Regardless of the weather, spirits were bright during two special events that heralded the arrival of graduation day for veterinary technician and DVM students in Purdue Veterinary Medicine’s Class of 2026. The College of Veterinary Medicine hosted two Senior Send-off events in the past week to give the new graduates a chance to celebrate their post-graduation plans in the company of classmates, faculty and staff.
The Senior Send-off for the DVM graduates was held outside the Brunner Equine Hospital Friday afternoon, May 8, complete with food and festivities that included a photo booth, a dunk tank, and an appearance by Purdue Pete and the Boilermaker Extra Special. The photo booth was especially popular, as the graduates were able to write on whiteboards their future plans and display them for snapshots. Additionally, the dunk tank provided an enticing opportunity for students, faculty and staff to test their throwing arms as they sought to strike the lever that would release the dunk tank seat and send the celebrity victims splashing into a pool of water.
Though skies initially were gray and some rain dampened the setting, the sun came out later and a lighthearted atmosphere reigned throughout the event. In particular, attendees enjoyed the opportunity to try to knock Interim Associate Dean for Hospital Operations, Dr. Christopher Fulkerson, Director of Hospital Operations Joey Woodyard, and Clinical Assistant Professor of Equine Theriogenology, Dr. Justin Hayna, into the dunk tank pool. For the most part, the celebrity volunteers evaded the dunking, until Dr. Fulkerson’s son stepped up and repeatedly sent the celebs splashing into the water.
On Wednesday, May 13, the veterinary technician graduates in the Class of 2026 had their chance to share plans for their Next Giant Leaps at their Senior Send-off, which was held in the connecting hallway between Lynn Hall and the Brunner Small Animal Hospital. Their event also included the opportunity to write out where they are heading post-graduation and to display the signs for photo ops. Veterinary Technology Program staff and faculty attended to visit with the graduates and cheer them on as they shared their plans for the next chapter in their careers.
During the event, Assistant Dean for Veterinary Technology Programs Mindy Anderson presented a special award to Abbi White, BS, RVT, clinical rotation supervisor for the Veterinary Technology Program. She received the Veterinary Technology Outstanding Clinical Teaching Award in recognition of her dedication, effectiveness and positive impact as a mentor in the Veterinary Technology Program. She was selected for the award on the basis of a vote by the veterinary technology student body. She received a plaque with an engraved inscription commending her for demonstrating superior ability as an educator who stimulates students’ motivation to acquire knowledge and skills; facilitates learning outside of formal settings; and serves as a positive role model and advocate for the profession.
Both Senior Send-off events proved to be fun, lively and uplifting ways for faculty and staff to join with the graduates in celebrating their successful completion of their degree program and plans for their Next Giant Leap.
Congratulations to all the DVM and veterinary technology graduates in the Class of 2026!
