Inspiring Future Leaders in Veterinary Medicine and Research through Our Veterinary Scholars Program

Our Veterinary Scholars Program was established in 1989 to introduce veterinary students to the exciting world of biomedical research. Young scientists and veterinarians play a crucial role in the future discovery and development of new vaccines and pharmaceuticals that benefit both animal and human health. The mission of this program is to provide first and second-year veterinary students with opportunities to engage in meaningful research experiences, promote networking and encourage an exchange of ideas among participants. This year, we supported 129 students from veterinary schools across North America, Germany, France, the Netherlands, Japan and the Philippines. 

The Annual Veterinary Scholars Symposium: A platform for collaboration and exploring new career paths

Every summer, students participate in a 10-12 week research program that culminates in the annual Veterinary Scholars Symposium, where they have an opportunity to present their findings. The latest Veterinary Scholars Symposium, held in St. Paul, Minnesota, in the U.S., brought together more than 600 veterinary students. They shared the research they conducted in academic and government laboratories over the summer. This event enables students to engage with peers and leaders from academia, government and industry, broadening their understanding of potential career paths.  Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health USA Inc. is the lead sponsor of the symposium organized by the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges. 

The Veterinary Scholars Program has grown from just 54 sponsored students at eight schools in 2000 to more than 100 students at 38 schools in 2024. The number of participants at the symposium has also expanded from 43 to over 800 during the same period.

Partnership with USDA: Expanding research opportunities

In 2021, we partnered with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) to provide veterinary students with insightful research experiences to study diseases impacting livestock and public health. Through this public-private partnership, students work side-by-side with scientists at ARS research laboratories like the National Animal Disease Center and the U.S. National Poultry Research Center. 

And it’s not just local. Four students have gained international experience with ARS partners in West Africa. They learned first-hand the crucial roles veterinarians and scientists play in One Health, capacity building, and control of infectious diseases like Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever. This collaboration with USDA has helped enrich the experience of veterinary students and introduced them to the importance of research in protecting the health of animals and humans. 

Here are some reflections from students who’ve participated in the Boehringer Ingelheim Veterinary Scholars Program: