Purdue Veterinary Medicine: A Month of Milestones

This month at Purdue University's College of Veterinary Medicine (PVM) has been a whirlwind of activity, marked by both joyous celebrations and poignant farewells. From recognizing exceptional staff members to welcoming new faces and honoring a beloved alumna, the PVM community has experienced a range of emotions. Let's delve into the significant events that have shaped this eventful period.

Celebrating Excellence: Paws Up for Brittany Laflen

One of the highlights of this month was the well-deserved recognition of Brittany Laflen, RVT, VTS (Neurology), a veterinary technician in Neurology / Small Animal Surgery. For over a decade, Brittany has been an invaluable asset to the neurology service. A faculty clinician eloquently described her as “a solid force,” highlighting her pivotal role in organizing the daily operations and ensuring the service's continuity amidst staffing challenges. The past two years have presented considerable difficulties with frequent locums, yet Brittany’s dedication has shone through. Her contribution extends to mentoring; she has played a key role in training new neuro tech, Aaron Rodriguez. Her exceptional commitment was further underscored by her tireless work during a recent holiday weekend where she anesthetized multiple cases. These exemplary actions showcase an unwavering dedication to her profession and the well-being of patients.

This recognition emphasizes the importance of acknowledging and appreciating the contributions of dedicated individuals within the veterinary profession. It serves as a reminder of the often unseen hard work and sacrifices made to ensure the success of the institution. The PVM Wellness Committee's Paws Up initiative provides a fantastic platform for highlighting these invaluable contributions.

The Importance of Recognizing Dedicated Staff

Fostering a positive and supportive work environment is crucial for any organization. Expressing appreciation and gratitude is not merely a gesture of goodwill; it is an investment in the well-being and motivation of the team. This is why the PVM Wellness Committee encourages everyone to submit a Paws Up nomination. It's a simple yet powerful way to recognize individuals who consistently go above and beyond. nominations are handled anonymously, and the submissions may be edited before publication.

New Beginnings: Welcoming Fresh Talent

The college has also seen an influx of new talent. The Purdue Veterinary Medicine communications team enthusiastically welcomed Caroline Keim, a senior studying media and mass communications, and professional writing, as their newest intern. Caroline, hailing from the Brian Lamb School of Communications in the College of Liberal Arts, brings fresh energy and expertise to the team. Her arrival underscores the college's ongoing commitment to nurturing future leaders in the field of communications and veterinary medicine.

Another significant addition to the PVM family is Julia Wickard, appointed as the college’s new constituent liaison and executive director of the Purdue Veterinary Alumni Association. Julia's extensive background in Indiana agriculture, most recently as the state executive director of the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), brings a wealth of experience and connections to this role. This homecoming for the Purdue alumna, who earned her BA in agricultural communications and political science, promises a new era of engagement and collaboration with the college's alumni network. Her appointment signifies the commitment to strengthening relationships with past graduates and supporting future endeavors.

Furthermore, the Department of Comparative Pathobiology welcomed Dr. Rachel Soltys as clinical assistant professor of diagnostic microbiology and section head of Bacteriology in the Willie M. Reed Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (ADDL). Dr. Soltys's expertise is invaluable, and her arrival strengthens the department's capacity for research and education in the field of microbiology.

A Sad Farewell: Remembering Dr. Carole Bolin

The PVM community is deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Carole Bolin, a dedicated alumna, after a courageous battle with metastatic breast cancer. Dr. Bolin's legacy of dedication and service will be remembered and cherished by those whose lives she touched. Her commitment to the veterinary profession serves as an inspiration to current and future generations of veterinarians.

Her contributions and commitment to the field are worthy of emulation, and this occasion serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of cherishing the contributions of those who dedicate their lives to advancing the profession. The memory of Dr. Bolin’s contributions will continue to inspire those within the Purdue Veterinary Medicine community. The void left by her passing will be deeply felt, but her legacy will live on.

New Horizons: Dr. Kyle Shipman Appointed Indiana State Veterinarian

In exciting news for the state of Indiana, Dr. Kyle Shipman (PU DVM 2015) has been appointed as the new Indiana State Veterinarian. This decision, made by the Indiana State Board of Animal Health and approved by the governor, reflects the high regard in which Dr. Shipman is held within the veterinary community. His appointment promises a period of leadership and progress for animal health in Indiana. This accomplishment highlights the achievements of Purdue's graduates and their significant contributions to the broader veterinary landscape.

Dr. Shipman's appointment is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and skill. His background and experience position him well to address the evolving challenges facing animal health. His appointment not only benefits Indiana but also showcases the success of Purdue University's College of Veterinary Medicine in producing skilled and impactful veterinarians.

A Legacy of Excellence: Embracing the Future

The events of this month, from celebrations of excellence to welcoming new talents and bidding farewell to a beloved member of our community, have reinforced the vibrancy and profound impact of Purdue Veterinary Medicine. We celebrate those honored, welcome the newest members to our growing family, and offer condolences to those mourning a loss. The future of PVM remains promising, thanks to the dedication and commitment of every individual involved. The legacy continues to grow. The commitment to excellence perseveres. The future is bright.