Gallery: College of Veterinary Medicine graduates its first class

University of Arizona history was made Aug. 24 when the College of Veterinary Medicine hosted its inaugural Commencement ceremony. The college awarded Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees to 106 graduates.

The state's first and only public veterinary medicine program, the college launched in 2020 and offers an innovative curriculum designed for students to complete their degree in three years. Most veterinary medicine programs in the United States require students to study and train at least four years. The college also uses an active learning approach that focuses on providing students with hands-on experience with live animals as early as possible.

"On behalf of the faculty and staff, I want to share how proud we are of your accomplishments," college dean Julie Funk said to students during her speech. "An inaugural class graduation is a special milestone. It fulfills the dreams of the University of Arizona and the many communities, stakeholders and partners that have supported our college on this journey. We are deeply grateful and excited to celebrate this milestone with the entire community, and we cannot wait to see what this inaugural class of Vet Cat veterinarians achieves as you progress in your careers."

University of Arizona President Robert C. Robbins congratulated the graduating students on their accomplishments and thanked them for "paving the way for the University of Arizona to become a leader in veterinary medicine."

"No matter what you go on to do with your lives, I want everyone in this class to remember you know how to keep pressing forward to make the world a better place," Robbins said. "I know you will go on to do amazing things."

As of Commencement, roughly 50% of College of Veterinary Medicine graduates have secured internships or jobs with corporations or private practices.

Photos by Chris Richards/University Communications