Friends and alumni of the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine who have committed a major gift to the new hospital project recently joined Dean Willie Reed and the college’s development office for a live, virtual hospital update. More than 25 alumni and friends participated in the Zoom event Tuesday, July 21.
The evening began with a welcome from Chief Development Officer Tanya Finkbiner and continued with a comprehensive construction site update utilizing live camera footage from Cy Rangel, the construction project manager. Flad Architects provided fly-over animation videos for each of the hospitals – Small Animal, Equine, and Farm Animal – allowing all attendees to get a visual taste of what is on the horizon.
In addition to the opportunity to see the visual updates of the building project, participants also were able to sense the excitement of hospital team leaders and the hospital director, Dr. Ellen Lowery. “It is important for donors to see and hear from the people they are supporting through this building project,” Dr. Lowery said. “This unique time provided a fantastic opportunity for the hospital unit leaders to share their excitement and gratitude to the people who are making it possible.”
Hospital team leaders who participated in the virtual event included:
- Dr. Nolie Parnell – Small Animal Chief of Staff
- Dr. Paula Johnson – Emergency and Critical Care
- Dr. Stephanie Thomovsky – Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation
- Dr. Melissa Lewis – Neurology
- Dr. Mark Rochat – Small Animal Surgery
- Dr. Wendy Townsend – Ophthalmology
- Dr. Larry Adams – Small Animal Internal Medicine
- Dr. Caroline Fulkerson – Diagnostic Imaging
- Dr. Ann Weil – Anesthesiology
- Dr. Jan Hawkins – Large Animal Surgery
- Dr. Laurent Couëtil – Large Animal Internal Medicine
The team leaders shared their excitement about the advantages that the new hospital will offer, including increased room space, better workflow, heightened safety measures, design enhancements for animals’ comfort and well-being, and added space for intermediate care.
“It was a wonderful night of sharing and celebration of what is to come,” said Tanya, speaking on behalf of the development team. “We have a long way to go with a lot to be thankful for.” Continued updates will be posted to the college and campaign websites and social media platforms.
Purdue Veterinary Medicine is at 41% of its fundraising goal of $8.1 million.
