Source: University of Maryland Eastern Shore
The University System of Maryland Board of Regents has approved the establishment of a new School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES). This will be the second Veterinary school among the nation’s historically Black colleges and universities and Maryland’s first stand-alone program. The anticipated start for students is fall 2026, addressing the Eastern Shore’s unmet Veterinary needs. UMES aims to serve farmers, the food industry, and pet owners while enhancing diversity in the Veterinary profession.
With a projected 19% growth in the field over the next seven years, the program offers an innovative three-year completion compared to traditional four-year programs. The initiative also seeks to address the scarcity of Black veterinarians, who currently constitute only 3% of the profession. UMES is actively engaged in advocacy, fundraising, and infrastructural planning, with interim founding dean Dr. Kimberly Braxton leading until a permanent dean is appointed next year. The program has garnered support from various stakeholders, emphasizing the importance of representation and inclusion in addressing the national shortage of veterinarians.
Read the full story HERE: https://wwwcp.umes.edu/sans/sans-monthly-digest/umes-responds-to-national-vet-shortage-with-new-school/