Hello IVMA Members,
I‘m thrilled to share some updates from the last few months, where I’ve had the privilege of working on the Selection Committee for the new Dean of the Purdue College of Veterinary Medicine. We’ve seen some outstanding candidates, and I’m very optimistic about what the future holds for both the College and the state of Indiana.
The selection committee has worked hard to get practical, real-world perspectives during this process, and I am honored to have our IVMA leadership involved. I’m happy to report that our Board of Governors, including our AVMA delegates, will have a 45-minute group interview with each Dean Candidate in addition to observing a 1-hour seminar that each candidate presents to all faculty and students.
Our Board of Governors is a diverse group, including four practicing veterinarians (two from corporate and two from private practices, both rural and suburban) and one retired industry veterinarian. Their wealth of experience is key to evaluating each candidate, especially with the unique challenges and opportunities we face in Indiana. The selection committee will receive feedback from many individuals and stakeholders before making further recommendations, but the ultimate decision rests with the Provost. A timeline has not yet been given for the Provost’s final decision.
A major focus in our discussions with candidates is how they plan to keep our graduates working in Indiana. We’re evaluating their awareness of the issues our profession faces both locally and nationally, and their willingness to work with key organizations throughout the state. It’s crucial that our new dean not only brings fresh ideas but also truly understands and respects the core mission of Purdue as a land-grant university.
Selecting a new dean is a complex process, and we’re zeroing in on these important areas:
- Workforce Development: Emphasizing the importance of initiatives that encourage veterinary graduates (veterinarians and veterinary nurses) to stay and practice in Indiana, improving workforce retention and support.
- Extension and Outreach: As part of the land grant mission of the University, IVMA hopes to see increased efforts at extension and outreach from the College of Veterinary Medicine to all regions of the state. Building this network has far reaching effects, including improving the quality of veterinary medicine throughout the state and increasing visibility of underserved communities to students and faculty.
- Admissions Process: Advocating for an accessible admissions process to veterinary school that reflects the diverse needs of the veterinary profession, especially in Indiana.
- All Facets of Veterinary Medicine: Highlighting the need for a focus on the broad spectrum of veterinary medicine opportunities, ensuring that all areas are well-represented and supported.
These efforts are all about making sure the new dean’s vision aligns with the College’s mission and the broader goals of advancing veterinary medicine and serving the people of Indiana and the agricultural foundations on which it is built.
This is a key moment for veterinary medicine in Indiana, and your insights as IVMA members are more important than ever. Let’s keep pushing for an environment that’s not only innovative but also true to that mission of service.
Warmly,
Lindsey Hedges
IVMA President
Lindsey.Hedges@mvetpartners.com