Atlantic Veterinary College welcomes 67 new veterinarians to the profession

The Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC) at the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) welcomed 67 new veterinarians to the profession at the annual White Coat Ceremony.

On May 13, at the UPEI Performing Arts Centre at UPEI, the Class of 2025 received their monogrammed lab coats, presented by their family, friends, and supporters, before an audience of more than 400 invited guests. The coats symbolize their transition from students to veterinary professionals.

“This is such an important degree, and all of you will be welcomed with open arms all across North America and wherever you might find yourselves,” said Dr. Wendy Rodgers, President and Vice-Chancellor of UPEI. “We know that veterinary medicine is a high demand profession; it’s also a high demand process that you’ve gone through, and here you are today. Congratulations!”

“Remember the strong foundation you acquired at the AVC,” said Dr. Dominique Griffon, Dean of AVC. “The doctor of veterinary medicine degree opens many doors, so keep them open to mentor the next generation. Remember, the heart of this profession is empathy, curiosity, and service.”

During the ceremony, special guest Dr. Dan Fredholm, Class of 2009 and veterinarian at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, addressed the graduates. He offered advice to help guide them as they move from a structured program into a world of endless possibilities.

“As you step forward from here, remember that your greatest adventures might lie just beyond the safe and familiar. Embrace opportunities boldly and trust each step, even the unexpected one, is leading you exactly where you need to be.”

Earlier in the day, the Class of 2025 received their doctor of veterinary medicine degrees at the Convocation ceremony for the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Camryn Seymour was presented with the prestigious R.G. Thomson Academic Achievement Award for the highest cumulative grade average for all courses taken during the four-year program.

Also, 10 AVC graduate students were granted their degrees:

• Master of Science—Faculty of Veterinary Medicine: Laura Groves, Sherry Khoddami, Dr. Molly Mills, Crystal Veltman, and Dr. Meagan Walker. 
• Master of Veterinary Science: Dr. Amanda Clark and Dr. Margaret Louie Genis.
• Doctor of Philosophy—Faculty of Veterinary Medicine: Dr. Elizah McFarland, Dr. Dylan Michaud, and Dr. Megan Ross.

Spring Awards Ceremony

The evening before the White Coat Ceremony, the graduates were treated to a celebration of their individual academic achievements at their Spring Awards ceremony. This was the first year the awards were handed out during a ceremony separate from the White Coat event.

Also receiving awards at the ceremony were the following faculty and staff:

• Andrea Jack, veterinary technician, Class of 2002 Technician Appreciation Award
• Dr. Lisanework Ayalew, assistant professor, Zoetis Carl J. Norden Distinguished Teacher Award.
• Dr. Madlyn Lung, small animal surgery intern, Vetoquinol Award in Pain Management
• Dr. Zoe Rutledge, resident, small animal medicine, Class of 2006 Intern/Resident Mentorship Award
• Dr. Patrick Burns, associate professor and anesthesiologist, Boehringer Ingelheim Award of Excellence in Clinical Teaching

For the first time, the Dr. Sheri Ross Memorial Scholarship at AVC was awarded to a graduating student who demonstrated clinical skills excellence and a passion for companion animals during their time as a student. That inaugural award was presented to Dr. Lindsay Gallant. 

Congratulations, Class of 2025!

To see a full list of AVC graduates, visit here.

To see the full list of awards, visit here.