NAVC Secures Grant to Elevate Next Generation of Veterinary Medicine Professionals

The North American Veterinary Community (NAVC) has announced a pivotal achievement—a generous grant of $250,000 from the Zoetis Foundation. This funding marks an important milestone in NAVC's ongoing commitment to fostering the next wave of veterinary professionals.

Advancing Opportunities for Aspiring Veterinarians

With this grant, NAVC is set to bolster its Believe and Belong in Veterinary Medicine® pathway program, which is designed to engage middle and high school students interested in exploring careers in veterinary medicine. This initiative aims to provide comprehensive resources, educational opportunities, and support for students across North America.

The funding will facilitate the expansion of the program into new cities, host a greater number of events throughout the year, and develop virtual platforms that will increase accessibility for both students and their families. Highlighting the program's successes, it has already impacted over 1,000 students in the U.S. and Canada since its inception in 2023.

Empowering the Future of Animal Healthcare

Dr. Niccole Bruno, founder and executive director of blendVET Foundation, stated, "Through our Believe and Belong in Veterinary Medicine events, we connect students with established professionals in the field, offering mentorship opportunities that they might not otherwise have." This connection is crucial for young individuals who may be uncertain about their place within the veterinary field.

The additional funding from the Zoetis Foundation is expected to amplify these mentorship opportunities, allowing NAVC and blendVET to develop sustainable mentorship pipelines that support students who may not traditionally see themselves represented in the veterinary profession.

NAVC CEO Gene O'Neill emphasized the organization's dual mission: to provide continuing education for veterinary professionals, while also nurturing aspiring talent in animal healthcare. “Working with the Believe and Belong in Veterinary Medicine program allows NAVC to engage directly with future veterinary students across the country,” he remarked.

Education as the Cornerstone of Change

The Believe and Belong in Veterinary Medicine® program is multifaceted, offering immersive training experiences in various veterinary specialties. Students participating in these events also receive a certificate for six hours of educational exposure. This hands-on engagement not only enriches their understanding of veterinary practices but also allows them to ask questions and receive career advice from experienced professionals. These mentors can significantly influence the professional journeys of students moving forward.

Jeannette Ferran Astorga, executive vice president and president of the Zoetis Foundation, noted, "Empowering the next generation of veterinary professionals is essential for the future of animal health. The Zoetis Foundation is happy to support initiatives that provide youth with meaningful exposure to veterinary careers." This commitment to education signifies a broader effort to cultivate a more inclusive and diverse veterinary community.

Join the Movement

As the program progresses, NAVC encourages passionate individuals to get involved as volunteers and mentors. Together, they can help shape the future of veterinary medicine.

To learn more about upcoming events for the Believe and Belong in Veterinary Medicine® program, visit blendvetfoundation.org/youth-pathways.

About NAVC and the Zoetis Foundation

Founded in 1982, NAVC is a nonprofit organization at the forefront of veterinary continuing education, striving to equip veterinary professionals with the tools and knowledge necessary for superior animal care. Alongside its commitment to education, the Zoetis Foundation aims to improve livelihoods and well-being within the veterinary and farming professions, having already dispensed over $35 million in grants since 2021.

In a world where animal health is increasingly significant, initiatives such as the Believe and Belong in Veterinary Medicine® program play a crucial role in ensuring that future generations are ready to assume the mantle of care and responsibility for animal welfare. Through ongoing support and collaboration, both NAVC and the Zoetis Foundation are laying the groundwork for a robust future in veterinary medicine.