A new tradition began in April as the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine hosted the first Dean’s Dinner of Distinction to celebrate the college’s 2026 Distinguished Alumni and recognize Purdue Veterinary Medicine accomplishments over the past year. Held April 17 in the festive setting of the Buchanan Club in the Ross Ade Pavilion, the event attracted 180 guests.
The evening began with a reception complete with an appearance by Purdue Pete who helped amp up the atmosphere in the pavilion, which offers a stunning view of the football stadium and Rohrman Field. As guests mixed and mingled, they were able to visit with PVM Distinguished Alumni who were given special sashes to wear indicating that they were either 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients or former honorees. The reception also featured research posters showcasing the work of graduate student scholars.
Attendees then moved into the Buchanan Club, which was elegantly decorated for the dinner – providing a perfect setting for the recognition of the 2026 Distinguished Alumni.
The program began with an introduction by Senior Director of Development April Shepherd, who welcomed the audience of Purdue Veterinary Medicine alumni, donors, faculty and emeriti, staff, students and family and friends. Then Shepherd recognized the generosity of supporters and scholarship donors and introduced two veterinary students, Emma Zaicow and Cole Wilcox, both of the DVM Class of 2027, who shared about the vital and tremendous impact that financial aid has had on their Purdue Veterinary education.
The highlight of the evening came next as the five 2026 Distinguished Alumni were recognized after being introduced by Executive Director of the Purdue Veterinary Alumni Association and Constituent Liaison Julia Wickard. Congratulations to the following honorees:
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. He was named dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University in 2023. His work continues to influence veterinary education and research on a global scale.
Due to a schedule conflict, Dr. Frank was not able to attend to receive his award in person, but provided a video in which he shared his appreciation for the recognition and described how much it means to him.
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 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.
Following the recognition of the new Distinguished Alumni, Dean Marsh shared key college accomplishments and highlights from the past year, and commended the work of the faculty and staff. As the program concluded, the guests stayed to visit with friends and colleagues and congratulate the newly honored Purdue Veterinary Medicine Distinguished Alumni.
Earlier in the day, the new Distinguished Alumnus Award recipients shared insights with current veterinary students at a new companion event, the “Lunch and Learn” Distinguished Alumni Panel. The discussion, structured as a question and answer session led by Dean Marsh, was held in Lynn 1136.
