Dechra Expands Commitment to Veterinary Profession with New American Veterinary Medical Foundation Scholarships
Wednesday, February 19, 2025
Nearly $50,000 in scholarships continues a decade-long effort of supporting veterinary students and now expands to veterinary technicians
Overland Park, Kan. (February 19, 2025) – Dechra is deepening its investment in the next generation of veterinary professionals by expanding its partnership with the American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF) and offering 20 scholarships for veterinary and veterinary technician students. This latest initiative builds on Dechra’s long-standing support of veterinary education, mentorship, and student wellness.
For years, Dechra has provided financial support to students specializing in internal medicine, dermatology, and equine sports medicine. This year, the company is enhancing its commitment by introducing scholarships for veterinary technician students, broadening its impact across the profession.
Dechra recognizes that the company’s resilience depends on the resilience of the communities in which we live and operate. This initiative aligns directly with Dechra’s global sustainability strategy, which focuses on strengthening these communities. By offering time, expertise, products, and financial support, the company is committed to building a sustainable future and fostering long term community wellbeing.
"Through our ongoing collaboration with AVMF, Dechra is reinforcing its commitment to supporting the next generation of veterinarians and veterinary technicians," said Dr. Jill Stohs, senior director, Veterinary Professional Services and Medical Affairs, Dechra. "These scholarships not only provide financial relief but also recognize and support students who exemplify excellence and leadership in their respective fields."
The 2024 scholarship recipients are:
Dermatology
Dariann Ludwig, St. George's University
Emily Mackey, St. George's University
Mallory Ryan, St. George's University
Lakhia Fuller, NC State University
Natalie Gracia, The Ohio State University
Equine Sports Medicine
Alyssa Willibey, St. George’s University
Sarah Wise, The University of Arizona
Kristen Larson, Arkansas State University
Matthew Lindemann, Oregon State University
Brooke Foster, Texas Tech University
Internal Medicine
Jenner Brown, Texas A&M University
Cassidy Scatena, Texas A&M University
Emily Weant, University of Georgia
Isabella Kruba, Texas A&M University
Barrett Barksdale, Mississippi State University
Veterinary Technician
Eve Lopez, Columbia State Community College
Ava McNamara, University of New Hampshire
Clara De-Souza, SUNY Delhi
Jenna Driscoll, Michigan State University
Grace Moody, University of New Hampshire
Dechra’s commitment to veterinary education extends beyond scholarships. Over the past five years, the company has invested nearly $1 million in veterinary student support initiatives, including educational events, mentorship programs, and hands-on learning experiences.
Student Voices: The Impact of Dechra’s Support
Many scholarship recipients have shared how Dechra’s values align with their personal and professional aspirations.
Kristen Larson, an Iowa State University veterinary student and one of this year’s recipients, emphasized how Dechra’s commitment to ambition resonates with her journey: "Many of Dechra's core values are ones I strive to live by. I have long had ambitious goals, and at each step of my veterinary journey, I’ve found opportunities to challenge and improve myself. Dechra’s support is a tremendous boost as I prepare to enter the profession I am so passionate about."
Sarah Wise, a recipient of the Equine Sports Medicine scholarship and a past Dechra student ambassador, highlighted the value of dedication: "Going through a doctoral program later in life has required immense dedication. Even on difficult days, staying committed to my goals has been key to my success. The support from Dechra affirms that hard work and perseverance are truly valued in this profession."
Academic Leaders Applaud Dechra’s Support
Veterinary faculty members have praised Dechra’s commitment to fostering the next generation of veterinary professionals.
"Scholarships such as these from Dechra have an enormous impact," said Dr. Audrey K. Cook, professor of Veterinary Internal Medicine at Texas A&M University. "We are absolutely delighted that three of the five scholarships for students with an interest in Internal Medicine were awarded to Aggies!"
Dr. Tara Paterson, associate dean at St. George’s University, also emphasized Dechra’s positive impact on students: "St. George’s University is thrilled that four of our students received Dechra scholarships in Equine Sports Medicine and Dermatology – more than any other veterinary school. This achievement speaks to the quality and dedication of our students, and we sincerely appreciate Dechra’s support in fostering their success."
Learn More
To learn more about Dechra’s veterinary and veterinary technician scholarships through AVMF, visit:
For additional details on Dechra’s Student Ambassador Program, contact Dr. Timothy Smaha at timothy.smaha@dechra.com.
About AVMF
The American Veterinary Medical Foundation (AVMF) is the charitable arm of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), one of the oldest and largest veterinary medical organizations in the world. For almost 60 years, AVMF has been dedicated to developing resources to advance the science and practice of veterinary medicine to improve animal and human health. Foundation programs and activities are designed to benefit veterinary medicine, promote animal welfare, and enhance research so that the profession is better prepared to deal with difficult problems facing animal health today and tomorrow. Charitable contributions and support to the Foundation assist veterinarians and the entire veterinary healthcare team help animals. Our funding priorities include Education, Disaster Relief, Crisis Support, Charitable Veterinary Care and Animal Health Research.
About Dechra
Dechra is a global specialist in veterinary pharmaceuticals and related products. The company focuses on the development, manufacturing, and marketing of high-quality veterinary products to support animal health and welfare worldwide. For more information, visit: www.dechra.com.
Media Contact
Lauren Dorsch
913-914-6903
Lauren.Dorsch@dechra.com
