A Message from the Dean “What’s in a name?” It is a fair question, as immortalized in the lines of William Shakespeare’s “Romeo and Juliet.” The answer in the case of Purdue Veterinary Medicine, is, “plenty!” And that is why, after careful thought and extensive discussion with faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends, we requested that our name be changed from “School” to “College.” I am very pleased that the Board of Trustees approved that request in December, effective with the start of the 2012 spring semester. That’s why it is now possible for you to be reading the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine Annual Report. It certainly can be said that this is truly a “change in name only.” Everything else is staying the same. But that doesn’t mean the change is insignificant. First impressions are very important, as are proper introductions. The term “School” had begun to hamper our effectiveness in helping people understand the breadth and stature of Purdue Veterinary Medicine. The name “College” more accurately reflects the size and scope of our programs. In addition to the doctorate of veterinary medicine program, we offer the baccalaureate degree and the associate degree in veterinary technology, as well as the Master of Science and Ph.D. degrees in a number of biomedical disciplines. Our faculty represents 20 different boarded specialties. We have residency programs that train future specialists for careers in private practice and academia. We are home to scholars who are at the forefront of scientific discovery in their disciplines. This name change brings us more in line with the other major units on campus and reduces confusion by some who mistakenly believed that we were part of another Purdue college. Additionally, the term “college” is used by all but five of the 28 U.S. veterinary institutions. Being referred to as the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine will help ensure an accurate understanding of our mission. Even though we have a new name, we will keep our same logo and short form name, Purdue Veterinary Medicine. And we will continue to emphasize those attributes that are our hallmarks, including our steadfast commitment to excellence and diversity; our leadership in scientific discovery focused on our key areas of strength, including cancer, infectious diseases, biomedical engineering and neuroscience; and our effectiveness in graduating practice ready veterinary professionals who are highly trained in a setting that maximizes development of real-world, hands-on preparedness. There is one other attribute that will continue to define us, even as we adopt our new name of “College.” That attribute is the focus of this annual report: our sense of “family.” Nowhere is the idea of a veterinary “family” more real than at Purdue University. As you thumb through this issue, whether in print, or on a computer monitor or a smart phone, take time to read the stories that showcase this wonderful family characteristic that will continue to be at the heart of what makes the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine such a special place.
Willie M. Reed, DVM, Ph.D.
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— 2011 PVM Report —