Stories Shaping the
Future of Veterinary Medicine
Be The Model® magazine is published twice a year for friends of the college.
Current Issue
Fall 2026
A MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN
Dear Friends of the College,
Welcome to the latest issue of Be The Model® magazine. This edition focuses on a theme that is deeply woven into the fabric of our college and profession: leadership.
Throughout my career, I have come to appreciate that leadership often begins where we least expect it. Rarely is it a destination we set out to reach. More often, it develops through mentorship, service, curiosity and a willingness to embrace opportunities to make a difference.
As I reflected on this issue’s cover story, I found myself thinking about my own experience as a member of Ohio State’s Class of 1989. Like my classmates, Dr. Daniel Grooms and Dr. Bonnie Rush, I entered veterinary school with a passion for animal health and little idea where that journey would ultimately lead. What Ohio State provided was more than an outstanding education. It provided mentors who challenged us, inspired us and expanded our vision of what was possible.
Today, I am proud to see that same commitment to leadership development reflected throughout our college.
In these pages, you will read about our innovative Doctor of Veterinary Medicine curriculum, which prepares graduates to think critically, communicate effectively, and lead competently and confidently from day one.
You will learn more about Protect OHIO and the collaborative efforts underway to strengthen Ohio's veterinary workforce, safeguard public health and support our state’s agricultural communities. You will also discover how our faculty, students, alumni and researchers are leading advancements in One Health, public health, clinical care and scientific discovery.
While these stories span many different areas of veterinary medicine, they share a common thread: leadership in service to others.
At Ohio State’s College of Veterinary Medicine, we believe leadership is not defined by a title. It is demonstrated through a commitment to advancing knowledge, solving complex challenges and creating meaningful impact for animals, people and the planet. Whether our graduates pursue careers in clinical practice, research, public health, academia or industry, we strive to prepare them to lead with integrity, compassion and purpose.
The stories highlighted in this issue reflect our commitment to developing veterinarians who will shape the future of the profession while advancing
our ambition to Be The Model® comprehensive college of veterinary medicine in the world.
Thank you for your continued support of our college, which allows us to prepare future leaders in veterinary medicine and turn purpose into action.
Warm regards,
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Rustin M. Moore, ’89, PhD ’94, DACVS
Rita Jean Wolfe Endowed Dean
The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine