Texas Tech opens Texas’ first new veterinary school in more than a century

Image provided by Texas Tech University

After breaking ground on construction in early 2020, Texas Tech University’s School of Veterinary Medicine has officially opened its doors. The occasion was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrating the first new veterinary school in Texas in more than 100 years, according to a press release from Texas Tech.Texas Governor Greg Abbot spoke at the event, which was attended by state officials, donors, and members of the veterinary community from across the state.¹

“The Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine, like Texas Tech University, was established to fill a vital need,” said Texas Tech President Lawrence Schovanec. “As the first century of Texas Tech University comes to an end, we can be proud that the School of Veterinary Medicine strengthens the foundation and expands the capability of our university to serve West Texas, our state and the nation for the next 100 years and beyond.”

The Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine spans 185,000 sq ft and features modern, “world-class” facilities, according to the release.1 Following the ribbon cutting, guests toured the campus and got a first-hand look at the interactive classrooms, state-of-the-art research laboratories, teaching laboratories, student support areas, and more.

“Being a part of something historic like this is a once-in-a-generation, maybe even a one-in-many-generations, opportunity,” said Guy Loneragan, dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine. “Visionary leaders at Texas Tech, here in Amarillo and across Texas made this possible. It has been a privilege to learn from these inspiring people.Now I get to work with a community of students, staff and faculty that is second to none. I am so very thankful for what everyone has contributed to make this possible and the opportunity to be a part of our wonderful community.”

“This is a historic day for Texas Tech and everyone who loves animal agriculture,” Governor Abbott said. “I am proud to stand by Texas Tech as you open this first-rate, state-of-the-art veterinary school.”

“Opening the vet school is like opening a wide gate to opportunity for students and for our economy,” Nelson said. “The benefits will multiply across our state and its agriculture economy for decades to come.”

The Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine in Amarillo was established in 2018. In March 2021, the school was granted the status of Provisional Accreditation, from the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) Council on Education (COE).

Reference

Texas Tech celebrates School of Veterinary Medicine with official ribbon cutting. News release. Texas Tech University. April 22, 2022.