Brett Matthew Cooper Memorial Scholarship

Brett Matthew Cooper’s lifelong dream was to become a veterinarian; tragically, he was not able to complete his goal. Brett passed away on September 13, 2017, just a few months short of his 2018 graduation from Penn Vet. In his memory, his family and friends hope to help others finish what Brett started with the creation of an endowed scholarship in his name. The scholarship will be awarded annually to a student who is pursuing a career in the care and service of animals, with a special emphasis on those who can demonstrate that they have overcome adversity in pursuit of their education. Diagnosed with Tourette syndrome at a young age, Brett never allowed his disabilities to interfere with his dreams or limit his perception of his own capabilities.

The original goal to raise $100,000 for the scholarship was surpassed, which speaks to the warmth that Brett brought to every life he touched. The goal has since been increased so the scholarship fund can have an even greater impact. To donate, please visit givingpages.upenn.edu/rememberingBrett.

Penn Vet volunteers offer One Health Clinic in Delaware

Since last October, Penn Vet students from the Shelter Medicine Club and the One Health Club have joined forces to volunteer at the monthly Delaware Humane Association (DHA) One Health Clinic. The clinic was established and organized by Dr. Kristin Jankowski, V’94, who invited Penn Vet students to take part.

The clinic is intended to take DHA’s “Friends for Life” motto to the next level—providing care for underserved pets in Delaware, with an emphasis on One Health that also extends to people. In addition to offering veterinary care, the clinic aims to create ways for human caregivers to seek more frequent healthcare for themselves. It also provides unique educational opportunities for student volunteers. The project’s success would help DHA’s rescued animals while also creating a framework for future One Health initiatives in Delaware and beyond.

Project collaborators include Michael Sahagian V’19, Gillian Anderson, V’20, Taylor Bryant, V’20, John Cain, V’20, James Ferrara, V’20, Lisa Hagan, V’20, Souci Louis, V’20, Katherine Murphy, V’20, Tabitha Stilo, V’20, Melanie Tramontina, V’20, Jane Mesna, V’21, Marina Relman, V’21, and Kimi Sharma, V’21.