As they crossed the stage during the 2024 College of Veterinary Medicine Commencement Ceremony, graduate and DVM students took their first steps into a new chapter in their lives.

The ceremony was held on May 11 in Ted Mann Concert Hall on the University of Minnesota (UMN) campus. More than 100 students received their DVM, master of public health, master of science, and doctorate degrees during the ceremony, which provided in-person and virtual viewing options for both graduates and guests.

The occasion marks the culmination of years of study and work across classrooms, clinical rotations, laboratories, and in the field to earn their respective degrees. This year’s graduates also faced hardships in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The past few years have been incredibly challenging for all of us. You did not ask for or deserve the challenges that the pandemic created, but you have demonstrated your tenacity, creativity, and adaptability in successfully completing your program,” CVM Dean Dr. Laura Molgaard told graduates. “These are important skills that will be critical in your career.”

More than 100 DVM students and a dozen graduate students were conferred degrees during the ceremony.

After each graduate received their hood and diploma, UMN Regent Mary Turner conferred the degrees, and Dr. Ann Brownlee, ’89 DVM, president of the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association, administered the Veterinarian’s Oath to DVM graduates.

This year’s class joins more than 5,000 veterinarians and scientists who have graduated from CVM and are making an impact across the world in a variety of fields.

“Whether you choose a career in clinical practice, in research, with government agencies, the military, industry, or higher education, there is no doubt you will have a profound effect on society,” Molgaard said.