December Graduation Celebration Honors Veterinary Nursing Graduates

Friday, January 27, 2023

Jennifer stands behind the podium with the graduates standing beside her, reciting the oath — Jennifer Smith, RVT, RLAT leads the December Purdue Veterinary Nursing Programs’ graduates in reciting the Veterinary Technician Oath of Ethical Conduct. Pictured (left-right): bachelor’s degree recipients Nathanial Swegman, Abbigale White, Lauren Kleiman and Alexis Louden, and associates degree recipients Macy Holskey and Jenna Vandewalle.

“This is a truly remarkable class,” Purdue Veterinary Medicine Dean Willie Reed said as he began the 2022 Purdue Veterinary Nursing Graduation Celebration in Lynn Hall on Saturday, December 17. The program marked a very special occasion for the graduates and their families, as students earning the Veterinary Nursing Associate in Applied Science degree and Veterinary Nursing Bachelor of Science degree were recognized.

“Graduates, you had the unique experience of completing your veterinary education in the midst of a global pandemic,” Dean Reed said. “As the world faced unprecedented challenges, and colleges and universities across the country had to adapt to find new ways to safely educate their students, you persevered in your learning.”

Lauren and Jenna smile as they display their decorated graduation caps — Veterinary Nursing Distance Learning Program graduates Lauren Kleiman and Jenna Vandewalle display their decorated graduation caps.

Dean Reed then asked the graduates to come forward to receive the Purdue University Veterinary Nursing pin, presented by Instructional Technologist Holly McCalip, BS, RVT, as their names were read by Dr. Chad Brown, Veterinary Nursing Programs director. “What makes Purdue unique is that we have two separately accredited veterinary nursing programs,” Dr. Brown told the audience after stepping to the podium. “We have a distance learning program with students all over the world. And then we have an on-campus program where students are learning here. And amongst these six graduates present at this celebration today, we have students in both programs and I think that’s so unique in that there’s very few colleges that can offer that kind of experience.”

Dr. Brown then introduced each of the graduates present, including two who earned their associates degree through the distance learning program and four students in the on-campus program who earned their bachelor’s degree. “Graduates, your charge is to set the visible standard for what a Purdue University veterinary nurse is and does. In so doing, you will pave the way for all those graduates who will follow behind you,” Dr. Brown told the graduates. “The future of the veterinary nursing profession is placed into your hands. We trust that you will serve it well.”

Then the graduates remained up front to recite the Veterinary Technician Oath of Ethical Conduct, symbolizing their acceptance into the veterinary nursing profession. “The oath signifies our high regard for the ethical standards and legal regulations governing the practice of veterinary nursing, our strong commitment to the highest standards of patient care and client service, and our dedication to the animals that we serve,” Dean Reed said, before introducing Instructional Technologist Jennifer Smith, RVT, RLAT, who was chosen by the students to lead them in reciting the oath. As Jennifer stepped to the podium, she invited the graduates and all veterinary nurses in the audience to stand and recite the oath together.

Veterinary Technician Oath of Ethical Conduct

I dedicate myself to serve as a member of the modern veterinary team, as together we serve the needs of mankind, animal welfare, and our community.

Working in a clinical practice, research, or industry, I will faithfully abide by all laws, regulations, and ethical codes that govern veterinary technicians. I will conduct myself in a manner which inspires the respect and confidence of my employer, colleagues, and the public.

I will seek the mutual exchange of counsel and assistance with the clinical staff when it appears that the quality of service will be improved. I will strive to better my skills by keeping current my knowledge of new methods and ideas and by maintaining an open mind.

Since the veterinary technician is a member of a professional team entrusted with the responsibility of the care and well-being of the animal kingdom, I make this oath with utmost sincerity and devotion.

The program concluded with a round of applause for the graduates before everyone reconvened in the nearby Veterinary Medical Library for a reception. Congratulations to all the December Veterinary Nursing graduates!

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