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Boilers, Ballgowns, Boilermaker Pride and PVM!

A group of people are wearing black-tie attire and sitting around a dinner table. There is a projector behind them displaying a winter graphic.
Purdue Veterinary Medicine Dean’s Table: Dr. Britney Scales (PU DVM 2019) and husband, Daniel; Ryan and Vivi Lamb; Jay Reed and Melissa Criswell; Dr. Trisha Keffer (Purdue DVM 2014) and husband, Kyle; and Dean Bret Marsh and Polly. (Photo by Polly).

A collage of photo booth portraits of people wearing props and business attire
Dean Marsh and Polly celebrate at the Boilermaker Ball with Purdue Veterinary Alumni Association (PVAA) board members, Dr. Britney Scales and Dr. Trisha Keffer.

With a fun twist on classic title, the 2026 Purdue Boilermaker Ball provided a meaningful evening of celebrating Purdue University’s distinguished heritage and traditions, and the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine was proud to be part of the event.  Dubbed “A Midwinter Night’s Dream,” the festive function February 28 at the Indianapolis Marriott Downtown proved to be one enchanted evening!  PVM alumni and donors were among the guests for the creative black-tie event, and enjoyed the opportunity to visit and share the common commitment to veterinary medicine, animal health, and the mission of the College of Veterinary Medicine.

Dean Bret D. Marsh and his wife Polly hosted a table and appreciated the opportunity to visit with alumni and supporters during the evening. Such occasions help engender enthusiasm and camaraderie centered around the college’s role in preparing the next generation of veterinary professionals.

The 18th annual Boilermaker Ball was presented by the Purdue for Life Foundation and enabled guests to embrace the charm of an enchanted garden in full bloom.  Held as an Indianapolis event since its inception, the event now has added significance with the development of Purdue University in Indianapolis as a new urban campus that further extends Purdue University’s mission and impact.

Writer(s): PVM News | pvmnews@purdue.edu

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