Purdue Veterinary Medicine Dean Bret Marsh Honored at Indiana State Fair

Dean Bret Marsh with Indiana State Fair Board Member Melissa Huff, who nominated him for the Indiana State Fair Lifetime Achievement Award.

The 2025 edition of the Indiana State Fair in Indianapolis brought surprise recognition for the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Dean and Hospital CEO, Dr. Bret Marsh this week. Dr. Marsh was on stage at the State Fair’s Pioneer Village Opry House for a program on Wednesday, August 13, thinking he had been invited to share brief remarks. His understanding of the situation changed quickly, though, when he realized he was not there to give a presentation, but instead to receive special recognition.

The occasion was the presentation of the prestigious Indiana State Fair Lifetime Achievement Award and Lifetime Pass. Dean Marsh was honored for his unwavering commitment to, passion for, and enthusiasm about the Indiana State Fair. And, given that the recognition followed Dean Marsh’s 30-year career as the Indiana state veterinarian, it was no surprise that many agricultural leaders were in attendance for the ceremony, including several of his colleagues at the Indiana State Board of Animal Health.

“This recognition came as a total surprise, and I am truly honored as well as humbled by it,” Dean Marsh said. “Realizing the caliber of the past recipients and their legacy of outstanding and devoted service to Indiana agriculture and Indiana’s iconic State Fair, I am overwhelmed to be counted in their company as a fellow honoree.”

The Lifetime Achievement Award is given to honor individuals for significant contributions to the agriculture industry. Lifetime passes are awarded to people in recognition of their long-term commitment to the Indiana State Fair as demonstrated through volunteerism and service. The passes entitle the recipients to unlimited State Fair admission whenever the fair is open.

Congratulations Dean Marsh!

Indiana State Board of Animal Health members who attended the award ceremony at the Pioneer Village Opry House joined Dean Marsh for a photo op afterward.

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

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