The Oath, Fall 2021

October 12, 2021 Mike Charbonneau 1-min. read

Inclusion and diversity — “We can have difficult conversations, like what it’s like being Black and being Black in vet med," says Safari Richardson, class of 2024, second from left. Photo by John Joyner/NC State Veterinary Medicine

What is inclusion and what does it mean for veterinary medicine?

In the latest edition of The Oath, the bi-yearly magazine of the NC State College of Veterinary Medicine, we take a look at inclusion, equity and diversity within the veterinary profession and our own college.

We explore the issue through the experiences of our new class of 2025, the most diverse and inclusive class in CVM history.

Other students, faculty and staff also share insight on how the CVM fostered an environment more inclusive of race, ethnicity and socioeconomic status — and what we need to continue to do to keep the momentum in the future.

We also look at the future of the college in other ways. CVM Dean Paul Lunn, who led the college to increased worldwide prominence, supported groundbreaking translational research and oversaw start-of-the-art medical care, reflects on his time at the college before he steps down in January to become dean of his alma mater.

Lunn also provides a first look at two exciting in-the-works projects: a new $80 million equine hospital and an upgraded dairy barn.

Also in the fall 2021 issue, we honor longtime supporter Randy Ward, celebrate a new distinguished professorship, look at a new study focused on the origins of canine pain sensitivity and provide a behind-the-scenes look at the very first day of CVM classes 40 years ago.

In so many ways, the future is bright at the CVM.

~Jordan Bartel/NC State Veterinary Medicine