Overview

In recognition of the importance and value of diversity in everything we do, Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine is committed to actively promoting diversity and inclusion that embraces the value of the many areas of the veterinary medical profession, and the value of varied cultural backgrounds, ethnicities, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientations, ages, religions, physical and mental abilities of our students, faculty and staff.

Established in 2016, the Diversity and Inclusion Committee in the College of Veterinary Medicine is committed to making and keeping the ISU CVM a welcoming and inclusive place to learn and work.

A highlight of the past three years has been the college’s annual MLK Day of Service. College of Veterinary Medicine faculty, staff and students have volunteered at local organizations and agencies including the Story County Boys and Girls Club, the Boone County Animal Shelter, Food at First, the Story County Community Action Poverty Simulation and Green Hills Retirement Community.

The college’s outreach has also extended to Iowa elementary and secondary schools where college representatives have highlighted veterinary clinical skills at such events as the ISU4U Promise Nights in Des Moines’ King and Moulton Elementary Schools.

College of Veterinary Medicine faculty, staff and students have participated in the Purdue Online Certificate for Diversity and Inclusion in Veterinary Medicine. This program is designed for individuals who want to foster inclusive learning environments at Iowa State and develop skills to succeed as veterinary professionals.

In an effort to continuously improve, this past year the College of Veterinary Medicine this past year underwent an extensive review of its diversity and inclusion activities. Dr. Hilda Mejia Abreu, associate dean of admissions, student life and inclusivity at Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine conducted the review of practices and resources, while suggesting ways to move diversity and inclusion programming forward in the college. This review is being used to advance the college goal of creating a community that is welcoming to all.