Award,” Angie DuBois said.
LTC DANIEL HOLLAND
“Our family is grateful for the recognition of his service and honoring his commitment to improving the quality of life for animals and humans of all nations.”
Veterinary Veteran DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI
A love for animals and a passion for people — that is how many remember Lt. Col. Daniel Holland.
Holland attended Marlow High School in southwestern Oklahoma, where he was soon introduced to Dr. Lyndon Graf, an Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine alumnus.
Not long after meeting and seeing Holland’s exuberance, Graf hired him and introduced him to his trade.
“Working with Daniel daily was an enjoyable experience,” Graf said.
Graf stated it was clear that after working with Holland for a short time, it was evident he wanted to pursue a career in veterinary medicine, and that he did.
“Being from a military family, it was no surprise that Daniel joined the ROTC program when he started at OSU,” Graf said.
Upon graduating from the CVM in 1988, Holland was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army.
“He was quoted as saying, ‘Where else could a person swim with a dolphin, jump out of airplanes, and help people in faraway countries take better care of their animals?’” Graf said.
Holland took every opportunity to better himself while serving active duty. He was initially assigned as the installation veterinary officer at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indiana. He then completed a temporary change of station in support of Joint Task Force Bravo in Honduras.
His next assignment took him close to home at Fort Sill, Oklahoma,
where he was responsible for providing veterinary services to Fort Sill, as well as Altus Air Force Base in Oklahoma and Sheppard Air Force Base in Wichita Falls, Texas.
Holland later earned a Master of Science in environmental health from Colorado State University. For his master’s thesis, he conducted an epidemiological study of neurocysticercosis in Haiti during Operation Uphold Democracy. Following this, he was assigned as deputy commander of the 72nd Medical Detachment (Veterinary Services [VS]) in Giebelstadt, Germany. During this tour, he commanded the 72nd Medical Detachment (VS)(Forward) for six months in the Balkans, covering Bosnia, Croatia and Hungary.
Upon returning to the U.S. in 1999, he was assigned to the Army Medical Department Center and School at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, where he served as branch chief in the Department of Veterinary Science and as an instructor for the AMEDD Officer Basic and Advanced Courses.
After completing his assignment there, he assumed command of the South Plains District Veterinary Command at Fort Hood, Texas. He oversaw all military veterinary services across Texas, Oklahoma and Louisiana in this role.
In 2006, Holland, always the soldier first, and three others, along with their Iraqi interpreter, made the ultimate sacrifice for their nations when they were killed in action by a roadside bomb near Baghdad while assisting
in the apprehension of an evading insurgent by blocking a canal road escape route.
Holland always volunteered first for every mission, and his infectious enthusiasm and motivation will forever be missed by all, including his wife, Sheryl.
Holland’s lists of assignments and roles were not short, but neither was his passion for helping others. He was often known as a rare individual who was universally respected and liked by all.
“Daniel was an outstanding leader and mentor to many veterinarians, soldiers and others who had the distinct pleasure of working with him or for him,” said Randall Thompson, Liaison DeBusk Veterinary Teaching Center associate professor of small animal surgery.
The military recognized Holland’s ultimate sacrifice for his country by naming the Lackland Military Dog Hospital after him on May 28, 2009. The Holland Military Working Dog Hospital is a world-renowned level 5 referral center for military working dogs worldwide.
“Daniel would be humbled and honored to be named a distinguished alumnus,” said the Holland family. “Our family is grateful for the recognition of his service and honoring his commitment to improving the quality of life for animals and humans of all nations.”
DR. JAMES MEINKOTH
“I would like to thank everyone who nominated me. I think it is meaningful to be in the same ranks with people like Roger Panciera, who have received the award already.”
DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI
A Lifetime Commitment
Imagine moving halfway across the country, setting out on a path that would define a legacy of passion, dedication and impact.
That journey began 32 years ago for Dr. James Meinkoth, a professor of veterinary pathobiology at Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Meinkoth grew up in New Jersey as an avid fan of fellow Garden State native Bruce Springsteen fan. He found his way to Oklahoma a year before entering college at OSU to pursue his undergraduate degree in art and sciences.
Upon graduating with his bachelor’s degree, Meinkoth started at the CVM in fall 1981. While there, he found his true calling in clinical pathobiology. Meinkoth graduated with his DVM in 1985. After commencement, Meinkoth stayed in Stillwater and pursued a master’s degree in veterinary pathology.
Meinkoth never questioned his journey to becoming a veterinarian. He knew early on that he wanted to make a living practicing medicine, specifically on animals.
Meinkoth met his wife, Dr. Katrina Meinkoth, who also loved veterinary medicine, right before he entered veterinary school. Katrina Meinkoth is a class of 1988 alumna. They have a son, Phillip Meinkoth, an attorney in Denver.
After completing his undergraduate degree, a DVM, and an M.S. at OSU, Meinkoth and his family moved to Washington State University, where
he earned his Ph.D. in veterinary pathology and completed his residency training in 1993.
Meinkoth soon returned “home” to OSU in 1992. Since his return, Meinkoth has been a central figure at the CVM, influencing students, colleagues and the wonders of the veterinary medicine field. His teaching style within his courses is hands-on and interactive, earning him deep respect from students over the years.
“Their enthusiasm keeps me young,” he said, reflecting on the energy he gets from working with students. Because of his commitment to teaching, he has received the prestigious Regents Distinguished Teaching Award twice. For Meinkoth, the true reward is knowing he has helped shape the careers of countless veterinarians through his classroom and his mentoring of students.
Beyond teaching, Meinkoth has written numerous publications and chapters in textbooks, as well as led continuing education workshops. These contributions have established him as a leading figure in pathobiology, a role he fulfills with humility and a desire to continue learning and growing.
Meinkoth’s influence extends beyond professional accomplishments; he is a source of inspiration within the OSU community.
“He is remarkable as a teacher, diagnostician and applied researcher,” said Dr. Anthony Confer, veterinary pathobiology faculty emeriti.
For Meinkoth, his role at the CVM is not a job but a lifelong commitment
— a journey he is grateful to continue each day. With his deep connection to OSU, Meinkoth’s legacy is one of passion, excellence and an unwavering commitment to veterinary medicine.
“Because of Dr. Meinkoth, there is always one to two students in each class that choose to explore becoming a clinical pathologist,” said Dr. Jerry Ritchey, CVM interim dean
Known for his loyalty to OSU and his genuine love for teaching, colleagues often describe him as a model of dedication and integrity.
“If you know Dr. Meinkoth, you know an exceptionally kind, gentle, humble and unassuming person,” Ritchey said.
As Meinkoth reflects on his career, he remains grounded, drawing motivation from the students and colleagues who have supported him in the past and present. Through every challenge and achievement, Meinkoth’s dedication has left a lasting imprint on the CVM, inspiring future generations to follow in his footsteps.
“I would like to thank everyone who nominated me,” Meinkoth said. “I think it is meaningful to be in the same ranks with people like Roger Panciera, who have received the award already.”
DR. REBEKAH HARTFIELD
“School was really hard for me; I worked and studied really hard. I felt like I really got to shine in my fourth year because of all the clinical skills I had gained prior to school.”
RECENT GRADUATE
Beyond the Clinic’s Walls
A veterinarian, an author and a mentor — these are just a few words used to describe Dr. Rebekah Hartfield, mixed animal practitioner.
Now, she can add Recent Graduate Alumni Award winner to her list of titles.
Growing up, Hartfield didn’t have dreams of becoming a veterinarian like most others who go into the field. Although she grew up in a rural community, rode horses and was heavily involved in 4-H, veterinary medicine never crossed her mind.
It wasn’t until after high school that she found her passion for the field.
Hartfield felt ready for a change after attending North Central Texas College in Gainesville and working for a cutting horse trainer. She decided to apply for a job at a local veterinary clinic in Texas.
“They kind of took a chance on me, I would say, because I had zero experience. I had never even given an injection before,” Hartfield said.
During her time at the clinic, Hartfield returned to school to complete the necessary coursework to apply for veterinary school. After finishing the required classes and applying to multiple universities, she eventually found her way to the
Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine in Stillwater, where she would spend the next four years.
Hartfield began her veterinary school journey in fall 2012 and graduated as part of the class of 2016. Hartfield will be the first to say that veterinary school wasn’t easy for her.
“School was really hard for me; I worked and studied really hard,” Hartfield said. “I felt like I really got to shine in my fourth year because of all the clinical skills I had gained prior to school.”
Although her path to vet school wasn’t what many might consider the “easy” route, Hartfield has made, and continues to make, an everlasting impact on veterinary medicine.
She owns two veterinary clinics: Holdenville Veterinary Clinic in Holdenville, Oklahoma, and Hartfield Veterinary Clinic Urgent Care in Mannford, Oklahoma.
“Dr. Hartfield serves as a role model for all veterinarians,” said Dr. Roslynn Biggs, assistant clinical professor, beef cattle extension specialist, and CVM director of continuing education.
Hartfield is passionate about her community and helping others. Immediately after graduation, she
became a mentor to other veterinary students and pre-veterinary students.
“As evidence of her impact, she is routinely selected by OSU CVM class members as a distinguished coater for the OSU CVM grey and white coat ceremonies,” Biggs said.
Hartfield’s dedication to the future of veterinary medicine extends beyond her clinic’s walls. She is also a noted children’s book author, featuring the characters Dr. H and Abby. This fictional duo works together to diagnose and treat small and large animals.
In addition to her advocacy in the community, Hartfield has served on the Oklahoma State Board of Veterinary Medical Examiners since 2021. In this prestigious role, she represents the best interests of both the profession and the public.
“She has played an instrumental role in influencing change in the profession, her local community and the state, all while balancing her commitments to faith and family,” Biggs said.
A CAREER BUILT IN THE CHUTE
CREATING A LEGACY OF RURAL VETERINARIANS
For many veterinary students, graduation marks the conclusion of years of studying, training and personal growth.
For Will Shelby, it also signifies the continuation of a family tradition, one that is rooted in rural veterinary medicine and cattle husbandry. When he walks across the stage this spring to receive his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Oklahoma State University, it won’t just mark the closing of his academic journey but the beginning of the latest chapter in a legacy started by his father.
Dr. Troy Shelby earned his DVM from the same institution and built a career treating cattle and serving the needs of livestock producers.
For both Shelbys, caring for livestock is more than part of their profession; it’s a way of life.
Troy Shelby earned his bachelor’s degree in animal science from OSU before beginning veterinary school. He graduated from the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine in 1989. Shortly after finishing school, he married his wife, Merrily, and they had two children, Levi and Will.
“I don’t remember exactly when I knew I wanted to be a veterinarian, but I always knew I wanted to take care of cattle and veterinary medicine was the path I chose,” Troy Shelby said.
The elder Shelby worked for a small animal veterinarian in junior high school, but instead of working in the clinic, he worked with his cattle. Since then, he has focused his career on bovine herd health and serving livestock markets.
For 28 years, he has provided veterinary service to the Southern Oklahoma Livestock Auction in Ada. For the past 15 years, Troy Shelby has
also provided service to the Oklahoma National Stockyards in Oklahoma City. He does herd health work across southern Oklahoma and is currently the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association president.
Troy Shelby passed his love of cattle onto his sons.
“Raising, marketing and caring for beef cattle quickly became an integral part of my life,” Will Shelby said. “I particularly enjoy the animal husbandry aspect of getting to be a cattleman, and this played a huge part in me deciding to pursue veterinary medicine.”
Will Shelby said he was fortunate to follow his dad around often. It was then he saw the difference that veterinarians can make. A combined passion for animal husbandry and his father’s influence led him to pursue a path in veterinary medicine.
For Will Shelby, OSU was also a natural fit for veterinary school. OSU is not only his father’s alma mater, but he said all his mentor veterinarians are OSU CVM alumni.
“These men and women have made such a difference in my life and always seemed to be so loyal and caring about my future, not only as a veterinarian but as an individual,” Will Shelby said. “There always seemed to be an attentiveness to personal details about patients and clients that I believed to be different. This seemed to always trace back to their education and training they received in Stillwater. They always held the veterinary school in such high regard, and this was something I knew I wanted to be a part of.”
“He always tells me to just do my best. When I give my best, I know that will always be enough, whether it leads to a success or failure. As long as I am doing that, I can have peace in knowing it’s all I can control.”
— Will Shelby
“I am very proud he chose to follow in my footsteps, and I hope that he’s as excited about it as I am.”
— Troy Shelby
After graduation, Will Shelby plans to return to southern Oklahoma and start a food animal practice.
“I would like to do ambulatory medicine and potentially work as the veterinarian at a weekly livestock auction,” Will Shelby said. “I eventually want to build a facility where I specialize in general bovine medicine as well as theriogenology.”
During this time, he said he plans to work under his father’s mentorship, seeking his guidance as he begins his career in veterinary medicine.
Children of veterinarians have a unique perspective because they get to see firsthand the challenges and rewards of the profession. Will Shelby was no exception.
“Having a veterinarian as a father has shown me that although this career may not be the easiest job in the world, the joys and rewards of it far outweigh the costs,” Will Shelby said.
Troy Shelby said Will has always talked about being a veterinarian. Going through 4-H and FFA, veterinary medicine was a frequent topic of his — so much so that his parents questioned whether they had pushed him into it.
No matter what career path Will Shelby chose, Troy and Merrily would have been proud of his efforts, but veterinary medicine was ultimately where his passion lay.
Will Shelby’s decision to pursue veterinary medicine wasn’t a sudden realization but a gradual understanding
shaped by years of growing up in a family where animal husbandry and livestock care were at the heart of daily life. Tagging along with his dad gave him the hands-on experience of seeing what life as a rural veterinarian is like. He could see the impact Troy Shelby was making on people’s lives, not just with the animals but with the relationships he built with his clients.
“The most rewarding part of my career is just doing work that I enjoy, and I feel like it’s what I was meant to do,” Troy Shelby said.
As a rural veterinarian, he values his connection to the community and recognizes the important role rural veterinarians play in supporting and strengthening it.
Troy and Will Shelby discuss pregnancy stages while palpating cows.
“Our producers depend on us, as veterinarians, to be a part of their team,” Troy Shelby said. “Not only in emergency situations but to help improve their bottom line and overall herd health as well as the economic benefit of veterinary services we can provide them.”
In his career, Troy Shelby embraces a “leave it better than you found it” approach. He takes pride in playing a role in Oklahoma’s agriculture industry and is dedicated to helping make continual improvements and advancements. In his role on the Oklahoma Veterinary Medicine Authority and as a CVM Alumni Society class representative, he recognizes the importance of helping to improve the school for the next generation of veterinarians. Having a child in veterinary school has only added to that desire to make it a better place for the future.
“The younger generations are going to be the future,” Troy Shelby said. “It’s not
about us anymore, it’s about paving the way for the future generations that are coming through.”
He has put this into action, mentoring Will and many others along the way.
“One thing that inspires me most about my dad, and something I hope I can be half as sufficient as him in, is his commitment to working harder than anyone I know for his family,” Will Shelby said. “His commitment to his career, while maintaining a kindness and care for the people around him, is something that makes him a superhero to me.”
Will Shelby can’t overstate the impact the rest of his family has had on his journey to becoming a veterinarian as well.
“My mom has been a huge driving force for me, especially when it comes to academia,” Will Shelby said. “She has pushed me in so many ways and often has encouraged me to do things I didn’t particularly want to, but as I reflect, I
know that she always had my future in mind, and I’m very thankful for her.”
He also attributed his success throughout veterinary school to his wife, Hunter, and the support and care she has provided him.
As Will Shelby concludes his time in veterinary school, he leans on the advice his dad has offered him over the years.
“He always tells me to just do my best,” Will Shelby said. “When I give my best, I know that will always be enough, whether it leads to a success or failure. As long as I am doing that, I can have peace in knowing it’s all I can control.”
At the same time, Troy Shelby can’t help but feel proud as his son’s graduation approaches.
“I am very proud he chose to follow in my footsteps, and I hope that he’s as excited about it as I am,” Troy Shelby said.
Troy Shelby ultrasounds cows before the sale at the Oklahoma National Stockyards.
a
and
health TOTAL
An innovative approach combining traditional and complementary medicine has recently gained popularity in the veterinary world.
The Oklahoma State University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital provides complementary medicine — including acupuncture, chiropractic care and other therapeutic techniques for effective pain management. It has started gaining traction due to its healing benefits.
Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital provides complementary care
“Acupuncture is like magic — but magic with proven benefits,” said Dr. Lara Sypniewski, clinical associate professor of small animal primary care.
Acupuncture is a form of therapeutic medicine with roots in Chinese medicine and involves inserting thin needles into specific points of the body to stimulate energy flow. The teaching hospital has multiple veterinarians who are acupuncture-certified to better serve clients and give students an additional skill set to take into practice.
STORY BAILEY WHITE | PHOTOS TAYLOR BACON AND BAILEY WHITE
Dr. Alli Jennings provides
combination of chiropractic care
acupuncture to better serve her clients.
“I feel like all of our modalities work better when used together.”
Dr. Alli Jennings, clinical assistant professor of food animal medicine and surgery
“We place needles in sensitive areas to evoke a response from the body, which can help reduce pain and inflammation by tapping into the body’s natural pharmacy,” Sypniewski said.
Acupuncture is widely used for pain relief, especially in geriatric animals dealing with chronic conditions such as arthritis and intervertebral disc disease. For Sypniewski, who has a particular passion for working with older patients, acupuncture provides significant benefits.
“Many of my patients experience reduced pain and increased mobility, allowing them to lead happier lives even as they age,” she said.
OSU’s investment in acupuncture prompted a second treatment room due to rising demand. Acupuncture can offer benefits beyond physical healing.
“When I do acupuncture, I spend time with the owners discussing their pet’s environment, diet, supplements and other factors that contribute to their health,” Sypniewski said. “It’s a very holistic approach.”
The success stories that emerge from their practice demonstrate how acupuncture can extend an animal’s life and improve comfort in cases that might otherwise seem hopeless.
“One of my most memorable cases was a dog that had laryngeal paralysis,
which is a breathing condition,” said Dr. Melissa Raymond, clinical assistant professor of small animal primary care. “After just one acupuncture session, the dog’s breathing improved by 80%.”
OSU has veterinarians who specialize in small animal acupuncture as well as large animal acupuncture. Dr. Alli Jennings, clinical assistant professor of food animal medicine and surgery, completed her acupuncture training during her residency.
“Most of my clients are show steers, performance bovine, such as bucking stock, some fertility work for bulls and cows, and equine acupuncture,” Jennings said.
Jennings uses an integrative approach, combining traditional veterinary medicine with acupuncture and chiropractic therapies.
“I feel like all of our modalities work better when used together,” Jennings said.
Along with Jennings’ expertise in acupuncture, she offers chiropractic treatment to equine and food animal patients. The role of chiropractic care is especially significant in treating musculoskeletal problems.
“Anything that has to do with lameness or an injury of some kind can truly benefit from chiropractic care,”
Jennings said. “Even if the problem is in the foot, significant compensation often occurs in the spine and neck, which can lead to further issues with comfort and mobility over time. We can address and alleviate some of these secondary issues.”
Jennings shared a case involving a cow with nerve damage that had lost most of its functionality in its tail and hind legs. With a combination of acupuncture and chiropractic treatment, the cow regained enough sensation and control to deliver a calf successfully.
“That was the case that sold me on it being something that I needed to continue to learn and utilize,” Jennings said. “I’ve had a handful here that have had pretty significant nerve deficits from various injuries or lameness and all of them have responded, really favorably with pretty dramatic results.”
The acupuncture and chiropractic services at the OSU VMTH provide both large and small animals with a supportive approach to health care. By integrating these therapies with traditional veterinary practices, OSU veterinarians aim to enhance the comfort and long-term well-being of their patients.
Dr. Melissa Raymond recently completed her acupuncture certification, joining Dr. Lara Sypniewski as the second primary care clinician to provide this service.
TARGETING INFANT TUMORS
A NEW HOPE FOR CANCER TREATMENT
Atreatment for one of the deadliest childhood cancers is undergoing testing at Oklahoma State University.
Neuroblastoma is the most common type of extracranial solid tumor in infants and primarily affects those under 5 years old. Despite advances in treatment, more than half of children diagnosed with neuroblastoma don’t survive, and many others face long-term health challenges.
However, groundbreaking research by Dr. Natarajan Aravindan and his team at OSU may hold the key to not only improving treatment for neuroblastoma but also revolutionizing how we approach cancer therapy.
For the past three decades, Aravindan, a College of Veterinary Medicine physiological sciences professor, has focused on understanding the molecular mechanisms behind therapy-induced stress in aggressive cancers, including neuroblastoma, brain, head and neck, thyroid, breast,
colon, endometrial, ovarian and bladder cancers.
His work aims to uncover how these stress responses contribute to tumor progression and resistance to treatment, intending to develop more effective therapies to improve patient outcomes.
Aravindan, the Kerr Endowed Chair for Biomedical Laser and BioPhotonics Research and Williams Company Foundation Presidential Professor, first became interested in molecular oncology when studying the role of intercellular, bystander and abscopal signaling events in response to radiation therapy.
“While the primary cancer treatments seemed to be effective, the occurrence of frequent tumor recurrence in rapidly decreasing timelines is a grim reality,” Aravindan said. “It is the tumors that escape or resist the primary treatment modalities that are hard to treat after and often correspond to poor clinical outcomes.”
There is a gap in understanding why some patients respond and others don’t survive. This is true for both children and adults faced with deadly solid tumors, which led Aravindan to focus his research interest on molecular oncology.
Aravindan is a champion for One Health research, as his own work is fueled by the desire to create therapeutics that will eventually improve both animal and human health. Although his lab studies diverse solid cancers, the primary focus is neuroblastomas. His research has identified how tumors evolve through genetic and molecular changes in response to chemotherapy and radiation and has led to new moleculartargeted therapeutic approaches to overcome this reprogramming.
His lab develops unique disease models based on human cancers, as well as novel preclinical models of residual disease and complex
transgenic mice. These models help study how cancers evolve after standard treatments and are used to develop new therapeutic strategies that can be quickly translated into clinical practice.
“The study focus is on defining the thus far unrealized existence of cancer cell plasticity, its function in tumor evolution and, in developing molecular targeted maintenance therapy for these children where there is no effective treatment currently available,” Aravindan said.
As the most common extra cranial solid tumor in children, Neuroblastoma comprises one-tenth of all childhood cancer deaths. To date, immunotherapies have been relatively unsuccessful in combatting neuroblastoma. Understanding the drivers and mechanisms behind tumor immune evasion is crucial for developing effective treatments for high-risk and therapy-resistant tumors.
Dr. Aravindan spends time mentoring undergraduate and graduate students in his labs, inspiring and teaching future researchers.
“OVERALL, THE STUDY PROVIDES COMPELLING EVIDENCE THAT RD3 PLAYS A KEY ROLE IN STABILIZING THE TUMOR’S ENVIRONMENT AND SHIFTS
A HUGE ARCHETYPE IN THE UNDERSTANDING OF THE BIOLOGY OF TUMOR IMMUNE EVASION.”
DR. NATARAJAN ARAVINDAN, COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE PHYSIOLOGICAL SCIENCES PROFESSOR
While Aravindan’s lab examined the genetic, epigenetic and molecular differences between clinically favorable primary tumors and highrisk, aggressive metastatic disease, they identified Retinal Degeneration Protein 3 (RD3), a protein typically associated with the eye. These researchers noticed a correlation between RD3 loss and advanced disease stage with poor clinical outcomes.
“These, thus far unrealized, novel findings opened doors to address the crucial and warranted gaps in disease evolution,” Aravindan said. “Investigating RD3 will define its driver role and could identify a novel molecular targeted therapy for children affected with deadly cancers where no therapy is currently available.”
His lab team discovered that RD3 is present in various tissues of both adults and fetuses, not just in the eye. They also found that RD3 expression is lost when tumors are exposed to therapy, which can help predict how neuroblastoma will progress. The protein also plays a crucial role in stabilizing the evolution of neuroblastoma.
“With our understanding of RD3’s significance in neuroblastoma evolution and prognosis, we identified that RD3 determines immune cell type composition in the neuroblastoma tumor microenvironment,” Aravindan said.
The study showed that RD3 plays a crucial role in maintaining the immune
environment around neuroblastoma tumors, and its loss allows the tumor to evade the immune system and grow.
“Our studies uniquely identified the availability and abundance of RD3 beyond retina and defined its constitutive expression in all human adult and fetal tissues,” Aravindan said. “As a novel finding, we identified the significant loss of RD3 in extremely plastic, aggressive, undifferentiated tumor cells, correlating its loss to cellular metastatic potential, disease aggravation and clinical outcomes underscoring the role of RD3 loss in tumor progression.”
Aravindan also said their bed-tobench studies affirmed an ongoing acquisition of RD3 loss with therapy pressure and its significance in tumor evolution. The team discovered RD3 helps control the activity of genes in the tumor, which prevents the cancer from hiding from the immune system. When RD3 is lost, the immune cells that should attack the tumor (specifically CD4+ and CD8+ T cells) have trouble reaching the tumor, allowing it to grow and spread.
It’s important to note that the loss of RD3 can happen during treatment, making the cancer harder to fight and helping it evolve. The researchers also found a set of 27 genes linked to RD3 that could be used to predict how the tumor will behave or respond to therapy.
“Overall, the study provides compelling evidence that RD3 plays
a key role in stabilizing the tumor’s environment and shifts a huge archetype in the understanding of the biology of tumor immune evasion,” Aravindan said. “This paves a way to the development of novel and effective molecular targeted therapy for deadly cancers.”
Very few researchers have made progress in understanding the mechanisms and biology of the tumor immune microenvironment. This may be the first study focused on this topic and the first that recognizes the driver and mechanisms involving tumor immune evasion. The outcomes of this study identify RD3 as the genetic driver that dictates tumor immune evasion.
“Therapeutic delivery of RD3 could serve as the new and effective maintenance therapy for infants presented with the progressive disease that defies the current clinical intensive multimodal therapy,” Aravindan said. “This could save the lives of countless children and could change the quality of life of infants who suffered high-risk tumors.”
In the future, Aravindan’s lab plans to explore how tumor cell RD3 rearranges the cancer cell and T cell metabolism. Ultimately, the team wants to understand how RD3 affects cancer and immune cells, particularly how it influences their energy use and behavior, which is key to their ability to fight the tumor.
The goal is to develop a treatment that targets RD3 directly, especially for cancers that don’t respond well to standard treatments. Since RD3 is important in many types of solid tumors, his approach could help improve outcomes for patients with a variety of hard-to-treat cancers, not just neuroblastoma.
“Cancer is not a simple disease, and there are many intricate molecular interactions that coordinate its survival beyond clinical therapy,” Aravindan said. “Countering anything less than the primary genetic determinant of the response will open Pandora’s box of issues that compensate and complement disease progression.”
Pet Care Progress
CVM re-opens Small Animal Internal Medicine Service
The Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine is known for its dedication for delivering top-tier education to veterinary students and outstanding care to clients.
Now, with the opening of the Small Animal Internal Medicine Service, the college is poised to elevate its impact even further. This newly
reopened service will not only enhance clinical training for students but also offer cutting-edge diagnostics and treatments for pets in need.
In summer 2024, OSU’s SAIM service opened under the guidance of Dr. Ana Costa, clinical associate professor. Costa has been a board-certified internist since 2014. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree
from Escola Universitaria Vasco da Gama in Portugal and completed a SAIM residency and master’s at Washington State University.
Establishing a small animal internal medicine service is essential for the community, students and patients alike. By consulting directly with an internist, clients will gain a clearer understanding of their pet’s condition
Dr. Ana Costa gives Gator a physical exam.
and can collaborate on tailored treatment plans that suit their family’s needs.
“The service fosters a culture of compassion, expertise and education, ultimately improving pet health and well-being,” said Miranda Hicks, veterinary technician.
The SAIM service can see more complex cases such as gastrointestinal disorders, inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune disorders, respiratory problems, urinary conditions and more.
“Access to this next-level care often reduces unnecessary suffering by lowering stress and anxiety in affected families, as well as improve overall animal health,” Costa said.
In addition to serving pre-existing and new clients, the new SAIM service aims to serve as a valuable resource for primary veterinarians in Oklahoma. The service will offer support for discussions, guidance and referrals for complex cases requiring advanced diagnostics and detailed treatment plans.
“We hope to strengthen communication between primary and specialty care to empower the primary veterinary population and help support their patients and clients,” Costa said.
Access to an internal medicine service offers fourth-year veterinary students invaluable hands-on experiences with complex and chronic cases, enhancing their diagnostic and treatment skills through exposure to advanced tools and techniques.
With the launch of this service, CVM students now can immerse themselves in hands-on learning alongside a skilled specialist.
The SAIM rotation allows students to explore complex cases involving actual patients with several health problems. The rotation helps students understand the thought process of diagnosing.
“This rotation benefits students because you get to see very complex cases where the patients all have multiple problems,” said Alyssa Loveday, fourth-year veterinary student.
“Access to this next-level care often reduces unnecessary suffering by lowering stress and anxiety in affected families, as well as improve overall animal health.”
DR. ANA COSTA, CLINICAL ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
Dr. Ana Costa gives Archie an exam during his appointment.
CIRCLE OF LIFE
CVM RANCH IS A HUB FOR HORSE AND CATTLE REPRODUCTIVE RESEARCH
For years, the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine has been at the forefront of advancements in theriogenology, the study of animal reproduction.
The CVM Ranch, a key component in hands-on learning, serves as both a teaching site and a research hub, where veterinarians and students investigate reproductive health, fertility and genetic advancements in cattle and horses.
OSU researchers are advancing important production techniques, such as artificial insemination and embryo transfer, and are working to improve livestock reproductive health.
“The CVM Ranch has a heavy clinical caseload of stallions and mares, allowing us to conduct robust retrospective clinical studies relevant to the equine breeding industry,” said Dr. Giovana Catandi, assistant professor of theriogenology. “The ranch also has a decent-sized herd of teaching and research mares, allowing us to conduct more controlled and detailed investigations using research animals.”
Catandi started at the CVM at the beginning of 2024 and quickly became immersed in the research taking place at the ranch. One of her first studies since beginning at OSU focused on comparing stallion sperm mixing techniques.
Catandi and her team looked at how different methods of mixing sperm after cushion centrifugation, a routine technique used to concentrate stallion semen, affect the quality and lifespan of the sperm. Specifically, researchers compared using a pipette and a vortex to mix the sperm. The pipette process involves manually drawing up and releasing the sperm in a pipette and the vortex is a machine that spins the sample at high speeds.
Catandi said they decided to compare mixing techniques because vortex mixing is an easier and quicker mixing method compared to pipette mixing, but no studies had ever been made to compare the effects of these mixing methods on sperm quality on stallions or other species.
“Vortex mixing is more user-friendly, quicker and requires less disposable supplies. However, it does require a small investment in purchasing the
Pipettes are a common tool used in mixing stallion semen.
vortex mixer,” Catandi said. “Pipette mixing is preferred in practice because many people think vortex mixing may damage sperm cells, but pipetting may waste more sperm cells because small bits of the semen attach to the walls of the pipette.”
The study tested different speeds and times for the vortex mixer and compared them with different pipetting methods to determine the effect of each technique on sperm quality, longevity and clumping. Sperm clumping is a common problem after centrifugation and reduces sperm quality because clumped sperm cannot swim properly and fertilize an oocyte. The study found that neither mixing method had a significant effect on important sperm quality. There were fewer clumps found in vortex-mixed samples, but neither method harmed sperm.
When deciding which technique to use, Catandi suggested a vortex mixer may be the preferred option for veterinarians and others who work
“THE CVM RANCH HAS A HEAVY CLINICAL CASELOAD OF STALLIONS AND MARES, ALLOWING US TO CONDUCT ROBUST RETROSPECTIVE CLINICAL STUDIES RELEVANT TO THE EQUINE BREEDING INDUSTRY.”
DR. GIOVANA CATANDI, ASSISTANT PROFESSOR OF THERIOGENOLOGY
with stallion semen collection and preservation.
“If they have access to a vortex, this may be a quicker and easier semen pellet mixing method that can be safely used, without worrying that it may damage sperm quality, and maybe optimizing sperm recovery after centrifugation,” Catandi said.
“This research might not directly help improve sperm preservation techniques or success rates of AI, but it elucidates that vortex mixing is a safe option for sperm mixing after centrifugation as it has no detrimental effects on sperm quality of longevity.”
Catandi said the next potential steps for research in this area would be to examine the effects of vortex mixing for sperm that will be frozen or evaluate its safety for mixing sperm from other species that also commonly use centrifugation in semen processing.
Catandi isn’t the only theriogenologist performing exciting research at the CVM Ranch. Dr. Dale Kelley, assistant professor of theriogenology, is in the second year of a three-year study to develop new, safe
and effective antimicrobial strategies to treat antimicrobial resistance. With funding and support from the Grayson Jockey Club Foundation, Kelley is using gallium nitrate to treat bacterial endometritis in mares.
Endometritis is inflammation in the uterine lining that occurs just after giving birth. Treatment typically involves intra-uterine antibiotics, but Kelley is exploring an alternative approach by using gallium as disruptor of bacterial iron-dependent processes.
Iron is important for most bacteria because it’s needed for important processes like making DNA and protecting against stress. Gallium is a metal that is very similar to iron, and some bacteria can’t tell the difference between them. Because gallium can’t work the way iron does in the body, it ends up replacing iron in the bacteria’s proteins, which causes these proteins to stop working. This disrupts the bacteria’s ability to survive, essentially starving them and leading to their death.
Kelley first looked at gallium as a treatment option during his residency at Texas A&M University where his
mentor was doing research using it as a treatment for Rhoddococcus equi. Kelley did a literature review and found there was other work to look at its use to treat various bacterial infections.
“Growing public awareness of antimicrobial resistances underscores the need to develop alternative therapies for the treatment of uterine infections,” Kelley said. “Although antimicrobial resistance is often considered to be concerning in equine reproduction, there are few studies evaluating changes in antibiotic resistance in bacteria isolates from mares’ uteri.”
The study is broken into a three-part progressive process. In the initial phase, the goal was to confirm the effectiveness of gallium as an antimicrobial agent against several different types of bacteria. Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniea. A second study would measure the levels of gallium in the blood and the uterus after different doses are given to determine how much active gallium is needed to treat infections.
“At this point, we have determined minimum inhibitory concentrations
From left: Malorie Kittle, Dr. Dale Kelley and Dr. Giovana Catandi all contribute to CVM ranch stallion collection efforts.
(MIC) for E. coli, Psuedomonas aurogenosa, Klebsiella pneumonia and Strep. Equi,” Kelley said. “The data looks promising as a treatment for Psuedomonas, the other bacteria had high MICs, suggesting it may not be as effective against them.”
The final phase will look at experimentally infecting mares, treating and then breeding them to ensure mares can get pregnant. It will also focus on the safety of gallium as a uterine treatment.
“Since gallium nitrate was used as a chemotherapy agent in humans, it seems unlikely to have systemin issues,” Kelley said. “We want to ensure that it does not negatively impact uterine health, causing fibrosis or adhesions.”
After the last phase of this is complete, the next study would be a field
trial where treatments are performed in real clinical cases.
The CVM Ranch remains an invaluable resource for veterinary researchers, practicing veterinarians and students pursuing either path of the profession. The ranch supports a wide range of studies to improve livestock reproductive health. With its extensive facilities and a dedicated team of theriogenologists, the ranch provides a unique environment that fosters both innovative research and hands-on learning, advancing the field of animal reproduction at every level of the profession.
Catandi emphasized the theriogenologists’ different backgrounds and areas of expertise, noting that while each brings a unique perspective
to the table, their shared passion for advancing animal reproduction creates a collaborative and supportive environment.
“The theriogenology team at the ranch is diverse and inspiring,” Catandi said. “Having other theriogenology faculty interested in research allows us to be involved in more studies and contribute to each other’s studies and ideas.”
This collaborative environment, paired with the ranch’s resources, fosters groundbreaking research and continuous advancements in reproduction, benefiting not only the veterinary field but also the broader agricultural and equine industries.
Dr. Giovana Catandi measures stallion semen after collection.
REUNIONS: GETTING TOGETHER
CLASS OF 1974
Back row, from
Ron Mollet, John Rector, Robert Moak, Robert Schaefer, Paul Klinger, Gary Glisan, David Haworth, Cody Lockhart, Patrick Thistlethwaite, Ron Wallis and Gene Schieber
Front row, from left: Daryll Guthrie, Ronald Fallon, Stephen Walker, Ewell Center, Eileen Johnson, Brenda Corbin, James Carpenter, Stephen Chambers, Phillip McKinney, Bruce Kunkle, Lafe Burnett and Julie Clements
CLASS OF 1979
CLASS OF 1994
CLASS OF 1989
CLASS OF 2014
Front
left:
Back row, from left: Mike Alexander, Carl Davis, Julie Flood-Hoying, Stacy Pedersen and Leroy Meissen
Middle row, from left: Robin O’Neil, Elizabeth Le Count, Vera Adams, Marilyn Wolgamott, Kim Haynes and Lori Hardin
row, from left: Franka Figari, Debbie Alexander, Valerie Romo, Jan Johnston-Tharp, Lucette Beall, Stephanie Myers. Jennifer Pierotti and Jamie Augenstein
Back row, from left: Laura Jacobson, Roxanne Witt, Jacque Boehm, Rachel Neese, Kami Eckles, Nicole Mason, Heather Rhoden, Sadie Hail and Lauren Kinter
Middle row, from left: Helen Hoerler and Jordan Butler
Front row, from left: Melissa Raymond, Jill Brunkenhoefer, Shannon Werner, Tim Werner, Emily Kirk, Audra Blasi, Rob Pieratt and Andrew Dunn
From left: Harry Wilson, Brad Hildabrand, Francine Liebel and Jimmy Fuchs
From left: Doug Nightengale, Barbara Dunn, Kimberly Carter, Rosemarie Strong, Jeff Nightengale, Robert McLaughlin, Troy Shelby and Craig Jones
Norman Kenneth Adams, DVM, of Yukon, Oklahoma, passed away on Jan. 14, 2024. He was 91. For the last 13 years, Norman and Loretta Adams have been residents of Spanish Cove Retirement Village in Yukon. Norman, fondly referred to as “Doc” or Dr. Adams, was born to Virgil and Osa Adams on Sept. 10, 1932, in Danville, Illinois. Coming from a home where academic achievement was a top priority, Adams graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1957 with a Bachelor of Science in animal science and a DVM. He later completed two postdoctoral degrees in animal pathology and animal dermatology, both from Purdue University. Norman practiced veterinary medicine at Rock Knoll Animal Hospital in Southwest Oklahoma City. Adams’ greatest sense of joy came from his marriage to Loretta Newell, with whom he had shared his life for 67 years. This loving union produced three children: April Greenlee, Jeff Adams and Amy Reiber. Adams was a devoted grandfather to Sarah Bishop, Amanda Rook, Lauren Adams and Kendall Adams. He enjoyed four great-grandchildren, Ida Bishop, Moses Bishop, Clementine McGarry and Piper Adams. As an only child, Adams was preceded in death by his parents, Osa and Virgil Adams and his lifelong best friend, Dr. Franklin Baker. He is survived by his wife, Loretta Adams, his three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.
Source: The Oklahoman
Delwin Don “Doc” Allen, DVM, of Friona, Texas, died on April 11, 2024. He was 72. Allen was born March 17, 1952, in Mangum, Oklahoma, to June and Winfred Allen. He attended schools in Reed and Mangum, Oklahoma, before attending OSU, where he graduated with his DVM. He married Patricia “Patsy” Lamson on Jan. 1, 1980, in Ponca City, Oklahoma. After working in Oklahoma and Texas, the Allens accepted the opportunity with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to move their family to Friona in 1990, where he worked as a federal veterinarian for the USDA for 28 years, the IIC in Friona for 18 years and the Texas Panhandle Circuit Supervisor for seven years. He is preceded in death by his parents, June and Winfred Allen. Those who carry on his legacy include his wife of 44 years, Patsy Allen of Friona; their children; Jesse Allen and his children Jaxxn of Wheeler; Jenni and Luci of Amarillo; Alice and her husband, Aaron Doyle and their daughter, Clare of Fort Worth, Texas; Emily and her husband, Andrew Stowers and their daughters, Rylee and Layla of Amarillo, Texas; sister Judy Jenkins and husband Bob of El Reno, Oklahoma; and sister Kathy Haley and husband Guy of Granite, Oklahoma.
Source: Hansfard Family Funeral Home
Byron W. Behring, DVM, died on May 24, 2024. He was 88. Behring was born on Dec. 23, 1935, to Loran and Pauline Behring in Garber, Oklahoma. He grew up working on the family farm with his father, participating in FFA activities, and graduating from Garber High School in 1954. Behring earned his DVM in 1959 from OSU CVM. During his time at OSU, Byron was a member of FarmHouse Fraternity, served as president of the Student Union Activities Board and was an active member of the Student American Veterinary Medical Association. Immediately after completing his State Board Examination in June 1959, Behring married Betty Sue Rooker of McLoud, Oklahoma. Together, they moved to Memphis, Tennessee, while Byron completed his veterinary residency. They moved back to Oklahoma City, where Behring started his professional journey as a small animal veterinarian. Soon after, his career path shifted as he joined the USDA APHIS Veterinary Services as a field veterinarian working with large animals. The Behrings moved to Enid in 1966 to raise their family and plant roots in the community. Throughout his career, Behring continued working on his family farm and was a well-respected Garfield County farming community member. His friends and neighbors affectionately referred to him as “Doc,” and he wore that name with pride. When Behring retired, he and Betty traveled nationwide, collecting art pieces and making memories. They found a wonderful retirement community in Mesa, Arizona and traveled there each year to escape the cold Oklahoma winters. Behring is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Betty Behring of Enid; daughter Robin Reid and her husband, Bill Reid of Houston; son Mark Behring and his wife, Cate Behring and daughter Kendal Behring of Edmond; and his younger brother, Darrel Behring of Euless, Texas.
Source: Enid Live
Frederick “Fred” George Ferguson, DVM, died on Aug. 8, 2024. He was 87. Born on Dec. 30, 1936, in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Ferguson was the son of the late Harold and Lydia Ferguson. Ferguson graduated from Green Bay East High School in 1955. After high school, Ferguson attended the University of Wisconsin, graduating in 1959 with a bachelor’s degree in biology. At a 1957 Wisconsin football game, Ferguson met Joelle Remington. On Aug. 22, 1959, they were married in Wisconsin Dells. The Fergusons began their married life by moving to Stillwater, where he was accepted to OSU. In 1963, Ferguson received his DVM and began work at a veterinary practice. In 1965, Fred earned a master’s degree from Tulane University in New Orleans. He then accepted a veterinary position at the ASPCA of New York City and later earned his Ph.D. in immunopathology
from the University of Pennsylvania. In 1970, Ferguson was offered a position at Penn State as a professor of veterinary science. The Fergusons settled in Park Forest Village, making State College their permanent home. Along with teaching and research, he served as director of the Animal Resource Program, playing a significant role in its expansion. He also served as director of the Centralized Biological Laboratory. Fred retired from PSU in 2002 and continued to work in various consulting positions. He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Joan Ellen “Joelle” Ferguson; his children, Erin (Bob) Crow of Alexandria, Virginia; Steve (Bev) Ferguson of Carson City, Nevada; and Paula (Will) Walker of Saline, Michigan. Fred was preceded in death by his son, Scott Ferguson; daughter, Christine Thomson; and son-in-law, John Thomson. Ferguson also leaves grandchildren Laura (Derrick), Michael, Amanda, Megan, Emma, Gretchen and Cameron; and greatgrandchildren, Nolan, Lucy and Carson. Fred was a brother to four siblings. He is survived by his brother, Robert, of Green Bay; and many nieces and nephews. Fred’s sisters, Pat, Joyce and Lois, preceded him in death.
Source: Legacy.com
Stacy Brittain Fry, DVM, died on Oct. 24, 2024. He was 74. During his childhood, he lived in Bethany, Oklahoma. At 14, he was willing to work hard by going on wheat harvest with his paternal grandfather, starting in Thomas, Oklahoma, and continuing to Montana. He drove combines and wheat trucks, although he was only 14. While spending time in Thomas, he shadowed a selftrained veterinarian, which piqued his interest in veterinary medicine. He graduated from Putnam City High School, Oklahoma City, in 1968. Next, he continued his education at OSU, pursuing his passion for veterinary medicine. He married Melody Barr in 1970 while in college. They had two children. He graduated in 1975 and set up a private practice in Tuttle, Oklahoma, serving the community until he retired. He married Mary Lou Bergin in 1979 and they shared many family adventures. He is preceded in death by his parents, Keith Fry and Leona Fry. He is survived by two children, Molly Sue Thompson (Chet) and Kelly Brittain Fry (Shannon), stepchildren, Peggy Bergin and Becky Bergin, sister, Novell Wilson (Mike), grandchildren, Dakota Gilbert (Ally), Maddi Thompson and Tate Thompson, Cody Lemaster and Jeremy Hooper and one great-grandchild, Raeleigh Gilbert. May his memory be a source of strength and joy as we cheer on the Pokes.
Source: Ireland and Son Funeral Home and Chapel
Gary Bernal Gibbons, DVM, died on Feb. 25, 2024, at the Guardian Angels Care Facility in Elk River, Minnesota. He was 90. Gibbons was born on March 2, 1933, in Devil’s Lake, North Dakota. He graduated from Lakota High School in 1951. He later received a degree in agricultural education from North Dakota State University, where he minored in chemistry and zoology. Following graduation from NDSU, he served in the U.S. Army for two years and spent 18 months in Korea. After returning to the U.S., he married his university sweetheart, Barbara (Bobby) Vaughn. In 1963, Gibbons graduated from the OSU CVM. He and Bobby then moved to suburban Minneapolis, where Gibbons was employed at a small animal hospital. In 1965, he built and opened his small animal hospital and eventually owned and operated three practices in the Twin Cities. The Gibbons started their family by adopting three children, Michael, Patrick and Theresa. Bobby died in 1994 because of pancreatic cancer and Gibbons retired from veterinary medicine in 1995. In 1995, Gibbons married Glenna Jackson Wefald, who had three adult children, Joanne, Michael and Paul. They purchased a lake home near Alexandria, Minnesota, where they lived for 20 years. Gibbons was preceded in death by his parents, Bernal and Emma Gibbons and a sister, Jeannine Watson. He is survived by his loving wife Glenna Gibbons of Otsego, Minnesota; his children, Michael (Leslie) Gibbons of Chaska, Minnesota; Patrick (Kimberly) Gibbons of Lakeville, Minnesota; Theresa Gibbons of Lake Worth, Florida; stepchildren, Joanne (John) Jacobson of Ramsey, Minnesota; Michael Wefald of Chanhassen, Minnesota; Paul Wefald (Julie Gordan) of New Castle, Colorado; grandchildren Jason Gibbons, Dallas Gibbons, Jack Gibbons, Jett Gibbons and Daniella Gibbons; grandchildren Daniel (Camille) Jacobson and Kari Jacobson (Antoine Gilbert); great-grandchildren Abram Gilbert, Araya Gilbert, Caleb Jacobson and Harper Jacobson.
Source: Alexandria Echo Press
Kenneth Gunkel, DVM, of Camp Verde, Arizona, died on March 27, 2024. He was born on Feb. 12, 1947, in Quanah, Texas, to Ewing Sr. and Ruby (Samples) Gunkel. Kenneth grew up in Eldorado, Texas, where he graduated in 1965. He then pursued a DVM from OSU and practiced for 38 years in Lawton, Oklahoma. Upon retiring, he moved to Camp Verde. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, classic cars, cooking and was a creative craftsman, an avid OSU fan and supporter. He was preceded in death by both his parents, his sister Faye (Gunkel) Dickinson, brothers Ewing Gunkel Jr. and Jerry Gunkel. He is survived by his beloved high school sweetheart and wife of 55 years Elaine (Thomason) of Camp Verde; sons Grant Gunkel (Tia) of Chandler, Arizona, and Greg Gunkel (Janna) of Cypress, Texas, and seven grandchildren..
Source: Westcott Funeral Home
Helen Elaine Jordan, DVM, of Staunton, Virginia, previously of Stillwater, died on Dec. 31, 2023. She was 97. She was born on July 19, 1926, in Rockingham County, Virginia, the daughter of the late Oliver and Iva Rebecca Jordan (née Evers). Jordan earned her undergraduate degree from Bridgewater College. In 1948, she completed training as a medical technologist at Cornell University. While working toward a master’s degree at Virginia Tech, she had the opportunity to enroll in the veterinary program at the University of Georgia. In 1955, she earned her master’s at Tech and her DVM at Georgia, becoming one of the first female veterinarians in the United States. She earned a Ph.D. in parasitology and taught at Georgia and OSU, where she joined the faculty as a full professor, retiring in 1993. Jordan was known for her adventurous spirit and inquisitive mind but will be remembered for her unwavering encouragement to live life to the fullest. She is survived by sister June Jordan; brother John Jordan (Kay); sister-in-law Linda Jordan; and three generations of beloved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her partner, Dr. Julia McHale; sister Doady Didawick (Guy); brother Oliver William Jordan, Jr.; and sister-in-law Ruth Jordan.
Source: Johnson Funeral and Cremation Service
Margaret King, DVM, died on Jan. 25 in Guthrie, Oklahoma. She was 78. King graduated from the University of Central Oklahoma in 1969 with majors in health and physical education and biology, and minors in education and chemistry. She was honored in 2003 as a distinguished graduate from UCO. King obtained a Ph.D. in medical physiology and biophysics from the OU Health Sciences Center Graduate College in 1975. While working as a cancer research scientist for the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, King received her MBA in 1983 from Oklahoma City University. In 1993, she graduated from OSU with a DVM. When the Alfred P. Murrah building was bombed in 1995, King volunteered as a veterinarian to treat the rescue dogs at the bombing site. King opened Acre View Pet Hospital in Edmond, Oklahoma, and became involved in establishing animal care centers. More recently, she worked for the Edmond Free to Live Animal Sanctuary. As an expert in her field, King served as an educator and consultant throughout her career. She wrote a column about pets in the Edmond Sun for several years. After King sold Acre View, she established a mobile veterinary practice. In 2007, the Bank of Oklahoma presented King with a Small Business of the Year Award. King was honored with so many accolades throughout her distinguished career.
Source: The Oklahoman
William “Bill” Reece Lance, DVM, died on June 29, 2024, in Casper, Wyoming. He was 82. Lance was born July 8, 1941, in Effingham, Illinois, to Reece and Jessie Lance. He spent his childhood and adolescence in Williams Camp in Fayette County, Illinois. After graduating high school at 16, Lance attended Eastern Illinois University for a couple of years, then earned his DVM at OSU in 1965. In the last semester of vet school, he accepted a commission as a first lieutenant in the Air Force. He earned a master’s degree in 1971 and a Ph.D. in veterinary pathology in 1980 at Colorado State University. During his early years, he practiced as a veterinarian during and after his service in the Air Force. In the 1990s, Lance formed several companies, ultimately becoming Wildlife Pharmaceuticals Inc., specializing in drugs used to immobilize many wildlife species throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Europe and Africa. In 2004, he formed Zoopharm Inc., which supplied pharmaceutical formulations to nearly all zoos and animal collections in the U.S. In pursuing more effective and compassionate drug dosing, Lance collaborated with partners in 2008 to form SR Veterinary Technologies Inc. This business was used to develop a polymeric controlled release technology used mainly for pain control in domestic species. It allowed veterinarians to dose animals less frequently with a more effective and longer duration of pain control. He is survived by his wife, Sharon Crain. They met on a blind date in his last year of vet school and were married several months later, as Lance was being assigned to Japan. They were together for 59 years. They had two children, Dawn Kreikemeier (Dean) and John Lance (Kimberly). He is also survived by four grandchildren, Kolby Smith (Mariah), Jaime Kreikemeier, Teegan Hand (Hadley), William Lance, and three great-grandchildren, Kaiden, Brooke and Maddie Smith. He was preceded in death by his parents, Reece and Jessie Lance, his siblings, Don Lance, Wanda Pridmore and Helen Yancey.
Source: Newcomer Funeral Home
Stephen Alan Letzig, DVM, died on March 10, 2024. He was 72. He was born on June 25, 1951, in Blackwell, Oklahoma, to Paul A. and Marciadine M. (Biehler) Letzig. He was raised in Blackwell and graduated from high school in 1969. He attended OSU for his undergrad and was accepted into veterinary school, where he received his DVM in 1976. Upon graduation, he began working at the Pryor Veterinary Hospital and became a partner in 1978. Letzig married Susan Neff in 1972. They were married for 46 years before she passed away on Sept. 24, 2018. Preceding him in death were his parents; his wife Susan; and his two brothers-in-law, Douglas Parmley and Dave Davis. The
family includes his three children, Matt Letzig and wife Angela of Sand Springs; Amy Burroughs and husband Josh of Edmond; and Brian Letzig and wife Jamie of Tulsa; his sisters, Glinda Parmley and Teresa Davis, both of Oklahoma City; Cathy Hayes and husband Clark of Ponca City, and their families: Audra, Laurie, Alex, Rachel, Jordan, Cameron, Jayden, Chase, Matthew, Tony and Gatsby; his nine grandchildren are Catherine, Kayla, Stephanie, Alex, Garin, Alyssa, Zac, Liam and Lillie, and three great-grandchildren are Luke, Lyla and Austen. In-laws David Neff, Pat and Toni Neff, their children Zandra and Michael Neff, John and Carol Neff, their children Wallis Ann and Jim Neff, and numerous other relatives and friends.
Source: Warren-McElwain Mortuary and Cremation Services
Jan enjoyed 58 years together. Martin founded and operated Sherry Lane Animal Hospital, Knox Park Animal Hospital in Dallas and finally Meadow Brook Animal Hospital in McKinney, Texas. While doing cancer research, he was the staff veterinarian at Morton Cancer and Wadley Institute. Martin mainly practiced small animal medicine but also loved raising cattle and horses on his land in Melissa. They have four sons: James, Charles, Mark and Steven. He officiated the weddings of three of his sons: James to Lena, Charlie to Cory, Steven to Jenniffer and his granddaughter, Tatum to Micah Hays. He was preceded in death by his parents, James and Ernestine Martin; his brother, Paul Martin, and his sister, Wanda Rott. He is survived by his wife, Jan, sons James and his wife Lena, Charlie and his wife Cory, Mark, Steven and his wife Jenniffer; grandchildren: Tatum and husband Micah, Kimberly, Kylah, David, Christy and Rachel and sister Jan Odenbach.
Wade Markham, DVM, died on Sept. 20, 2024. He was 83. He was born on Jan. 31, 1941, in Pryor to MW “Whistle” Markham and Maudine (Rush) Markham. She graduated from Locust Grove High School and continued his education at OSU. He graduated from the OSU CVM in just three years and was among the top three in his class. He married the love of his life, Louise Day, on Nov. 19, 1959, in Locust Grove. Markham coached all his children and his wife in sports and was very instrumental in forming the Vinita Little League football and getting the school wrestling program started in Vinita. He and his veterinary partner, Gene Frie, won the 1974 International Finals Rodeo in team roping, the first Oklahoma cowboys to accomplish this feat. He was preceded in death by his parents, a brother, Maurice Markham, and a sister, Pat Ragsdale. The family includes his wife Louise, his children, Clint Markham and wife Kathy, Marsha Hawkins and husband Darry, Todd Markham and wife Michelle, all of Vinita, grandchildren, Cale Markham and wife Dana, Terri Bryant and husband Austin, Heath Hawkins, Austin Markham, Dayton Markham, one great-grandchild, Charlie Bryant, and one sister, Betsy Willis of Catoosa.
Source: Legacy.com
Ernest S. Martin, DVM, died at home surrounded by loving family on Oct. 22, 2024. He was 82. He was born May 12, 1942, in Williston, North Dakota, to James Fielding Martin and Ernestine Scott Martin. He was raised on a large ranch with his brother, Paul, and two sisters Wanda and Jan. While attending Williston High School, he won many awards, but his most cherished was a trip to the United Nations in New York City. He served as a state FFA officer and won the champion 4-H beef showman award. He attended North Dakota State for two years and was a member of FarmHouse Fraternity. In 1966, he completed his DVM from OSU and was awarded a postdoctoral research grant in physiology. During that time, he met and married Janice Louise Smith. Ernie and
Source: Submitted
Cynthia L. North, DVM, died in Hamilton, New Jersey, on Feb. 26, 2024, after a short illness. She was 60. “Cyndy” was born to Max and Mary Bird in Larned, Kansas. She was later adopted by Marvin North. North was a graduate of Putnam City High School in Oklahoma. She earned a bachelor’s degree and a DVM at OSU (1982-1990). After several years of practice, North returned to school and earned a master’s in business administration from Purdue University’s Daniels School of Business in 2003. The last 22 years of her career were dedicated to working in the veterinary pharmaceutical industry. She started this career at Pfizer and then joined Zoetis in 2007. At the Zoetis headquarters in New Jersey, she advanced to the director of veterinary professional services position. She was passionate about her work, where she interacted with people worldwide, which fulfilled her. As a Zoetis employee, North was instrumental in ushering two veterinary pain medication drugs into the United States: Librela and Solensia. She is survived by her mother, Mary North; her sister, Becky Hudson; her nephew, Zachary Hudson; and her beloved yellow lab, Ellie. She is also survived by her aunt, Linda Auld; her cousins, Jason Auld and Malia Pruitt and their children. North was preceded in death by a niece, Ashley and her father, Max Bird.
Source: Legacy.com
Kenneth Lee Reynolds, DVM, died on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 23, 2023. He was 74. Reynolds was born on Dec. 30, 1948, to Melvin Lee Reynolds and Betty Alice Reynolds in Tulsa. He graduated from OSU CVM in 1974. He practiced at Southwest Veterinary Clinic at Porter Hill and the
Animal Birth Control Clinic in Lawton. Reynolds took pride in serving the animals and their owners in the Comanche County area for over three decades. He performed over 300,000 spays and was proud to help fight pet overpopulation. Reynolds was very proud of his wife, Judith’s, achievements in the Army and medical career. His favorite pastime was working outside with his son, Ben, who was his best friend. Reynolds shared an interest and enjoyment with his daughter-in-law, Jamie, in reading about Oklahoma, American Civil War and WWII history. Reynolds is survived by his wife of 49 years, Lt. Col retired Judith A. Reynolds; son Benjamin Thomas Reynolds and his wife, Jamie Lynn (McGuire) Reynolds; son-in-law Clinton McGuire; granddaughter Kathryn Elizabeth; great-granddaughters Heidi Noelle, Edith Adeline and Florence Jane; a sister, Judy K. Wagner, her husband, Matt Wagner, and son Zachary Wagner; cats: Leon Russell, Cocoa, Alfred, Pumpkin Butters and Ninja and dog Presley.
Source: The Lawton Constitution
James Stuart Ruster, DVM, died on May 7, 2024, in Pauls Valley, Oklahoma. He was 86. Ruster was born June 1, 1937, in Muskegon, Michigan, to George Antonio and Reba Ester (Anderson) Ruster. He graduated from Northeast High School in Oklahoma City in 1956. He earned two bachelor’s of science degrees and his DVM from OSU. While earning his first degree at OSU, he met and married Ann Elizabeth Stephens in 1960. They were married for 63 years. Together, they raised three children. Ruster was drafted into the Army in 1960 and served in Korea for 13 months. He opened the Pauls Valley Veterinary Clinic in 1969. His mixed practice cared for various animals from Pauls Valley, Garvin County and beyond for 54 years. Ruster joined the Pauls Valley Volunteer Fire Department in 1972 and faithfully served the City of Pauls Valley for 30 years. Ruster started working with Boy Scout Troop 73 in 1972 with his son, David. He helped thenscoutmaster Dale “Doc” Hayhurst and later became the scoutmaster. He served Troop 73 for over 47 years and helped countless youth have adventures through scouting. More than 40 young men earned the rank of Eagle Scout under his leadership. Ruster was preceded in death by his parents, George and Reba Ruster; and brothers, Sherwood and Bruce Ruster. He is survived by his wife, Ann; sons David and Scott Ruster; daughter Jennifer and son-inlaw, Ray Samford; and two grandsons James and Andrew Samford.
Source: Garvin County News Star
Kenneth “Wayne” Sizelove, DVM, died on April 21, 2024. He was 76. Sizelove was raised at his family ranch in Slapout, Oklahoma, by his parents, Mary (Holmes) and Ivo Leon (Billy) Sizelove. He
graduated from Laverne High School in 1965 and continued his education at OSU, graduating with a DVM. During his college years, one of his highlights was the brotherhood and relationships built with his fraternity, Alpha Gamma Rho, and his veterinary colleagues. In those college years, a fraternity brother introduced him to his future wife, Julia Mae Roush. Sizelove was a faithful, providing husband for 53 years, a loving father to Holly, Kizzy, Charity, and Blake and a proud Papa Wayne to 13 grandkids. The Sizeloves made their home and established the Buffalo Veterinary Clinic in Buffalo, Oklahoma, where he practiced for over 40 years. He is preceded in death by his parents, Billy and Mary Sizelove. He is survived by his wife, Julia; his siblings Cary (Lizbeth) Sizelove, Jim (Sunday) Sizelove, Becky (Rodney) Guffy and Loren (Lyn) Sizelove; brother-in-law Clint (Pam) Roush, sister-inlaw Ginger (Ray) Read; children Holly (Brian) Stone of Kansas City, Missouri, Kizzy (Jason) Webb of Dallas, Charity (Roger) Teal of Laverne, and Blake (Abby) Sizelove of Purcell, Oklahoma. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, Julia and Sam Stone, Everett, Wyatt, Levi, Nash Webb, Luis, Felix, Mary Katherine, Luke Teal, Haddy, Truett, and Ivy Sizelove. He leaves many beloved cousins, nieces, nephews and friends.
Source: Tribute Archive
Benjamin Scott Turner, DVM, beloved husband, father and veterinarian, died on Nov. 26, 2023, in the care of his wife of 60 years, Linda Godbold Turner. He was 81. A native of Duplin County, North Carolina, Turner attended B.F. Grady School. After two years at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and one year at North Carolina State University, he moved to Stillwater, along with Linda, where he obtained his DVM in 1967. Upon graduation, Turner returned to North Carolina to practice veterinary medicine in a mixed large and small animal practice in Goldsboro. In 1970, he and his family relocated to Rocky Mount, where he became a partner in Riverside Veterinary Hospital. He served the city for the next 30 years. After retiring from his clinical practice in 2000, Turner chose to serve North Carolina as a veterinary hospital inspector. For the next 15 years, he traveled across North Carolina, ensuring the safety and compliance of clinics from the coast to the mountains and developed a love for the scenic back roads of the state. Turner also served as a president of the NC Veterinary Medical Association and was recognized as Distinguished Veterinarian of the Year in 2001. He was predeceased by his parents, Faison Smith Turner and Hattie Lee Herring Turner of Pink Hill, North Carolina. In addition to his wife, Turner is survived by his son, James Faison Turner, and wife, Robin Dunbar Turner of Danville, Virginia; and granddaughters Sarah Turner and her husband, Ryan Ross of Tucker, Georgia,
and Caroline Francisco and her husband, Joshua Francisco, of Danville; his sister, Annette Turner Tyndall of Pink Hill, as well as his sister-in-law, Phyllis Outlaw Godbold of Raleigh, North Carolina, and six nieces and nephews.
Source: Davis-Little Funerals
Thomas Joe Welsh, DVM, died on Aug. 3, 2024. He was 82. Welsh was born on Oct. 26, 1941, in Holdenville, Oklahoma, and was raised on a farm in Collinsville, Oklahoma. Welsh began his higher education at OSU, receiving a DVM in 1965. In 1966, he enlisted in the Army, earning the rank of captain. Following his discharge, he accepted the research associate position at Hines VA Hospital (Maywood, Illinois), focusing on advanced research studies in laboratory animal medicine. Welsh then entered a postdoctoral program at the University of Illinois at Chicago (College of Medicine) and was awarded a Ph.D. in Pathology. He accepted a position at Rush Medical Center (Chicago) as director of the Center for Comparative Research, where he worked for 30 years. Upon his retirement from Rush, he joined Northwestern Medical School (Chicago) as a faculty member and director of the Center for Comparative Medicine. Welsh maintained his position as the vice president of veterinary affairs and cofounder of PreLabs. For more than 30 years, Welsh was a consultant for the Lombard Veterinary Hospital (Lombard, Illinois) as a pathologist. During his brief military training program in Chicago, Tom met his future wife, Lenore, in the summer of 1966 and they were later married on an Army base in Giessen, Germany, in 1967. He was a devoted husband to Lenore, dedicated father to Andrew Welsh (Carrie) and Brad Welsh (Melanie), and a loving grandfather to Ryan and Rachel. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother.
Source: Hultgren Funeral Home
Howard L. Whitmore, DVM, died on June 19, 2024, at Apple Valley, Minnesota. He was 88. Born in Dallas, Wisconsin, on Dec. 3, 1935, to Charles and Clara Whitmore, Howard was raised on a dairy farm and graduated from Barron High School in 1953. Whitmore was married to the love of his life, Shirley Whitmore, for 42 years. They met dancing in Illinois. They also traveled the world together, and owned and operated a dairy farm in Brookings, South Dakota. Whitmore had a passion for veterinary medicine and dairy cattle reproduction. He earned his DVM from OSU in 1960. He then ran a successful veterinary practice in Barron, Wisconsin, for approximately 10 years, serving local farmers and giving back to the community he loved. He continued his education and earned his master’s and doctorate
degrees from the University of Wisconsin. He taught and did research for the University of Minnesota Veterinary School from 1974-80 and then for the University of Illinois as a professor of veterinary medicine from 1980-90. Surviving is a daughter Rhonda (Darwin); a son Rod; stepchildren Bill (Mary Jo) and Rebecca (Patti); and grandchildren Ellie (Kellyn), Talia (Matthew) and Mary Jo. Whitmore was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Shirley; and siblings Harold, Helen, Donald, Clifford, Blaine and Clarice.
Source: Barron News-Shield
Michael Jay Wiley, DVM, died on June 25, 2024. He was 69. Born and raised in the Oklahoma Panhandle, Wiley developed a deep love for animals early in life. He pursued his passion by attending OSU CVM, where he received an excellent education, graduating in 1980. Following his education, he settled in Norman, Oklahoma, where he lived most of his life, serving the community with unwavering dedication. In May 1999, Wiley received a plaque from the Oklahoma governor in recognition of his tireless efforts in assisting animal victims following the devastating tornados. His dedication to helping animals in crisis was further highlighted in a recent documentary on the May 2013 tornado victims, highlighting his unwavering support and expertise. He is survived by his two children, Erin Wiley of Washington, D.C., and Dr. Kevin Wiley (wife Alicia) of Oklahoma City; three grandchildren; Thomas Keith and Sara Mills, (their grandchildren Kazden Michael Keith, and Ryan Mills), who he raised as his own.
Source: Legacy.com
Randy Dean Winn, DVM, died on Aug. 8, 2024. He was 67. He was born on March 11, 1957, in Marlow, Oklahoma, to Jimmie Lou Coleman and Elmer Ray Winn. His family moved to Jones, Oklahoma, when he was in third grade. He had an older brother, Jimmy Ray Winn, and a younger brother, Bobby Cliff Winn. He was preceded in death by his parents and older brother. He graduated from Jones High School in Oklahoma in 1975, where he met the love of his life, Cheryl Lynn Humphries, and married her on June 7, 1975. As he had always wanted to be a veterinarian, he attended OSU, receiving his bachelor’s degree in animal science and then his DVM in 1983. After graduation, the Winns moved to Nevada and dedicated their lives to helping and saving animals. They were always blessed with many four-legged children through the 49 years of marriage. Winn was very active in the Henderson Community, providing animal care for the Henderson K-9 Unit and was the veterinarian for the Henderson Animal Shelter for 10 years. He was also the medical director of Veterinary Centers of America Black Mountain Hospital in Henderson, Nevada, for 30 years.
Source: Dignity Memorial
LEADING WITH SCIENCE.
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