Laura K. Molgaard, DVM, has been named to lead the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine as its next dean, effective June 21, 2021. The announcement follows a national search that put forward Molgaard and one other finalist for consideration. 

Molgaard has served as interim dean since August 2019 and has been a faculty member in the College since 1997. She has been a member of the College’s leadership team for 20 years, overseeing the doctor of veterinary medicine (DVM) educational program and working collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students to advance excellence in curriculum, teaching, and student support. Prior to joining the University, Molgaard worked as a small animal veterinarian and as an instructor in various health-related programs.

“I look forward to encouraging more of the great work that made this one of the world’s premier colleges of veterinary medicine,” Molgaard said. “I am fortunate to be starting from a position of strength and opportunity, and I’m proud to be the first woman to lead the College as dean.”

The announcement was made by Rachel T.A. Croson, the University’s Executive Vice President and Provost, whose office named the dean search committee. 

“I am confident that Dr. Molgaard will provide excellent collaborative leadership as dean that will continue to build on the college’s teaching, research, outreach, and clinical excellence,” Croson says. “Please join me in thanking Dr. Molgaard for her service in the interim role over the past 22 months and in welcoming her as the new dean.”

Molgaard brings a breadth of experience to the position. She is the author or co-author of numerous peer-reviewed academic papers, book chapters, and resources for Competency-based Veterinary Education (CBVE). Molgaard also is a frequent presenter at international, national, and local conferences on veterinary and interprofessional education.

Molgaard was honored in March 2020 with the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges’ Presidential Award for Meritorious Service in recognition of her accomplishments contributing to an international effort to develop competencies, milestones, and entrustable professional activities for veterinary education. She earned her academic degrees from Iowa State University and was recently recognized with the Stange Award for Meritorious Service in Veterinary Medicine by her alma mater.