Leadership Announcement: Associate Dean for Professional Programs

Associate Dean for Professional Programs and Ruth Stanton Chair in Veterinary Medicine Emma Read, DVM, MVSc, DACVS, is departing the College of Veterinary Medicine to become the next CEO of the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC). She will assume the role on February 1, 2026. The AAVMC announced the news on Tuesday, October 28.

Over the past seven years, Read has made an indelible mark on Ohio State's College of Veterinary Medicine. Her leadership was instrumental during the COVID-19 pandemic, guiding the swift transition to virtual learning while maintaining the high standards that define an Ohio State veterinary education.

Read also led the development and implementation of the college's innovative, first-of-its-kind competency-based veterinary curriculum. Her efforts emphasized early and frequent exposure to clinical, professional, and communication skills; competency-based assessments; and a spectrum of care approach to patient management. These efforts have strengthened the college's ability to graduate confident, day-one-ready veterinarians who are prepared to serve the diverse needs of the state, its people, and its animals.

Reflecting on her time at Ohio State, Read shared,

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“I am tremendously proud of all that we have accomplished together at Ohio State’s College of Veterinary Medicine over the last several years. Our faculty and staff have built a forward-thinking curriculum where students not only thrive but emerge as confident, capable new veterinarians ready to meet the profession’s evolving needs.

With this strong foundation, the college is well positioned for the next phase of growth. Protect OHIO can now fully leverage the strengths of this program — from the spectrum of care model to our hands-on skills training — to deliver even greater impact across the state and beyond.

I am confident that our outstanding faculty and staff, supported by a dedicated Professional Programs team, will continue to drive excellence as the DVM program expands and our college’s influence grows. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to have been a Buckeye and will never forget what an amazing place this is.

As I take on the role of CEO at AAVMC, I am energized by the opportunity to work alongside college leaders from around the world to recognize, celebrate, and advance excellence in veterinary education. While challenges will be inevitable and old problems will demand fresh thinking, I am confident in the creativity and resilience of our community. At the heart of it all is an enduring truth: veterinary educators have much to be proud of. Together, we will continue to lead courageously — shaping the future of health professions education and empowering the next generation of veterinarians to make impact.”

The college is  developing a transition plan to reassign Read’s responsibilities during the search for the next Associate Dean for Professional Programs.

Read’s vision and leadership will be sorely missed. The college is are grateful for her dedication to the college and her unwavering commitment to student success.