Purdue's School of Veterinary Medicine celebrates 50 years

West LaFayette, Ind.

-- The School of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue University is celebrating its 50th anniversary.

"This is a very important milestone in the life of our school, and it's wise for us to take this opportunity to recognize the history of a great school that serves a great profession," says Dr. Willie Reed, the school's dean. "We want to appreciate the contributions and accomplishments of so many who've given so much to our school since it opened its doors in the fall of 1959. We want to spend some time - much as a family would - taking stock of our heritage, lauding our success and looking together into a future filled with new opportunities."

Home to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital and the Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, the school serves as a major referral center for the diagnosis and treatment of diseases of all species of companion and food animals, as well as exotic pets and wildlife.

A number of events are scheduled throughout the year to celebrate the school's anniversary.

On April 14, Phi Zeta Day will sponsor poster presentations about current studies on understanding and improving treatment of animal and human diseases with several distinguished speakers scheduled.

Forty painted sculptures of dogs will go on display around Lafayette, West Lafayette and the Purdue campus starting in May and will remain up through September. The project celebrates both the school's 50th anniversary and the 100th anniversary of the Art Museum of Greater Lafayette.

Derby Day at Indiana Downs will take place on May 9.

Service project and mission trips are scheduled for May and June with veterinary school alumni, faculty, staff and students participating in two service projects, one in Indiana and the other overseas.

The school will have an exhibit at the Indiana State Fair Aug. 7 to showcase its growth. And a black-tie gala event will take place Sept. 24 featuring entertainment and recognition of key events and personalities in the school's history.