This year marks the advent of the college’s 125^th year anniversary. The formal establishment of our institution by New York State was the result of more than twenty years of efforts by our founding faculty member, Dr. James Law. His commitment to the profession led to many milestones for our College of Veterinary Medicine; we were the first state college at Cornell University; established the first ambulatory medicine clinic; granted one of the first D.V.M. degrees to a woman; were the first to map the horse genome— the list goes on.

Anniversaries are a time to reflect on what makes us unique. This issue of ‘Scopes does that through showcasing the things that set Cornell apart, such as our 22-year-partnership with the Rosamond Gifford Zoo in Syracuse, New York, that demonstrates our dedication to clinical care and discovery. Our alumni also define us. This issue debuts our new storytelling project, “The Consult,” a multimedia series that highlights conversations between our alumni, their mentors and our students, illustrating the unique and impactful bonds we build here in the college.

We’re also looking ahead to who we will become. As you will read in this issue, we have launched a Center for Veterinary Business & Entrepreneurship. The business of veterinary medicine is transforming; organizations have become more complex, and we face a challenge in keeping service to animals and clients at the core of the profession. This rapid change brings an opportunity: to arm our graduates not only with a foundation of scientific knowledge and excellent clinical skills, but also with training in great communication, organization and practice management.

This training won’t stop with students; many of our alumni, faculty and other partners in the profession are keen to explore ways to bring innovation and business knowledge to their careers and practices. As the Center develops it will provide executive and continuing education courses that will give veterinarians vital tools to adapt adapting to an evolving economy and world.

I have great confidence and excitement for the new goals we have charted. The elements that have been with us since the beginning — our dedication to scientific and clinical excellence, our passion for learning, and the rich personal relationships that are forged from the pursuit of all three, will continue to sustain our path into the future, and the many anniversaries we have ahead of us.

Sincerely,

Lorin D. Warnick, D.V.M., Ph.D. ’94
Austin O. Hooey Dean of Veterinary Medicine