Media Advisory: U of A College of Veterinary Medicine to celebrate second Commencement

Aug. 15, 2024

Media Advisory: U of A College of Veterinary Medicine to celebrate second Commencement

What: University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine Commencement
When: Thursday, Aug. 22. The ceremony will begin at 5 p.m. Doors open at 4 p.m.
Where: Centennial Hall, 1020 E. University Blvd.
Media Availability: College dean Julie Funk and 2024 graduate Brittney Skopek will be available before the ceremony for interviews.
RSVP: RSVP to Mindy Burnett, mindyburnett@arizona.edu.

TUCSON, Ariz. – Members of the media are invited to attend the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine Commencement ceremony, where Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees will be awarded to 108 students in the college's second graduating class.

The state's first and only public veterinary medicine program, the college opened its doors in 2020 and graduated its inaugural class last summer. The college's curriculum is designed for students to complete their studies in three years, whereas most veterinary medicine programs in the United States last four years.

The college uses an active learning approach that focuses on providing students with hands-on experience with live animals as early as possible, and partners with veterinary clinics across the country to provide third-year students the opportunity to hone their skills in real-world situations.

"Our graduates have dedicated themselves to their profession, and this group of students is extremely talented," said Julie Funk, college dean. "They have spent the last year honing their skills in real-world veterinary practices across the nation, and faculty and staff of the college are so proud of their achievements."

Joining Funk onstage at this year's ceremony are Alex Ramirez, the college's associate dean for academic programs and faculty affairs; Alberta Arviso, senior engagement officer; Sallianne Schlacks, assistant professor of practice and faculty speaker; and Brittney Skopek, a Class of 2024 graduate and the ceremony's student speaker.

The two-hour ceremony will begin at 5 p.m. at Centennial Hall and will be livestreamed.

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Media contacts:
Mindy Burnett
College of Veterinary Medicine
mindyburnett@arizona.edu

Logan Burtch-Buus
University Communications
520-609-1383
lburtchbuus@arizona.edu