Training Tomorrow’s Animal Health Leaders: FAMU's Veterinary Tech Program Shines
In the heart of Florida, a revolution is brewing in animal health education at Florida A&M University (FAMU). With innovation and compassion at its core, the University’s College of Agriculture and Food Sciences (CAFS) is nurturing the next generation of leaders through its Veterinary Technology Program (VTP). Known for a distinct approach that melds hands-on training with ethical foundations, the VTP is not just teaching students but inspiring future leaders in animal health care.
Groundbreaking Beginnings
Launched with a vision in 2006 and opening its doors to the first cohort in 2010, the VTP has blossomed from humble beginnings into a flagship program at FAMU. Starting with just seven passionate students, the program’s growth mirrors its relevance and success—currently enriching the educational journey of nearly 40 students each semester.
Bridging Academic and Professional Landscapes
Director Glen Wright, DVM, describes the program as transcending pure technical skill, embedding values of empathy and professionalism. “We’re committed to shaping graduates who thrive in any veterinary setting, from intimate clinics to sprawling research labs,” Wright emphasizes. The VTP paves pathways to diverse career options, with alumni finding roles as certified veterinary technicians, research specialists, and more.
Hands-On Learning: From Clinics to Zoos
The unique structure of the VTP includes dynamic internships and service-learning modules, offering students a full spectrum of experiences. Rotations through local clinics, state laboratories, and zoos provide students with a taste of real-world challenges. Junior student Dawkins, for instance, recounts her transformative journey volunteering at the Leon County Humane Society, gaining confidence and competence.
Embracing Diversity in Veterinary Care
A forward-thinking approach is central to the VTP’s ethos, emphasizing the importance of caring for all creatures, great and small. As Dawkins reflects, “I realized the scarcity of exotic veterinarians. There’s a need for specialists who understand animals beyond dogs and cats. I want to fill that gap.” This spirit of inclusivity is transforming the landscape of animal care.
A Legacy in the Making
According to Florida A&M University - FAMU, with a robust network of industry partnerships and cutting-edge facilities, the Veterinary Technology Program at FAMU is setting new standards for agricultural and veterinary education in the Southeast. As Dean G. Dale Wesson asserts, the program is more than an educational initiative; it’s a testament to FAMU’s commitment to advancing agricultural innovation and community service.
By cultivating leaders equipped with skills, compassion, and a vision for the future, FAMU’s VTP continues to affirm its position as a keystone in the university’s agricultural legacy. As Neil James, associate dean for Academic Programs, articulates, “Our graduates are prepared to not just meet industry needs but to redefine them.”
As the College of Agriculture and Food Sciences continues to propel FAMU toward a brighter future, its focus remains unwavering—empowering students to make meaningful contributions to animal and human health alike, truly putting the “A” in FAMU.
