The Purdue Veterinary Medicine Community is saddened to learn of the passing of an adjunct associate professor, Dr. Meliton Novilla, who was respected as an influential veterinary toxicologic pathologist. Dr. Novilla earned his DVM degree at the University of the Philippines and later pursued graduate study at Colorado State University, where he earned his master’s and PhD degrees in veterinary pathology.
Dr. Novilla worked for many years as a veterinary toxicologic pathologist at Eli Lilly, playing a crucial role in drug development. Board-certified by the American College of Veterinary Pathologists, he was an adjunct associate professor of anatomic pathology in the College of Veterinary Medicine’s Department of Comparative Pathobiology.
Among those he mentored is Dr. Jessica Fortin, assistant professor in PVM’s Department of Basic Medical Sciences. “He had a great influence on my career path and was an enthusiastic supporter of the college,” Dr. Fortin said. “He leaves a remarkable legacy, including extensive published scientific work on ionophore toxicity, avian parasitic diseases, and additional veterinary pathology related topics. He made impactful contributions as a veterinary toxicologic pathologist at Eli Lilly and two different contract research organizations, including WIL Research and SNBL USA.”
A memorial service is planned for October 25 at noon at Washington Park, 10612 E Washington St, Indianapolis.