The Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine will recognize five graduates as 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients during a new awards event this evening, Friday, April 17. The inaugural Dean’s Dinner of Distinction will feature the official presentation of the college’s prestigious Distinguished Alumni Awards, which recognize graduates whose careers exemplify excellence, leadership, and service across the veterinary profession.
Earlier in the day, the awardees also will have the opportunity to engage with PVM students, faculty, and staff, during a new companion event, the “Lunch and Learn” Distinguished Alumni Panel. The honorees will share insights gleaned during their illustrious careers and offer guidance to the next generation of veterinary professionals. The event begins at 12:30 p.m. in Lynn 1136.
“These individuals represent the very best of Purdue Veterinary Medicine,” said Dean Bret D. Marsh, DVM. “Their impact has extended far beyond their individual careers as they have shaped communities, advanced animal and human health, and strengthened the profession as a whole.”
The 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients are:
Dr. Nicholas Frank (PU DVM ’93, PhD 2002)
An internationally recognized expert in equine endocrinology and laminitis, Dr. Nicholas Frank has had an impactful career spanning academia, research, and leadership. After earning his Purdue DVM degree, he worked for two years in private equine practice before returning to Purdue University to complete his residency training and PhD. He then held faculty and leadership positions at the University of Tennessee and later Tufts University, where he served as chair of the Department of Clinical Sciences and associate dean for academic affairs. In 2023, he was named dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University. His work continues to influence veterinary education and research on a global scale.
Dr. Rob Jackman (PU DVM ‘95)
The veterinary career of Dr. Rob Jackman reflects a strong commitment to rural veterinary practice and community engagement. He earned both his BS degree in agriculture and his DVM degree at Purdue. Dr. Jackman grew up in the veterinary practice of his father and fellow Purdue graduate, Dr. Robert N. Jackman, and he now operates the Jackman Animal Clinic – a mixed animal practice in Milroy, Indiana. A leader in numerous professional and local organizations, including the Indiana Veterinary Medical Association, where he served as chairman of the Board of Directors, Dr. Jackman is known for his dedication to animal agriculture, mentorship, and community development.
Dr. Allison Kowlowitz (PU DVM 2020)
As an emerging leader in the profession, Dr. Allison Kowlowitz quickly achieved distinction in the field of feline medicine and emergency care. Since earning her Purdue DVM degree in 2020, she has practiced in both primary care and emergency settings in Indiana. She currently is pursuing board certification in feline practice and holds multiple certifications in Fear Free, Low Stress Handling, and Feline Friendly care. Her veterinary career is characterized by both dedication to patient wellbeing and innovation in companion animal medicine.
Dr. Jennifer Miller (PU DVM 2008)
The illustrious career of Dr. Jennifer Miller bridges clinical practice and extensive experience in the animal health industry. After working several years in small animal practice, she joined Elanco, where she has contributed to veterinary medical strategy and product development across a range of pet health solutions. Her work focuses on infectious and zoonotic diseases, preventative care, and strengthening the human-animal bond, helping advance veterinary medicine through innovation and education.
Dr. Duane Murphy (PU DVM ’84, PhD ‘94)
Dr. Duane Murphy’s veterinary career has been defined by his dedication to animal agriculture and veterinary diagnostics. After earning his Purdue DVM degree in 1984, Dr. Murphy worked in a mixed animal practice before returning to Purdue to pursue a PhD in veterinary pathobiology and serve as a diagnostic pathologist for the Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory in West Lafayette, now called the Reed ADDL. Upon completion of his PhD program, he became director of the regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory in Southern Indiana, now called the Heeke Lab, which he successfully managed for nearly two decades. He later contributed significantly to the poultry industry as a company veterinarian and continues sharing his expertise as a consultant in retirement.
The evening Distinguished Alumni Awards celebration will conclude with remarks from Dean Marsh, who will share updates on the College of Veterinary Medicine’s continued growth and its commitment to advancing veterinary education, research, and service.
More information about the PVM Distinguished Alumni Awards program is available here.
