Fostering Diversity and Excellence in Veterinary Education

The Zoetis Foundation is committed to helping increase access to a quality veterinary education and is proud to provide grant support for one of the largest annual veterinary student scholarships in the animal health industry – the Zoetis Foundation/AAVMC Veterinary Student Scholarship. Through its collaboration with American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC), the Zoetis Foundation’s grant supports veterinary students in their career journeys, helping to offset the costs associated with a veterinary education to inspire and grow the next generation of animal health professionals.

Between 2015 and 2020, Zoetis Inc. disbursed $3.4 million in funding to AAVMC for the Veterinary Student Scholarship, impacting more than 1,900 students pursuing careers in veterinary medicine. From 2021 to 2023, the Zoetis Foundation disbursed $4.4 million in funding to AAVMC for the scholarship program, impacting more than 800 students. Through this scholarship initiative, the Zoetis Foundation is supporting a more inclusive veterinary community and broader access to veterinary training. 

As we celebrate this year’s scholarship recipients, announced at the Student American Veterinary Medical Association (SAVMA) Symposium, the Zoetis Foundation sat down with previous scholarship winners who shared more about their career journeys and what has inspired them along the way. 

"Considering my lack of experience and the fact that I did not know a single Black person in veterinary medicine, I questioned whether I should bother following the interest,” says Marissa Vincent, a 2023 scholarship recipient and third year veterinary student pursuing mixed animal general practice at Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine. “This perspective allows me to appreciate how impactful it is to see people that look like you in veterinary medicine. As community service is one of my passions, I enjoy being able to highlight diversity in veterinary medicine with my leadership positions.” 

Post-graduation, Marissa hopes to go into mixed animal private practice where she can serve as a valuable resource for her community and work with different animal species. 

“Being an exceptional veterinarian requires more than just academic knowledge; it demands adept communication, empathy, and a thorough understanding of one's own identities and biases before engaging with the public,” says Kyle L. Granger, Jr. a 2018 and 2019 scholarship recipient and veterinarian and Emergency Critical Care Resident at Colorado State University. “By cultivating these qualities, exceptional veterinarians not only enhance the quality of veterinary care, but also build enduring relationships with clients and their beloved pets.” 

The Foundation also spoke with a veterinary school administrator about the importance of scholarship programs in the profession. Dr. Ruby Perry, Dean of College of Veterinary Medicine, Tuskegee University has dedicated her career to guiding students through their journeys in veterinary medicine. 

“Each day, I find joy in developing leaders including students, and helping others to realize their potential in personal and professional growth,” says Dr. Perry. “I am motivated and inspired by students the most because they keep me current and share their perspective on life’s challenges.” 

“Each day, I find joy in developing leaders including students, and helping others to realize their potential in personal and professional growth,” says Dr. Perry. “I am motivated and inspired by students the most because they keep me current and share their perspective on life’s challenges.” 

Veterinarians’ role in caring for animals is essential for our collective health and well-being. It’s vital that we cultivate a diverse, global community of veterinary leaders equipped with the necessary knowledge, tools, and experiences to address the pressing global health needs of people, animals and the planet. Through impactful work with grantees like AAVMC, the Zoetis Foundation supports a thriving veterinary profession to advance a healthier future for all. 

“Kindness and being generous can change the world. One small act of compassion can make a significant impact on someone's life, including your own,” adds Dr. Perry. 

Learn more about the Zoetis Foundation/AAVMC Veterinary Student Scholarship here.