New PVM Interim Assistant Dean for Clinical Education Named

As of this week, Dr. Wendy Townsend, professor of Ophthalmology in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, has begun serving as interim assistant dean for clinical education in the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine. Her appointment was effective Wednesday, April 16.

“I am very pleased Dr. Townsend has agreed to assume this responsibility, and I look forward to working with her in this new role,” said Bret Marsh, DVM, dean of the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine.

Dr. Townsend succeeds Dr. Jim Weisman, who today (Friday, April 18) is completing his last day on the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine faculty as he transitions to his new role as chief of academic affairs, research and accreditation for the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). A reception was held in Dr. Weisman’s honor Wednesday, when he was recognized for his 17 years of dedicated and visionary service to the college. A story on the reception will be published at a later date.

A Lexington, Kentucky native, Dr. Townsend earned her DVM degree at Auburn University and then completed her residency at Purdue in 2003, when she was board certified by the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists. She then served seven years on the faculty at Michigan State University before returning to Purdue to join the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences faculty. Dr. Townsend’s particular areas of interest include equine ophthalmology, especially cataract surgery, corneal disease and uveitis, as well as golden retriever pigmentary uveitis and ocular drug delivery. She also serves as Small Animal Chief of Staff in the Purdue University Veterinary Hospital, and provides ocular examinations and surgeries on all species of animals.