Generous Giving Propels College of Veterinary Medicine Forward

Monday, December 12, 2022

The College of Veterinary Medicine’s philanthropic family continues to provide expanded support for veterinary students, animal health care, and research initiatives. The 2021-22 fiscal year was the second year in a row in which the college exceeded a total of $20 million in philanthropic support. From alumni, to clients, to animal lovers and our own faculty, staff, and students, we are grateful for the investments that enhance Purdue Veterinary Medicine programs and meet vital needs. Some highlights from the most recent fiscal year include:

Several major gifts and hundreds of annual giving dollars came together to bring new and necessary equipment to the brand new David and Bonnie Brunner Purdue Veterinary Medical Hospital Complex.
Dr. Donald McCrosky (PU DVM ’68) named the Donald J. McCrosky Equine Sports Medicine Center in support of equine research.
Mr. D. Mike Asem (PU Liberal Arts 2014) created a veterinary scholarship honoring his father, Dr. Elikplimi Asem, a long-time PVM professor of physiology, former associate dean for research, and former interim dean.
Veterinary Nursing Distance Learning student Karen “Coco” Schefmeyer and her husband, Don, established an endowment to perpetually support distance learning students. This new scholarship is helping to draw vital attention to the importance of veterinary nurses in the veterinary workforce.
Drusilla and Tom Sawyer, clients of the Purdue University Veterinary Hospital, pledged significant perpetual funding for the hospital’s Cardiology Service to ensure its longevity and growth over time.
Numerous new annual donors joined existing loyal supporters in giving to our Priority 4 Paws Shelter Medicine Program, which supports pet adoptions by providing spay and neuter surgeries for shelter animals while simultaneously providing hands-on experience for DVM and veterinary nursing students.

We are deeply grateful for the ongoing loyal support of our donors. Thank you for entrusting us to bring good to the world through veterinary medicine.

Q/A with Donor Mike Asem

Dr. Asem smiles at the camera — Dr. Elikplimi Asem

These comments in question-and-answer format reflect Mr. Mike Asem’s thoughts about giving to Purdue Veterinary Medicine in honor of his father, longtime professor of physiology, Dr. Elikplimi Asem.

Describe your affiliation and history with Purdue Veterinary Medicine?

It was my father’s work at the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine that first introduced me to being a lifelong fan of the university. When I went to Purdue for my own college education I had many great opportunities, including my first experiences with startups, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Mike stands smiling next to the sculpture — Mike Asem stands beside the “Unfinished Block P” sculpture on the Purdue West Lafayette campus – a symbol of the importance of lifelong learning and self-improvement for all members of the Purdue family.

What influenced you to make a gift to support the college?

My father has contributed over 30 years of his life to the college, and I know that his time there has been one of the most rewarding experiences in his life.

What inspired you to honor your father through your gift?

Among my father’s many contributions and achievements, he was the first Black person to become full professor in the history of the College of Veterinary Medicine. He also was the first Black person to serve as associate dean for research and interim dean of the college.

How do you hope to encourage others through your philanthropy?

Without scholarships my father would not have been able to receive a university education, and therefore would not have been able to have the fulfilling career he has had. It is our hope that others can experience increased opportunities that lead to rewarding careers in the veterinary medical profession as well.

Writer(s): Purdue Veterinary Medicine News | pvmnews@purdue.edu