For 15 years, the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) and Florida A&M University (FAMU) have partnered to promote increased diversity in the veterinary field.

The Veterinary Leadership through Early Admissions for Diversity (VetLEAD) program facilitated by the schools creates a pathway for high-ability students from FAMU—and as of 2021, Alabama A&M University—to pursue their DVM in Minnesota.

VetLEAD students who complete the program requirements receive priority acceptance to CVM and access to resources such as mentorship from veterinary faculty and advanced students while completing undergraduate studies and the opportunity to work with academic and industry leaders in veterinary medicine. Generous scholarship packages also bring tuition to below in-state rates once they begin the DVM program.

Recently, three FAMU faculty members visited CVM for the first time to meet with community members, tour College buildings, and learn more about the DVM and graduate programs. 

Omolola Betiku, associate professor of animal science; Keawin Sarjeant, associate professor and animal science program leader; and Dr. Glen Wright, director of animal health/veterinary technology; visited on behalf of FAMU. 

During their visit, Beitiku, Sarjeant, and Wright met with academic leadership and instructors from across the College. They also received tours of the Veterinary Diagnostic Lab, the Veterinary Medical Center—including an in-depth look at the newly refreshed Zone and remodeled clinical skills laboratory—the Leatherdale Equine Center, and The Raptor Center. 

The program has successfully attracted students to the DVM program at CVM, and now leaders from both schools are envisioning ways to strengthen VetLEAD further, particularly through faculty collaborations and expanding facets of the program.