Study Led by Veterinary Oncologist Finds Cigarette Smoke Exposure Increases Cancer Risk in Dogs

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Dogs are humans’ best friends. Need to quickly locate a bomb? There’s a dog for that. Can’t see very well? There’s a dog for that. Searching for a lost hiker in the mountains or survivors in an earthquake, diagnosing illness, comforting the bereft — there are dogs for every need.

They are even helping humans track down the causes of cancer. A recent study links cigarette smoke exposure to an exponentially higher rate of bladder cancer in Scottish terriers. By assessing individual dogs and studying their medical history, scientists are beginning to untangle the question of who gets cancer and why, and how best to detect, treat, and prevent cancer.

Led by Purdue veterinarian Deborah Knapp, a team of researchers followed a cohort of 120 Scottish terriers over a three-year period. In a paper published in The Veterinary Journal, they found that dogs exposed to cigarette smoke were six times more likely to develop bladder cancer than those that were not. Dr. Knapp is the Purdue Distinguished Professor of Comparative Oncology, the Dolores L. McCall Professor of Veterinary Medicine, director of Purdue’s Evan and Sue Ann Werling Comparative Oncology Research Center, and a program co-leader in the Purdue Institute for Cancer Research.

“Cancer is a combination of what you are born with — your genetics — and what you are exposed to — your environment,” Dr. Knapp said. “In this case, we studied these dogs for years at a time, and then we went back and asked, ‘What was different between those that developed cancer and those that did not develop cancer? What were the risk factors?’”

Scottish terriers, famous for being presidential pets to presidents George W. Bush and Franklin D. Roosevelt, “Jock” in Disney’s “Lady and the Tramp,” and the cutest Monopoly game token, are also notable for a less cheerful reason: they develop bladder cancer at a rate 20 times higher than that of other dog breeds. And when Scotties and other dogs develop bladder cancer, it is often an aggressive form similar to muscle invasive bladder cancer in humans.

Dr. Knapp’s team studied 120 Scotties, assessing their health, environment, food, activity, locations, and anything they could think of that might affect their cancer risk. The goal was both to figure out what could prevent a heartbreaking and often fatal cancer in this breed, but also to use that information to see what might affect cancer in other dogs and even humans. Dogs make an excellent study species because they live alongside humans, sharing food, bedding, housing, atmosphere, and almost everything else.

“We know that Scotties’ genetics play a huge role in making them vulnerable to cancer,” Dr. Knapp said. That strong genetic signal tied to cancer helps researchers isolate other factors that affect the likelihood of any dog, or human, getting cancer, and to do so with smaller numbers of dogs. “If we were to do this study with mixed breeds of dogs, it would take hundreds and hundreds of dogs to uncover this same risk, which is probably there, just more difficult to discern because those dogs are not already inclined genetically to get bladder cancer.”

The researchers, with the help of Purdue alumna, veterinarian, and Scottish terrier breed champion Marcia Dawson, wanted to study cancer in Scotties to help the dogs themselves and for what that research might reveal about canine and human risk factors overall.

When a dog (or human) is exposed to tobacco smoke, either by breathing it or by licking clothes saturated with the scent, their body takes up the chemicals in the smoke and eliminates them through the urine. This leads to cancer in the urinary tract, but also offers a way to assess smoke exposure. The researchers analyzed the dogs’ urine for a nicotine metabolite, cotinine, and its presence indicated the dog had been exposed to significant amounts of tobacco smoke.

Any time tobacco smoke is present in the same room as a dog, the dog breathes in the smoke. However, some dogs also had cotinine in their urine when their owners did not smoke. In that case, the dog could have been exposed away from the home. Or it may be that their owners visited places where others were smoking and returned home with smoke on their clothes.

“If someone goes out to a smoky concert or party, then comes home and their dog hops up on their lap to snuggle with them, the dog can be exposed to the particulate material in smoke through the person’s clothing,” Dr. Knapp said.

The results are not all black and white. Not all the dogs who were around smokers got cancer, and some dogs who were not around the smoke still got cancer. This is also true in humans. Half of human bladder cancer is due to smoking, but not all smokers develop bladder cancer. This discovery gives the Purdue team the opportunity to study how the combined effects of the genetics inherited from the parents plus environmental exposures lead to cancer.

Dr. Knapp stresses that this discovery is a new one. Dog owners, who almost universally want the best for their dog and wish their dog would live to be 100, certainly did not knowingly put their dogs at risk of cancer by smoking around them. However, with this new information, they may be able to better protect their pets going forward.

In another interesting finding, the researchers did not uncover a link between lawn chemicals and bladder cancer, which had been found in previous studies. “That’s likely because we are working with pet owners who are aware of the risk of lawn chemicals, so they took precautions to keep the dogs safe, like not treating parts of the lawn where the dog tends to be or keeping the dogs off the lawn for longer,” Dr. Knapp said. “That is encouraging! People love their pets. There are people taking steps to keep their dogs healthier.”

That new and encouraging result means there are further things humans can do to protect dogs. They can reduce the amount of smoke around the dog by quitting smoking or by smoking outside away from the dog and changing clothes before they come back inside from a smoky environment and snuggling their dog.

“What we hope pet owners will take from this is that if they can reduce the exposure of their dogs to smoke, that can help the dogs’ health,” Dr. Knapp said. “We hope they stop smoking altogether, both for their health and so they will continue to be around for their dogs, but any steps to keep smoke from the dogs will help.”

The study was funded by the National Institutes of Health’s National Cancer Institute, the Scottish Terrier Club of America, and gifts made to Purdue University for canine bladder cancer research.

Click here for more information about screening Scottish terriers.

Writer(s): Brittany Steff, Purdue Marketing and Communications | pvmnews@purdue.edu

Building Naming Recognizes Dr. Willie Reed’s Pioneering Deanship

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As Dr. Willie Reed prepared to step down June 30 after serving 17-and-a-half years as dean of the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, among 25 total years of service to Purdue, he received many congratulations from well-wishers, and a very special kind of recognition from the Purdue University Board of Trustees. To honor Dr. Reed’s loyalty and service to Purdue, the veterinary medicine profession and the state of Indiana, the trustees approved renaming the Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory building as the Willie M. Reed Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory at their meeting June 7.

As a result of the trustees’ decision, Dr. Reed became the first dean in Purdue history to have a building named in his honor. The naming also is particularly appropriate because the ADDL is where Dr. Reed did all his graduate work for his PhD degree, and where he served as a PVM faculty member for the first eight years of his Purdue career. Dr. Reed also received the designation of Dean Emeritus.

Additionally, the trustees approved the appointment of Purdue 150th Anniversary Professor and Associate Dean for Academic Affairs S. Kathleen Salisbury, as the college’s interim dean, effective July 1. “Associate Dean Salisbury has exactly the right mix of expertise and experience to accelerate the college’s progress in this interim role as we launch our One Health initiative,” said Patrick Wolfe, Purdue provost and executive vice president for academic affairs and diversity.

“I look forward to leading our outstanding faculty, staff and students through this transition,” Dr. Salisbury said. “I will follow Dean Reed’s example of excellence and dedication in serving the college.”
Dean Reed was praised for consistently championing One Health at Purdue — bringing together animal health, human health and environmental health. The university is continuing to strengthen and accelerate his groundbreaking approach to excellence and education in these areas.

Dr. Reed also was recognized for guiding the College of Veterinary Medicine in developing and executing a series of three visionary strategic plans to enhance the future through innovative educational initiatives, groundbreaking research, and creative and effective engagement programs. His strategic planning initiatives culminated in the opening of the David and Bonnie Brunner Purdue Veterinary Medical Hospital Complex in 2022 — expanding the college’s Small Animal Hospital and creating new Equine and Farm Animal hospitals to replace the Large Animal Hospital.

The new David and Bonnie Brunner Equine Hospital actually is the second equine hospital established under Dean Reed’s leadership. The first is the Caesar’s Entertainment Equine Specialty Hospital, which opened as a satellite facility in 2017 in Shelbyville, Indiana. Offering outstanding equine health expertise, state-of-the-art equipment, and a location in proximity to Indiana’s two racetracks, the specialty hospital is particularly suited to treat cases involving performance horses.

Dean Reed’s leadership of the college also led to the improvement of Purdue DVM and veterinary nursing education through implementation of new approaches to clinical-skills training and the use of innovative technology. In addition, he fostered growth in research programs, achieving record-level research funding through expanded external support for scientific discovery that advances medicine for both animals and humans. He also spearheaded efforts that enhanced the teaching, clinical and research facilities in Lynn Hall; increased the DVM class size by 20%; fostered successful recruitment of faculty members from around the globe in many disciplines; and significantly expanded the college’s global engagement programs.

In 2023, Dean Reed’s many achievements were recognized when he was selected by the American Veterinary Medical Association as its inaugural recipient of the AVMA Frederick Douglass Patterson Lifetime Achievement Award, honoring his innovative leadership and contributions in supporting and promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in the veterinary profession.
Purdue’s Frederick L. Hovde Dean of the College of Science and professor of earth, atmospheric, and planetary sciences, Lucy Flesch, is chairing an advisory committee to assist in the search for Dr. Reed’s permanent successor. Finalists are expected to visit campus at the start of the fall semester.

Featured on “This is Purdue” Podcast

Dean Reed’s own story about making dreams come true was featured in June on the official podcast for Purdue University, “This is Purdue,” with host Kate Young. The podcast conveys Dean Reed’s incredible story of persistence — from being taught first grade by his grandmother in southern Alabama to becoming dean of one of the top veterinary colleges in the country.

Kate, herself a Purdue University alumna and graduate of the Brian Lamb School of Communication, talked with Dean Reed about what led him to pursue a career as a veterinarian and how his efforts have helped meet the increasing demand for veterinary professionals by expanding and adapting the College of Veterinary Medicine’s world-class facilities. He also shared about his love for animals and discussed Purdue research on the human-animal bond and how animals have a positive effect on human mental and physical health. “Whether it’s a dog or a cat or some other animal, they bring us so much joy…Our whole well-being is increased,” Dean Reed said.

Other topics addressed in the podcast include current pathology research at Purdue and Dean Reed’s plans for future endeavors, including mentoring students in underrepresented communities to teach them the path to becoming a veterinarian. “I had a dream and I tell my students, ‘You have to believe in the beauty of your dream. Don’t let anybody deter you from that. You have to be persistent.’”

Dr. Reed earned his Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees at Tuskegee University before coming to Purdue University to pursue a graduate degree in veterinary pathology. After earning his PhD in 1982, he joined the Purdue Veterinary Medicine faculty, serving as associate professor of avian pathology and as chief of Avian Disease Diagnostic Services in the Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. In 1990, he accepted an offer at Michigan State University to become a full professor and director of the Animal Health Diagnostic Laboratory (now called the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory). He remained at Michigan State until his appointment as dean.

There’s something about the Purdue spirit that is unique,” Dean Reed says. “When you come here, this is a place where dreams can come true.”

Click here to listen to “This is Purdue” Podcast Ep. 110, “Dean, Mentor, Boilermaker: Celebrating Willie Reed and His Lasting Legacy on the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine.” Click here to view the full video interview. You can also listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Click here to view the podcast promotional video and check out additional videos of Dean Reed on the podcast’s YouTube page.

Honored at College of Veterinary Medicine Reception

As the month of June came to a close, College of Veterinary Medicine faculty, staff, students, alumni and Purdue dignitaries had the opportunity to congratulate Dean Reed at a reception held in his honor in the Veterinary Medical Library in Lynn Hall. Co-hosted by Dr. Kathy Salisbury, associate dean for academic affairs and the newly named interim dean of the college, and Lee Ann Happ, a long-time staff member who has served under multiple deans and currently holds the position of PVM principal operations administrator, the event on June 27 attracted a throng of well-wishers.

“It is a very bittersweet day as we send off our Dean to enjoy the next phase of his career,” Dr. Salisbury said as she began the reception program. She and Lee Ann then shared highlights of the long list of accomplishments during the dean’s 17-and-a-half years of service.

“Willie’s goal was to leave the College in better condition than it was in when he arrived,” Lee Ann said. “It is clear he has done that and so much more. Willie Reed has left a lasting legacy on this College that will not be forgotten. Thank you, Willie, for 17-and-a-half years of absolute excellence!”

Dr. Salisbury then invited reception guests who wanted to share their thoughts and stories about the dean to do so and many attendees took advantage of the opportunity, including professors emeriti, faculty, staff, alumni and Provost Emeritus and former Purdue Agriculture Dean Jay Akridge, who served in both capacities during Dr. Reed’s service as College of Veterinary Medicine dean. Dr. Akridge recalled how as provost, he recognized that Dean Reed faithfully attended every event, whether it was celebrating faculty, staff or students, “…because he cared about our students and our faculty and staff, and I think that was another important characteristic. He is just a consummate professional.”

Also on hand were Drs. Sue and Craig Wardrip, who both are members of the DVM Class of 1978. “And I want to say that Willie and Dorothy have provided the face of veterinary medicine for this college very effectively for a very long time and we’re proud to have had him here as our leader.”

The reception also featured the unveiling of an oil on linen painted portrait of Willie, to be installed in the library later in the summer. The portrait was painted by artist Patrick Earl Hammie, Professor of Studio Art at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. PVM Professor Emeritus David Williams had seen some of Patrick’s paintings exhibited on the Purdue campus some years ago and admired his work, so he reached out to Patrick to see if he would consider painting the portrait of Willie. Patrick replied that he would be honored to do so.

Patrick attended the reception with his wife, Jess, and together with Dean Reed, lifted the veil from the portrait. “This has been such a joy and a pleasure and an honor to hear some of the stories that you all shared and the tears and the feelings that have come out,” Patrick shared. He then asked, “How do you capture an essence in an image? How do you wrap some of these stories, these histories…in a moment that we can celebrate and continue to live with long after?” Patrick went on to explain, “Those are some of the questions I had, that it’s so good to hear echoed and reaffirmed today, because when I met Dean Reed for the first time, now two years ago, and we had a great sit down with him and Dorothy and David Williams, that warmth came through. Without knowing all of this history, I could feel it in his presence, in his thoughtfulness, in his earnestness as he shared some of his stories with me.” Patrick concluded by saying, “I kept that with me as I moved beyond our time together into painting this portrait that I hope will continue to carry some of those stories forward for you all and the community to come.”

Dean Reed also was presented with a commemorative recognition gift featuring the image of the Continuum Sculpture engraved on glass, before he was given the opportunity to make closing remarks. “I don’t know where to start. What a wonderful day,” Dean Reed said. “I will always carry this memory, always. Thank all of you for coming today. It means so much to me that you would be here, and I thank all of you who made wonderful comments. I’m a little embarrassed standing here now after listening to all that, but you’ve given me something that I will hold forever. So thank you so very much.”

Congratulations, Dr. Willie Reed!

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

Demystifying the Aging Process – Study Sheds New Light on Age-related Diseases

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Identification of nuclear protein’s critical role in cell degradation could lead to prevention or even reversal of age-related diseases

Tantalizing legends of a fountain of youth spurred explorers to navigate the globe for millennia in search of the restorative waters that promised to wind back the hands of time and halt the process of aging. Recent research conducted in the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine and the Bindley Bioscience Center reveals the real secret lies not in myth, but in science.

As we age, our cells undergo senescence, a process where they cease dividing and enter a state of permanent growth arrest without dying off. Senescence is actually a good thing, because if cells continue to divide uncontrollably, they become tumorigenic or cancer-initiating cells. It’s when too many senescent cells build up that they cause problems.

Our immune system can eliminate damaged cells through apoptosis, but that process becomes less effective as we age. So instead of being naturally discarded, these damaged senescent cells hang around and release chemicals that can trigger inflammation. The older we get, the more our senescent cells accumulate and compromise healthy cells.

“It’s like a basket of fresh apples that becomes tarnished by one bad apple,” says Uma K. Aryal, PhD, research associate professor in the Department of Comparative Pathobiology and director of the Purdue Proteomics Facility in the Bindley Bioscience Center. “Once the bad apple starts rotting, it affects all the neighboring good apples.”

Cellular senescence has been linked to age-related diseases including cancer and neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Unmasking the mechanism that underpins cellular senescence could lead to earlier detection of such diseases or perhaps, one day, prevention.

In a study published in the February 2024 journal Molecular & Cellular Proteomics, Aryal and his research team identified a specific protein, known as Pin1 — a peptidyl-prolyl cis/trans isomerase — that appears to play a key role in regulating the senescence process. Aryal served as principal investigator for the study. Rodrigo Mohallem, a graduate research assistant and PhD candidate in Aryal’s lab, conducted the experiments. Funding for the project was provided partially by the Indiana Clinical and Translational Science Institute, the Showalter Trust Fund and the Purdue University COVID Disruption Fund. Funding for open access publication of this research was provided by the Purdue University Libraries.

There are many triggers for oncogene-induced senescence. An oncogene is a mutated gene that has the potential to transform into a tumor cell under certain circumstances. In this study, Aryal and Mohallem used a model that activated RAS proteins to induce senescence in human fibroblast cells. By controlling when senescence was triggered to the cell, they could collect comparative data through longitudinal studies throughout the senescence process.

Using the proteomic and phosphoproteomic technologies available in the Bindley Bioscience Center, they identified the proteins and phosphoproteins that change as cells undergo senescence. These proteins are like molecular fingerprints for different physiological stressors, including disease. The mass spectrometers housed in the Purdue Proteomics Facility can monitor thousands of proteins and hundreds of thousands of peptides in a single experiment. This enabled the research team to zero in on Pin1.

“Identifying Pin1’s role in oncogene-induced senescence is critical to understanding the mechanisms that drive cells into senescence,” says Mohallem. “Understanding senescence helps us to understand the aging process and why our bodies become more fragile as we become older. This can lead to more advanced therapeutic strategies to help older people live healthier, more active lives.”

By analyzing the relationship between Pin1 and promyelocytic leukemia, or PML protein, the researchers gained valuable insight into the senescence process. PML proteins act as tumor suppressors, preventing cells from growing and dividing too rapidly or in an uncontrolled manner. The PML protein is the main component of PML nuclear bodies (PML-NBs) and serves as a molecular glue to build up these nuclear bodies.

“Dr. Aryal’s study shows that the protein Pin1 helps form and maintain PML nuclear bodies, which are structures in the cell nucleus involved in processes that can malfunction in aging and cancer,” says Thomas Sors, PhD, director of scientific strategy and relations for the Purdue Institute of Inflammation, Immunology and Infectious Disease. “His work is significant because it can potentially lead to new treatments for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s.”

These PML-NBs are formed by a process called liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) and are used as sites for sequestration, inactivation and degradation of certain proteins involved in cell proliferation and tumorigenesis. However, as cells age, their ability to accumulate such proteins into PML-NBs and degrade them lessens. When proteins within PML-NBs cannot be recycled or degraded, they begin to aggregate and become misfolded. Proteins must be correctly folded into specific, 3D shapes to function correctly.

Pin1 binds to PML proteins, changing the PML protein structure and triggering its activation. When the process was disrupted, the cells became tumorigenic. Understanding how PML-NBs are formed and how proteins are recruited into PML-NBs will build greater understanding of how to create more efficient cells that recycle those proteins over and over, rather than allowing them to aggregate. That means better treatment for patients with diseases such as Alzheimer’s.

“Aging is directly linked to neurological disorders,” Aryal says. “If we can identify molecular signatures of the aging process, we may be able to figure out biological markers that indicate whether a person is more susceptible to developing Alzheimer’s disease, and we can develop medications and therapies to slow the progression. Knowledge of the connection between Pin1 and PML nuclear bodies can be used to advance the identification of those markers.”

The breakthrough was facilitated by a $3.5 million investment in proteomics equipment by the Office of Research to furnish the Purdue Proteomics Facility. The mass spectrometry instruments are available to researchers across campus.

“Proteomics is a very powerful science,” Aryal says. “In this study, we were specifically interested in two proteins, Pin1 and PML, but during our experiments, interactions with hundreds of other proteins also were impacted. The proteomics technology allows us to monitor everything occurring within the cell simultaneously.”

With the number of Americans aged 65 and older projected to increase from 58 million to 82 million by 2050, uncovering the secrets of aging and reversing the process of age-related diseases is more pertinent than ever. Scientific discovery has the potential to aid a natural biologic process and help cells function more effectively and efficiently as we age. It’s not exactly a fountain of youth, but it is a promising step toward increasing the years of independent, healthy living for older generations.

“Senescence is an evolutionary process that developed to prevent cells from becoming tumorigenic, but our bodies have not evolved to protect us naturally from disease,” Aryal says. “Cancer can still arise when cells evade senescence or when other factors, such as mutations or environmental or chemical exposure, disrupt normal cellular process. We can treat cancer and we can cure cancer, but we cannot reverse cancer — with greater understanding of senescence, perhaps in the future, we will.”

Writer(s): Kat Braz | pvmnews@purdue.edu

The first Black woman to earn a DVM degree at Purdue University, Dr. Doris Hughes-Moore, attributes her success to the sacrifices made by her ancestors

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Dr. Doris Hughes-Moore (PU DVM ’73) recognizes the importance of preserving and honoring history. She’s president of the board for the Wilson Bruce Evans Home Historical Society, an organization with a mission to preserve the home and promote its historical significance as part of Black American history and culture in Oberlin, Ohio. She’s also the great-great granddaughter of Wilson Bruce Evans and his wife, Sarah Jane Evans.

The Evanses were Black abolitionists and Oberlin was known for its support of fugitives fleeing slavery on the Underground Railroad. In September 1858, Wilson Bruce Evans took part in the Oberlin-Wellington Rescue, an incident that gave rise to Oberlin’s reputation as “the town that started the Civil War.” He was one of 37 rescuers indicted for violating the Fugitive Slave Law of 1850 by aiding an escaped slave to freedom, a crime for which he spent 83 days in jail but was never tried.

One month later, Lewis Sheridan Leary, brother of Sarah Jane Evans, and John Anthony Copeland, nephew of Wilson Bruce Evans, left Oberlin without informing their families to join John Brown in his raid on Harpers Ferry. Leary was killed during the raid and Copeland was executed two months later. Lewis Sheridan Leary’s remains are interred at the John Brown Farm State Historic Site near Lake Placid, N.Y.

“When my ancestors left North Carolina to seek educational opportunities in the Midwest, it was not just for their own personal success — there was no such thing,” Dr. Hughes-Moore said. “It was to promote our people. It was important for our family to be part of the cause that was lifting up the advancement of others. Lewis Sheridan Leary and John Anthony Copeland did that, and they paid the ultimate price.”

But ask Dr. Hughes-Moore about her history-making turn as the first Black woman to earn a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Purdue University, and she shies away from her status as a trailblazer. “My success was achieved through the sacrifice of many people — not only the advancement of Black people in America, but the sacrifices so many people have made, in all ways, including our family,” Dr. Hughes-Moore says. “You do what you have to do and you strive for quality of experience for your family and your career satisfaction, but you don’t gloat about it. If my story is encouraging to others, I’m pleased about that, but I am not a peacock.”

Early Life
Her father was a physician who died when Dr. Hughes-Moore was three years old. Her mother, a Howard University graduate, moved the family to Washington, D.C., where Dr. Hughes-Moore and her two siblings were raised. They also spent summers with their maternal grandmother in rural Bricks, North Carolina, where the American Missionary Association, a Christian educational association founded in 1846 through an antislavery coalition, established schools for Black children in 1895.

Just as important in later years was spending summers with her maternal great aunt Dorothy Miller in Oberlin, Ohio in the very house her ancestors built. “Aunt Da”, as she was affectionately known, was a key figure in the District of Columbia Public Schools system and played a major role in the establishment of the vocational programs for the DC Public Schools.

“My grandmother graduated from Winston-Salem Teachers College and was a teacher her whole life,” Dr. Hughes-Moore said. “Her siblings graduated from Fisk University. We had ancestors who were graduates of Oberlin College. Our family always put great importance on getting an education as a means of advancing Black people and providing access to opportunities.”

It was during her time in North Carolina that Dr. Hughes-Moore learned about animal husbandry. Her grandmother kept chickens and bartered eggs with neighbors. Local farmers raised hogs for slaughter and used mules as work animals. She always loved animals and expressed empathy for the mangy country dogs she would encounter. The coastal plains of North Carolina felt like a world away from Washington, D.C.

“I remember running down those North Carolina country roads, wishing I wasn’t such a tenderfoot,” she said. “All the local kids could run barefoot on the gravel, but I couldn’t. We also learned to make do with what was around. Local girls would craft dolls from Bermuda grass. My grandmother had fields of daffodils behind her house and I remember watching them sway like dancers in the summer breeze. It was beautiful to experience all of that.”

Road to Purdue
A junior high science teacher nurtured Dr. Hughes-Moore’s interest in scientific discovery, particularly curing diseases. At the time, she was the only Black student in her seventh-grade class, but bolstered by her teacher’s encouragement and her family’s support, she was determined to pursue a career in science.

Dr. Hughes-Moore enrolled at Howard University and then transferred to Tuskegee University where she earned her bachelor’s degree. She also attended two years of veterinary school at Tuskegee, but when her then-husband transferred to Purdue to pursue a PhD in veterinary pathology, she decided to transfer to Purdue, too. Growing up in an integrated neighborhood in Washington, D.C., prepared her for the transition to Purdue after attending two HBCUs (historically Black colleges and universities).

The College of Veterinary Medicine’s first Black graduate, Dr. William Dunn (PU DVM’71), was only two years ahead of Dr. Hughes-Moore. She saw him in passing, but she didn’t dwell on the fact that they shared the status of being the first Black Purdue DVM graduates.

“I never thought about it,” she said. “It’s part of assuming that you’re supposed to do your best, regardless of the position you are in. You have to rise to the occasion and not view it as something exceptional. The advisors and faculty accepted me and made me feel like I belonged.”

While the faculty and staff were supportive, Dr. Hughes-Moore does recall one incident where a fellow student challenged her presence in the cohort. The student used a racial slur toward Dr. Hughes-Moore and rather than become angry, she attempted to educate.

“I said to him, ‘I hope you are learning that I’m just an ordinary person who is seeking an education. I hope my being here is enough to influence you to understand that we are all equal. I am not trying to stand out as an exception. I am part of the fabric of our people, not only Black people, but of this nation.’”

A career devoted to animal welfare
Following graduation, Dr. Hughes-Moore accepted a position as a research scientist for the Upjohn Company in Kalamazoo, Michigan. She and her then-husband founded their own research and development company, Hughes Research and Development, which provided a full spectrum of veterinary pathology services for nonclinical, safety and toxicology needs. She was then recruited to Howard University where she served as director of the veterinary clinical laboratory from 1984-2002. She left to direct the animal research facility at George Washington University for four years, but she was lured back to Howard in 2006. She actually retired from Howard in 2012, but returned in 2014 as director of veterinary services, a position she still holds.

“I never had an interest in a tenured academic position,” Dr. Hughes-Moore said. “My interest was in ensuring the proper welfare and humane treatment of animals. The government has very strict regulations and requirements for conducting labs.”

Howard University has been accredited by the AAALAC, International — formerly known as the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care — since the accreditation program, organized by a group of veterinarians and researchers, started in 1965. “Howard’s Black veterinarians saw a vision for the achievement of the highest standards of animal care and research,” she said.

Throughout her career, Dr. Hughes-Moore has honored the legacy of her own family and that of other Black families who paved the way for her progress. She’s also cognizant of her own role in fostering Black excellence in the next generation.

“I do my best to serve as a model for those who are coming through these doors,” she said. “Those of us who’ve had the opportunity to achieve have a responsibility to promote other people in that regard and to help them succeed. None of us succeeds alone.”

Writer(s): Kat Braz | pvmnews@purdue.edu

Ninety Foot Long Mural Seals Willie Reed’s Art Inspired Legacy as Purdue Veterinary Medicine Dean

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Mural, mural on the wall, what’s the greatest human-animal bond depiction of them all?  Well, if you asked faculty, staff and students who helped paint a stunning new piece of art at the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, they likely would point to it, and say, “That!!”  In this case “that” is an expansive mural that graces the previously plain wall in the hallway connecting Lynn Hall with the new David and Bonnie Brunner Small Animal Hospital.  Dedicated April 26, 2024, the mural was commissioned by then Dean Willie Reed as a creative means of celebrating the human animal bond and the College of Veterinary Medicine’s strengths, traditions and hallmarks. 

The dedication ceremony was held in the hallway, which was bedecked with colorful balloons that matched the brilliant colors in the mural.  “As you take in this scene, I think you will be struck, as I am, by the way in which it seems like this space was precisely designed for this mural,” Dean Reed said.  “And that feeling is a testament to the appropriateness of the mural design, as created by the artist, based on extensive input from Purdue Veterinary Medicine faculty, staff and students.”

The artist, Tia Richardson, was present for the celebration, which represented the culmination of months of planning, preparing, and working with the college’s faculty, staff and students to draw out from them the themes and imagery that would make up the mural design.  “In actuality, the inception of this project dates back a year ago, to the annual veterinary medicine dean’s conference that was held in Jupiter, Florida,” Dean Reed explained.  “It was hosted by the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges, and that’s when I met Tia Richardson, a full-time community mural artist from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and owner of Cosmic Butterfly Design.”

At that conference Dean Reed participated in a mural painting project with other veterinary deans and heard Tia’s presentation on her work. “Needless to say I was impressed,” Dean Reed shared.  “I was impressed with her community engagement and realized the kind of positive impact her art could have on our college, on the Purdue campus and on our community.”  Dean Reed also knew that the college had the perfect setting for a mural, in the enclosed connecting hallway that had a long corridor with a blank wall on one side and on the other, large windows that would make the art visible to everyone outside, including people using the adjacent Small Animal Hospital parking lot. 

“So that realization launched a series of steps that led to today, when we can gaze on this stunning depiction of the human animal bond and the values, culture, accomplishments and wide-ranging impact of the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine,” Dean Reed said.  The mural spans 90 feet and is eight feet tall.  “The design distinctly captures key aspects of our college because Tia, as part of her creative process, conducted two days of visioning workshops with our faculty, staff and students, to gain insights into their sense of the most important and enduring elements of our college’s history, programs and people.”

Utilizing those ideas and insights, Tia created the mural design, which was submitted for university review and approval. Then, after a few tweaks, the design was ready to be traced on the wall.  PVM volunteers helped outline the design as overhead projectors cast images of the drawing onto the wall.

Dean Reed then shared how Tia empowered and equipped members of the PVM family to actually contribute directly to the painting of the mural.  “Over the course of several days, we were able to pick up paint and brushes and apply the first layer of color in a paint-by-numbers type of process,” Dean Reed said.  “Then, volunteers with more sophisticated painting talent continued to help by contributing artistic refinements.  Following that, Tia and her staff applied the finishing touches, resulting in this amazingly colorful and splendid mural. I could not be more pleased and proud of what we, as the PVM community, and Cosmic Butterfly Design, have accomplished through the creation of this beautiful mural that will stand as a lasting tribute to our college, Purdue, and the human-animal bond.”

“To Tia and everyone who has been part of this adventure, congratulations on what we have achieved!” 

Dean Reed then introduced a PVM faculty member particularly qualified to speak about the meaning of the occasion, Dr. Leanne Nieforth, assistant professor of the Human-Animal Bond in the Department of Comparative Pathobiology.  “Science from the field of human-animal interaction demonstrates that our pets influence both emotional and physical health and studies have shown that pets can have a stress-buffering role,” Dr. Nieforth explained. “They can decrease our anxiety, and depression levels, as well as increase our overall well-being, playing a significant role in supporting people both emotionally through companionship as well as physically, through increased physical activity and altered physiologic responses.”

Dr. Nieforth also highlighted a statement from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) that says the veterinarian’s role is to maximize the potential of this relationship between people and animals and to promote the well-being of both.  “This mural is a wonderful reminder, or a grounding for us, to remember why we do this work in the first place – why we’re veterinarians, veterinary nurses, researchers and individuals who deeply care about animals and their people,” Dr. Nieforth said.

“You can look at this mural and see a piece of yourself and your experiences,” Dr. Nieforth continued.  “You may not relate to every image – all 90 feet of it – but you can situate yourself in the different pieces and ground yourself in the feelings associated with every image. It might not be your experience but I’m sure you can have empathy for the person and the animal in the image.”  Dr. Nieforth concluded by saying, “This mural represents our commitment to the human-animal bond and our promise to continue to do the work of keeping both humans’ and animals’ health and welfare at the core of our values.”

Dean Reed then asked Tia to share her thoughts as she stood next to the beautiful mural she designed.  “This was truly a collaborative effort and I could not have done it without each of you who were involved at any step of the process,” Tia said.  “So first I want to thank everyone who made this community mural possible.  I couldn’t have done it alone.  And I want to thank Dean Reed and your team for your vision of portraying the human-animal bond and inviting me to be a part of this project.”

Tia also thanked everyone who participated in the visioning sessions she conducted.  “You have inspired me,” Tia said.  Additionally she thanked all who participated in the painting.  “Your hands have made this vision richer to behold,” she said. “Together we helped create a lasting symbol of the human-animal bond across cultures.  These beautiful, vivid images shine with their light like a beacon, reminding us of our common good.”

Tia went on to share specific things that influenced the design, including her own love of animals and experiences she had when she was younger and would draw animals that she saw in atlases.  She also explained that one of the first areas she saw when she initially visited the college was the Pet Tribute Garden.  “I was struck by the moving words people wrote and their heartfelt messages to their beloved pets,” Tia said.  “I felt this needed to be honored in the mural and I was moved by how the college wanted to honor that journey for people in such a dignified, meaningful way.”

Tia also shared how she was inspired by paintings displayed in the college that had been done by students, and by their words that were put with the paintings, describing their relationship with animals and the human-animal bond.  “So it sparked joy in my heart to know what a warm, caring and sensitive community this is, and it has been an honor to work with and to get to know each of you through this community mural project,” Tia shared.

“I hope this mural brings you much joy and inspiration for many years to come. I believe we all had a hand in making this the memorable journey it was.”

Tia concluded by saying she believes the mural can be viewed in many ways and she was inspired by some of things people shared with her along the way about what they saw.  “So part of the beauty of this process for me as a community mural artist is that the piece is richer and bigger than what one person could have imagined on their own,” Tia said. “And what does that say about our community? And that’s the beauty of it for me – what each of you brings to it, and each of your own perspectives. And look at this tapestry, showing us our colors, our diversity, our strengths, our beauty.” 

At that point, Tia thanked everyone again, and shared that she decided to call the mural, “Bonding through Life.”

Dean Reed concluded the ceremony by encouraging the attendees to “…enjoy, enjoy, enjoy!”  He added, “So thank you again Tia, and thanks to everybody who participated in this project and for coming tonight as we celebrate and dedicate this marvelous piece of art as an addition to our college.”

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

PVM Continuing Education for Equine Enthusiasts and Veterinary Nurses Meets with Strong Demand

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Lifelong Learning programs that focused on the needs of equine industry professionals and veterinary nurses attracted strong attendance at two programs held during the first part of 2024. Equine enthusiasts turned out in force for the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Equine Wellness Forum. The all-day program on Saturday, February 10, attracted 155 attendees from across Indiana and five other states. The following month, some 175 registrants attended the college’s Veterinary Nursing Symposium. Held Sunday, March 24, the one-day event featured an extensive program covering diverse topics relevant to veterinary nurses working in both large and small animal practices.

The annual Veterinary Nursing Symposium is designed to provide veterinary nurses, veterinary assistants, and veterinary nursing students practical insights applicable to their clinical roles. Participants were eligible for up to seven hours of continuing education (CE) units.

After hearing a welcome and opening remarks by Dr. Chad Brown (PU DVM 2001), Purdue Veterinary Nursing Programs director, symposium participants had the opportunity to choose between sessions offered in large animal and small animal tracks. Symposium speakers included Purdue Veterinary Medicine faculty and staff as well as other veterinary professionals. Outside speakers included Jamie Guiberson, CVT, VTS-EVN, a veterinary emergency and critical care nurse at Penn Vet’s New Bolton Center, and Heidi Lescun, BS, RVT, a service technician/sales associate for Vetamac, which provides anesthesia service and sales.

Small animal presentations offered at the symposium covered the topics of ultrasound, critical thinking, heart and hormones, anesthesia, radiation, and canine lymphoma. Large animal sessions included equine medicine, colic care, podiatry, care of the equine neonate, and dentistry. In addition, the event gave participants the opportunity to develop their professional networks as they interacted with one another as well as exhibitors who set up interactive displays. Special thanks go to the symposium sponsors: Broad Ripple Animal Clinic, Emergency Veterinary Care Centers (EVCC), Noah’s Animal Hospital, Alliance Animal Health, Vetamac, and Boehringer-Ingelheim.

The Equine Wellness Forum is designed to inform horse owners and equine industry professionals about horse health issues ranging from basic preventative healthcare to the latest medical advancements. In addition to talks on a variety of topics, the program also featured three live demonstrations that included the college’s high-speed equine treadmill and sessions on saddle fitting and trailer safety.

Presentations were given by equine specialists on the college’s faculty as well as several outside speakers. The forum began with a welcome and introductory remarks by the head of the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Dr. Catherine Scott-Moncrieff. The program was moderated by Dr. Tim Lescun, professor of large animal surgery.

Other speakers and their topics included:

• Dr. Kelsey Dawson, a sports psychologist for Purdue Counseling & Sports Psychology Services, who spoke about the basics of sports performance skills, such as breathing techniques and meditation. Attendees also had the opportunity to engage in activities allowing them to practice the learned skill.
  
• Dr. Michelle Tucker, assistant professor of large animal surgery, discussed the most common communicable diseases of show horses, and how to prevent them. Her presentation included background about the pathogens, how they are transmitted, and general disease-specific strategies to prevent bringing any infectious diseases home from shows or events where horses are mixing.
  
• Dr. Sarah Waxman, a clinical assistant professor who works with the Purdue University Veterinary Hospital’s Equine Field Service, explained Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue, describing when it is used and basic techniques for moving and lifting horses.
  
• Dr. Erin Wilson, (PU DVM 2008), a nutrition consultant for Cargill Animal Nutrition and a Purdue alumna, spoke on the topic of the nutritional management of senior horses, beginning with senior horse identification and demographics. Special nutritional and management considerations of senior horses were discussed, including dental issues, impaired nutrient absorption, environmental and herd stress, and common concurrent diseases.

Attendees also had the opportunity to hear one of the last presentations by Dr. Janice Kritchevsky during her long tenure as professor of large animal internal medicine. Now professor emeritus, following her retirement June 30, Dr. Kritchevsky used her Equine Wellness Forum talk to provide guidance on how to best care for a senior horse. Diseases that are common in aged horses such as equine asthma, pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction, and chronic lameness also were discussed.

Five Purdue veterinary students in the college’s Equine Club assisted with the demonstrations and gave tours of the David and Bonnie Brunner Equine Hospital at the end of the day. The forum attracted horse enthusiasts with a variety of interests and backgrounds, including racing, jumping, showmanship, dressage, Western, English, and trail riding. Also represented among the attendees were mounted police.

Dates already are set for next year’s programs. The Equine Wellness Forum will be held at Lynn Hall Saturday, February 8, and the Veterinary Nursing Symposium is scheduled for Sunday March 30, 2025.

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

Special Research Days Spotlight PVM’s Role in Scientific Discovery that Benefits Animals and People

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Three special days of research presentations during the spring semester showcased the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine’s basic and clinical research that holds promise for improving health and well-being for animals and humans. The college hosted both the annual PVM Research Day, and a special two-day program of research presentations called “Industry Partner Days,” in April. Both events gave attendees a close look at leading-edge research studies being conducted by PVM research teams.

The annual PVM Research Day featured presentations of research findings by faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and students. The day began with the keynote Phi Zeta lecture, which was given by Dr. Amelia Woolums (PU DVM ’88), a Purdue Veterinary Medicine alumna and the Mikell and Mary Cheek Hall Davis Endowed Professor of Beef Cattle Health and Reproduction in the Department of Pathobiology and Population Medicine at Mississippi State University (MSU).

Visiting Purdue as a PVM Research Day speaker was like a homecoming for Dr. Woolums. After earning her Purdue DVM degree in 1988, Dr. Woolums went on to complete an internship at Kansas State University and a residency at the University of Saskatchewan, before earning her PhD in comparative pathology at UC Davis, where she studied cell-mediated immune response of cattle to BRSV vaccination.

A Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine and the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists, Dr. Woolums works in the Large and Food Animal Medicine specialty service of the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine’s Animal Health Center. She also teaches veterinary students and conducts research on Bovine Respiratory Disease (BRD) prevention, antimicrobial resistance in BRD, and vaccination and immunity in cattle and calves. Dr. Woolums entitled her keynote presentation, “Inflammation and Immunity in Respiratory Disease: What Can We Learn from Cattle?”

At the beginning of her talk, Dr. Woolums referenced her days as a Purdue student and shared a special message for today’s students. “When I was a vet student here, I thought that it really was not right for my professors to have to do research because I thought they should really focus their time on teaching us and helping the animals in the clinic,” Dr. Woolums said. “And those are still very important things but when I went off to do my residency in internal medicine, I learned about a whole lot of things that I didn’t understand at all and I realized that research is how we better understand those things. And so it’s ironic to come here as someone who now really loves doing research and wants to encourage veterinary students to think about working on research and even if you don’t end up doing research, appreciating and understanding why other people need to. You’ll be ahead of where I was, when I was sitting where you are.”

The Research Day agenda also featured a series of parallel panel sessions covering the themes of Animal Welfare, Clinical Research and Comparative Oncology. The talks were recorded and the recordings can be accessed via the PVM Research Day website.

During the noon hour, attendees were able to view research posters describing research projects conducted by graduate students, residents and veterinary students. The more than 70 posters on display were judged by a panel of research scholars who selected first and second place winners in each of three categories: Basic Research, Clinical/Applied Research and DVM Student Research. The largest category was the Basic Research group, which included 34 posters. The Clinical/Applied Research category had 15 posters while the DVM Student Research category had 18 posters, and four posters were submitted in the Non-Competitive category. Congratulations to the following award recipients:

Basic Research

• First Place: Rodrigo Ferreira, graduate research assistant in the Department of Comparative Pathobiology
• Second Place: Shatha Mufti, PhD student in the Interdisciplinary Biomedical Sciences Program

Clinical/Applied Research

• First Place: Eva Kao-Whitesell, DVM, Small Animal Internal Medicine resident in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences
• Second Place: Ellen Kuerbitz, DVM, Oncology resident in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences

Click here to view the Research Day Poster Session abstracts

The afternoon agenda included presentations by finalists in the Osborne Award Competition.

• The first place speaker, Jessica Linder, DVM, a neurology resident, gave a talk entitled, “Placement of a Programmable Ventriculoperitoneal Shunt for Hydrocephalus in a Dog.”
• The second place finalist, Brad Lytle, DVM, a cardiology resident, spoke on the topic, “Pulmonary Stent Angioplasty in a Dog with Right-Sided Congestive Heart Failure and Pre-Pulmonary Coronary Artery.” 
• The third place Osborne Award finalist was clinical pathology resident Camila Benaduce E. Mello, whose presentation was entitled, “Disseminated T-Cell-Rich B-cell Lymphoma in a Horse with Sezary-Like Cells in Peripheral Blood and Presumptive Developmental Transition.”

Additional afternoon talks were given by scholars who received special research awards:

• 2O24 Phi Zeta Omicron Chapter Graduate Student Research Award recipient Ying Cheng Chen, a graduate research assistant in the Department of Basic Medical Sciences, spoke on the topic, “Evaluating Human IL27-Expressing Oncolytic adenovirus for Treating Prostate Cancer.” 
• The recipient of the 2024 PVM Graduate Student Research Award, Grace Mulia, graduate research assistant in the Department of Basic Medical Sciences, gave a presentation entitled, “Developing an lnterleukin-27 Targeted Gene Therapy to Reduce Inflammation in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome.”
• Dr. Nelly Elshafie, a postdoctoral research associate in the Department of Comparative Pathobiology, won the 2024 Manuscript Award, and gave a presentation entitled, “miRNome Expression Analysis in Canine Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma.

The PVM Research Day presentations concluded with a talk by the recipient of the 2023 Zoetis Award for Veterinary Research Excellence, Dr. Kari Ekenstedt, associate professor of anatomy and genetics in the Department of Basic Medical Sciences, who addressed the topic, “Genomic Applications in Dog Genetic Diseases.” Following Dr. Ekenstedt’s talk, attendees reconvened in the Veterinary Medical Library for a reception and awards presentation.

Purdue’s Omicron Chapter of the Society of Phi Zeta – the Honor Society of Veterinary Medicine – participates in the Research Day and as part of the program, introduced newly inducted Phi Zeta members. The PVM Research Day was sponsored by Boehringer Ingelheim, Elanco, Zoetis, VMRD, and the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF).

Industry Partner Days

The college’s Industry Partner Days April 16-17 were held in Purdue University’s Stewart Center and began with a welcome lunch featuring comments from Dr. Karen Plaut, executive vice president for research; Dr. Timothy Lescun, director of the Center for Clinical Translational Research; and Dr. Ramaswamy Subramanian, director of the Bindley Bioscience Center. Participants then had the opportunity to attend multiple 20 minute sessions during the afternoon and the following morning featuring College of Veterinary Medicine scholars sharing about their areas of research. The presentations were grouped into eight categories.

On the afternoon of April 16, a total of 16 sessions covered topics under the headings of Diagnostics, Drug Discovery and Delivery, Antimicrobial Resistance, and Comparative Oncology. The following morning, participants were able to select from an additional 16 presentations related to the categories of Immunotherapy and Vaccines, Novel Technologies, Neuroscience/Ophthalmology, and Equine Medicine.

Additionally, at the conclusion of the afternoon presentations on April 16, attendees were able to peruse more than two-dozen research posters during a Poster Session and Reception. The posters covered both basic research and clinical/applied research, and gave industry representatives the opportunity to talk with graduate students, residents and postdoctoral researchers about their research projects.

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

Meet your PVM Development Team!

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The Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine is pleased to share an update on our Development Team, which includes some new faces! These team members are great resources for anyone interested in how they can make a difference in the lives of animals and people through philanthropy that supports the college.

Kyle Bymaster — Executive Director of Development, Colleges of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine.

Kyle is a Purdue University graduate with a degree in Agricultural Economics (2003), who has worked in development for the College of Agriculture since 2008. In his current role as executive director of development for the Colleges of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, Kyle finds great satisfaction in helping donors align their personal values with meaningful charitable giving opportunities at Purdue. His leadership inspires the college’s team of fundraisers that is dedicated to helping donors achieve their goals and celebrating their contributions in ways that truly matter to them.

April Shepherd — Senior Director of Development

April joined the College of Veterinary Medicine Development Team in March after serving in the College of Agriculture Development Office for six years. Even in her new role, she continues to work with Purdue animal sciences alumni, given the amount of overlap between Purdue animal sciences and veterinary medicine and the potential to work collaboratively to make a greater impact.

April describes her role as connecting alumni and donors back to the college in the areas that are most important to them. “I get the opportunity to meet our alumni and supporters from across the country, and hear their Purdue Stories,” April says. “This is my dream job! As a Purdue graduate myself (BS 2002), the opportunity to meet with our donors to hear their “why” for giving back is very fulfilling.”

Julie Bogan, — Director of Development

Julie serves as the College of Veterinary Medicine’s major gift fundraiser and works to build relationships with loyal Purdue Veterinary Medicine alumni, friends, and supporters. Her efforts facilitate substantial financial contributions to advance Purdue Veterinary Medicine programs, including veterinary education and vital research initiatives.

Julie started working with the college’s Development Team in 2017 and has served in her current role since July, 2021. “My passion for raising funds for the college is driven by the opportunity to advance animal and human health,” Julie said. “Every dollar raised contributes to a healthier and more compassionate world for both animals and people.”

Mackenzie Martin — Director of Client Development

Mackenzie joined the College of Veterinary Medicine’s Development Team in January. As director of client development, she helps identify and engage with grateful clients of the Purdue University Veterinary Hospital, exploring ways they can make meaningful impacts by supporting the hospital and the college. An Indiana native and Purdue graduate with a BA in Professional Writing (2013), Mackenzie has a background working in human services and non-profit organizations. In August 2022, Mackenzie joined the Purdue for Life Foundation as a Donor Experience Officer and excelled in building relationships with Purdue’s loyal supporters. As a client of the Purdue University Small Animal Hospital, Mackenzie has witnessed the exceptional care provided to patients. “I am honored and excited to work with the PVM team and support the college’s mission,” Mackenzie said.

Debbie Dunham — Administrative Assistant

Debbie supports the Development Offices in both the College of Veterinary Medicine and College of Agriculture. She started at Purdue in 2007, working in Ag Statistics before transitioning to the College of Science Business Office in 2013. Then In 2015, she began working as an administrative assistant in the College of Agriculture Development Office. She has supported the College of Veterinary Medicine Development Office since February.

The Purdue Veterinary Medicine Development Team has offices in Lynn Hall and can best be reached at 494-6304 or pvmgiving@purdue.edu.

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

Purdue’s Golden Taps Ceremony Honors Memory of Purdue Veterinary Student Aaron Lewis

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A longstanding Purdue tradition called the Golden Taps Ceremony that is held each April in honor of Purdue students who have passed away in the past year had special meaning for faculty, staff and students in the College of Veterinary Medicine this year. That’s because one of the 13 students remembered during the program April 22 was veterinary student Aaron Lewis, of Marietta, Georgia, a member of the DVM Class of 2025, who passed away in June of 2023.

The Golden Taps program began in the South Ballroom of the Purdue Memorial Union, where family, friends, loved ones and fellow students gathered for remembrance and reflection. Aaron’s parents traveled from Georgia to be present for the ceremony, where they were met by a dozen students, staff and faculty from the College of Veterinary Medicine who came to support them and join in the remembrance.

As the program began, Purdue President Mung Chiang and First Lady Kei Hui stepped in front of the podium to be in a position to personally express their sympathy to each of the grieving families, and to present them with a certificate and a bronze replica of Purdue’s Unfinished Block P sculpture. When Aaron’s name was called, his parents, Patrick and Arnetta, and sister Jada, stepped forward and were greeted by the president and first lady, who handed them the sculpture replica and the certificate, which read, “Purdue University honors the life of Aaron Lewis.”

Following the program in the Union, the attendees processed to the Unfinished Block P sculpture in nearby Academy Park, to reflect on the unfinished Purdue experience of the students whose lives were lost. With the sculpture as a backdrop, the Golden Taps ceremony began with the approaching sound of drums. After the drummers and two trumpeters arrived in front of the sculpture, the name of each honoree was announced, followed by the ringing of a bell. Once all of the student names were read, the trumpeters played Echo Taps, which was followed by three choral selections sung by the Black Voices of Inspiration and the Purduettes. At the conclusion of the ceremony the families and guests returned to the Union to fellowship and share stories over light refreshments.

Golden Taps is a Purdue tradition that dates back to 1994 and involves a collaboration of the Office of the Dean of Students, and several student organizations, including the Reamer Club, Gimlet Leadership Honorary, Purdue Student Union Board, Purdue Student Government and Purdue Graduate Student Government.

After the event, the family of Aaron Lewis shared a personal message of deep appreciation for the support of Aaron’s fellow students, and the college’s staff and faculty.

“It is with sincere hearts that our family expresses tremendous appreciation for the love and support that Purdue University, and the College of Veterinary Medicine faculty, staff and veterinary students have shown our beloved Aaron Lewis during this emotional time. We will forever be grateful and sincerely honored for the effort you have put forth as we remember him and share the pride we feel for his hard work and dedication to his passion for veterinary medicine.

As we continue to reflect on his life, you will always be a SPECIAL part of that reflection.

Forever grateful and with LOVE,
The Lewis Family – Patrick and Arnetta, and sisters Nicolette and Jada

The feeling that the family expressed is mutual, as the members of the Purdue Veterinary Medicine community deeply valued their connection with Aaron and his family – a relationship that will always be treasured.

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

Tree Planting Provides Living Tribute to Beloved PVM Faculty Member Russell Main

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With a strong sense of a void that still remains after the passing November 14 of an admired and highly respected Department of Basic Medical Sciences faculty member, the colleagues, students, friends and family of Dr. Russell Main found a special kind of solace as they gathered for a ceremony in front of Lynn Hall on a cloudy morning in April. The group of close to 80 had come together to see a life-sustaining White Oak tree planted as a living tribute to Dr. Main, who was loved and cherished as a husband, father, colleague, mentor, teacher and research scholar.

The memorial tree planting was suggested by Dr. Main’s widow, Joyce, a professor in Purdue’s School of Engineering Education (ENE). When the idea was shared with Dr. Laurie Jaeger, then head of the Basic Medical Sciences Department, she said she thought it was great, especially given that people still missed Dr. Main daily. The plans came together, leading to the tree planting ceremony April 23 at 8:30 a.m., in a grassy area in front of Lynn Hall, along Harrison Street, near the building’s original main entrance on the west end of the structure.

Brooke Sammons, a landscape architect with Purdue University’s Grounds Department, began the ceremony. “Just look at how many people came out,” Sammons remarked. “He must have been a phenomenal individual and I’m very happy and proud to take part.” She went on to explain that the White Oak selected for the memorial tree planting is a native tree that is good for shade. She also noted that the location is elevated somewhat from the street level, enabling a view northward toward the rest of campus. “So I couldn’t have had the possibility of picking a better location,” Sammons said. “It was just meant to be, just like the rain keeping off.” And indeed, despite threatening skies, not a drop of rain fell until after the ceremony concluded.

Sammons then introduced Joyce, who expressed the family’s warmest thanks to all who contributed to the tree planting, “…to Laurie, and the BMS family, to our ENE family, our friends and neighbors and to Brooke Sammons and the grounds team for selecting this beautiful oak tree to be planted in this ideal spot, next to Russ’s building. Russ would have been so pleased, especially because we are adding to the number of trees being planted following Earth Day,” Joyce shared. “This memorial tree holds so much meaning, and that it is being planted on Russ’s birthday makes it that much more special. I hope you will have a chance to visit the tree over the years to see it grow and to reflect on all of the good things during your visit. Thank you all for your friendship and love and for this beautiful tree in remembrance of Russ.”

Dr. Jaeger also spoke, sharing that when she initially heard the suggestion of planting a memorial tree, she “…had no idea that we would be able to plant it in such a wonderful place, that we’d be able to see every day.” Dr. Jaeger added, “And one of the nice things about it, is that even people who didn’t know Russ Main will get some enjoyment through this. So it is enhancing campus and it’s a way in which Russ’s impact lives on.”

Another person who stepped forward to speak was one of Russ’s graduate students, Tim Arlowe. “I wanted to share a few words on behalf of all of his current and former students,” he said. “I’ve had the privilege of having Russ as a mentor but I also looked-up to him as a dear friend. Under his guidance I’ve learned invaluable lessons that have shaped not only my professional path but lessons that have helped me grow personally. I believe I speak for all the students when I say, Russ was always there for you and gave you the confidence needed to succeed. I believe this tree will always be a representation of the lasting impact Russ has made on all of our lives.”

A faculty colleague in the department, Professor of Basic Medical Sciences Susan Mendrysa, spoke as well. She recalled times when she would hear Dr. Main coming down the hallway in Lynn Hall, because his footsteps were quiet, but always really fast. She also remembered that when Dr. Main was up for tenure, she was impressed by a comment made by a colleague who described Dr. Main as a “thought leader.” She continued, “But most of all we will miss his kindness and having him as a colleague here every day to share our experiences as researchers, as teachers, and just as friends.”
At that point, Sammons offered anyone present the opportunity to take a shovel in hand and help spread dirt around the tree’s base. Joyce and her son and daughter did so first, and were followed by a number of other guests who participated in the same way.

Sammons concluded the ceremony by explaining that the tree will be added to the Purdue Arboretum website as part of the interactive Arboretum Explorer map. In the weeks since the tree planting ceremony, the White Oak has flourished!

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu