Veterinary Boilermakers on the Road: Purdue Veterinary Alumni Reconnect and Celebrate at National Conferences

Guests gather around a Purdue University–branded table outside a bar area with illuminated “Open Daily” and “Flanker” signs, while people chat and watch sports on overhead TVs in a busy indoor venue. — The Purdue Alumni Reception in Las Vegas during the WVC Annual Conference provided a gathering place where PVM alumni could reconnect and hear an update on the college from Dean Bret Marsh.

The veterinary profession is built on lifelong learning, meaningful connections, and a shared commitment to animal and human health. This winter, those values were on full display as Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine alumni, faculty, students and friends gathered at two of the profession’s premier events: the Veterinary Meeting & Expo (VMX) in Orlando, Florida, and the Western Veterinary Conference (WVC) in Las Vegas, Nevada.

The energy at VMX in Orlando was unmistakable. Thousands of veterinary professionals from across the country and around the world came together to exchange ideas, learn about new innovations, and reconnect with colleagues. Purdue was well represented, and it was inspiring to see so many Boilermaker veterinarians and veterinary technicians continuing their commitment to excellence in practice, research, and service.

Guests sit and converse at tables with Purdue University table signs and gold decorations in a modern lounge setting, with additional attendees mingling near a buffet and high-top tables in the background. — Purdue Veterinary Alumni also gathered together during the Purdue Alumni Reception at the VMX Veterinary Conference in Orlando, Florida.

One of the highlights of the Orlando conference was the Purdue Veterinary Alumni Reception. The room quickly filled with familiar faces and enthusiastic conversations. Alumni spanning decades of graduating classes shared stories of their careers, their clinics, and their continued ties to Purdue. Newer graduates and current students connected with seasoned practitioners, while faculty and friends of the college strengthened relationships that continue to support Purdue’s mission.

Just weeks later, that same spirit carried west to Las Vegas for the WVC Annual Conference. Against the vibrant backdrop of the “city that never sleeps,” Purdue alumni once again gathered to reconnect and celebrate their shared roots. The alumni reception at the Flanker Kitchen provided a welcoming space for Boilermakers to pause amid the busy conference schedule. The conversations were lively and infused with thoughtful discussions about the future of veterinary medicine.

Three smiling adults pose together in a hotel lobby, with the woman on the left holding a gold pom-pom; one man wears a Purdue cap and lanyard, and the other is dressed in a suit and tie. — Dean Bret Marsh enjoyed opportunities at the alumni receptions to personally visit with fellow PVM graduates like Dr. Bill Doig of the DVM Class of 1974 and his wife Leslie, who attended the reception at VMX in Orlando.

A special highlight at both conferences was the presence of Purdue Veterinary Medicine Dean Bret D. Marsh, DVM, who spent time engaging with alumni and sharing updates on the college’s exciting momentum. As he shared about expanding opportunities for students, strengthening partnerships and advancing the college’s national impact, the dean’s message was clear: Purdue is moving forward with purpose, and alumni remain an essential part of that journey. Dean Marsh’s genuine interest in reconnecting with graduates and hearing their perspectives reinforced the strong sense of community that defines Purdue Veterinary Medicine.

These gatherings in Orlando and Las Vegas were more than just conference-related events. They were celebrations of the Purdue Veterinary Medicine family, reminding everyone that no matter where our alumni practice or how many years have passed since their graduation, the Purdue connection remains strong.

We are grateful to everyone who attended, shared their time, and helped make these events so memorable. We look forward to continuing these traditions and to seeing even more Boilermakers at future veterinary conferences. Together, we carry forward Purdue’s legacy of compassion, innovation, and excellence in veterinary medicine.

Writer(s): Julia Wickard | pvmnews@purdue.edu

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