In 2024-25, more than 260 scholarships and awards were given.
Published 4/29/25
Story contact: Deidra Ashley, CVMMarCom@missouri.edu
Photos by Karen Clifford
Each year, the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine celebrates its scholarship and award recipients. Here are this year’s honorees:
A. Holland Groth Student Research Award
This award is in recognition of demonstrated potential, proficiency, interests, performance and contributions to veterinary medical research as a professional student in Veterinary Medicine.
Recipient: Davina D’Angelo
Abby Magnolia Scholarship
This scholarship is established in honor of Abby Magnolia, a 12-year-old dog who was rescued along with 102 others from a hoarding situation. She lived a wonderful life with her adopter until her passing. This award recognizes an entering second-, third- or fourth-year student who shows a demonstrated commitment to rescue groups, shelters and community outreach.
Recipient: Kira Chapman
Adele M. Buescher Scholarship
This award honors the top second-, third- and fourth-year students who exemplify integrity, compassion, courage and fairness, demonstrating strong character and a commitment to doing what is right, even in challenging situations. The recipients are nominated by their classmates, with final selection by faculty.
Recipients: Marika Austad, Marjory Coates, Heather Gaudette and Nick Gentry
Adrian J. Durant Award
This award recognizes a fourth-year student for outstanding proficiency in poultry disease knowledge.
Recipient: Hilsden Moseley
Alex Bermudez Memorial Scholarship
This award is presented to a third- or fourth-year veterinary student with a demonstrated interest in avian medicine or poultry production.
Recipient: Amanda Kujiraoka
American Animal Hospital Association Award (AAHA)
This award recognizes a fourth-year student who has demonstrated outstanding clinical proficiency in veterinary primary care.
Recipient: Victoria Thompson
American Association of Veterinary Dermatology (AAVD)
This award recognizes a fourth-year student who excels in clinical dermatology.
Recipient: Emily Wawrzyniak
American College of Veterinary Pathologists (ACVP)
This award acknowledges outstanding graduating students who have demonstrated exceptional proficiency and interest in anatomic and/or clinical pathology.
Recipients: Madison Knight and Ali McAllister-Day
American College of Veterinary Radiology and Ultrasound Award (ACVR)
This award is presented to a senior veterinary student who excels in clinical radiology.
Recipient: Cassandra Fletcher
American College of Veterinary Surgeons Student Award
This award is presented to two graduating seniors who demonstrate academic and clinical proficiency in the areas of small animal surgery and large animal surgery.
Recipient: Anna Perreand (large animal) and Mikaila Smith (small animal)
American Kennel Club
This award is presented to students who have a background in purebred dogs and AKC events or research.
Recipients: Claire Merriman and Janae Wiley
Anatomy Award
This award recognizes a first-year student who has demonstrated outstanding proficiency, interest and ability in anatomy during the first year.
Recipient: Lily Kent
Anesthesiology Award
This award recognizes an outstanding student in veterinary anesthesiology.
Recipient: Ali McAllister-Day
Ann Miller-Roth, DVM, ’88 and Jerome Roth, DVM, ’74 Scholarship
This award is presented to third- or fourth-year students exhibiting a life’s passion for the field of veterinary medicine and public service.
Recipients: Gabby Balaa, Alyssa Hale, Anderson Harris, Morgan Morris, Madison Porter, Caroline Shaw, Nicole Teutschmann, Kaelamae Topham and Janae Wiley
Aronson Veterinary Radiology Award
This award recognizes a third- or fourth-year veterinary student who has demonstrated outstanding proficiency in veterinary radiology.
Recipient: Breslin Jones
Banfield Endowed Scholarship in Honor of Dr. James E. Nave
This award is presented to a third- or fourth-year veterinary student who ranks in the top half of their class and has demonstrated leadership in organized veterinary medicine and a business interest or background.
Recipient: Kayla Forlenza
Beth Furbeck Myers Memorial Scholarship
This is a new award that recognizes a veterinary student who exemplifies outstanding character, integrity, kindness and inclusivity to all.
Recipient: Maggy Bowling
Breanna Marie Killian Scholarship
This award, in memory of Breanna Marie Killian, Class of 2024, who passed away during her second year, honors a second-, third- or fourth-year student who exemplifies her same qualities: a thirst for knowledge, competitive drive, courageous and adventurous spirit, kindness and compassion for zoo animals and exotic wildlife.
Recipient: Sophie Endacott
Bridget, Bailey, Josie, Connor and Hope Scholarship
This award recognizes a first-, second- or third-year student who has demonstrated through their activities, an understanding and commitment to strengthening the bond between animals and people.
Recipient: Ragavi Raman
Cale Estabrook Scholarship
This award was created in memory of Cale Estabrook, a third-year veterinary student from the Class of 2006 who lost his life in a car accident. This award is presented to a third-year student who has demonstrated a strong interest and proficiency in food animal medicine.
Recipient: Emily Ray
Cardiology Award
This award is presented to an outstanding student in cardiology.
Recipient: Raleigh Toussaint
Carl Frederick Fischer and George Franklin Fischer Veterinary Medicine Scholarship
This award recognizes a third- or fourth-year student who excels in food animal medicine, demonstrating exceptional clinical skills, dedication to animal welfare and a strong commitment to advancing the veterinary profession.
Recipient: Nick Gentry
Clinical Area Instructional Award
This award was created by the veterinary student body to recognize faculty instruction of those clinical areas in which University of Missouri veterinary students’ mean scores meet or exceed the national average on the North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE).
Recipient: Cardiology
Columbia Kennel Club
This award is presented to a veterinary student who has shown a strong interest in canine medicine.
Recipient: Rebecca Kiesel
Cora and Ben Geisert Heritage Scholarship
This award is given to a fourth-year student who is preparing to enter small animal medicine.
Recipient: Zuzanna Szmacinski
Dana Gillig Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship recognizes a fourth-year veterinary student who is a Missouri resident and plans to practice food animal or mixed animal medicine in Missouri after graduation.
Recipient: Morgan Morris
Don Blenden Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship, established in memory of Dr. Don Blenden, is awarded to a third- or fourth-year student aspiring to pursue a career in veterinary public health.
Recipient: Tina Rossi
Dr. Barry S. Kipperman Scholarship in Veterinary Medicine
This award recognizes a first-, second- or third-year student in the top half of their class who demonstrates exceptional promise in the veterinary profession through enthusiasm and a strong work ethic.
Recipient: Olivia Jacobson
Dr. David Lawrence Frazier and Dr. Elizabeth Frazier Memorial Scholarship
This award recognizes a first-, second- or third-year student who exemplifies outstanding professional potential and academic excellence. Applicants were invited to select a principle from the Veterinarian’s Oath and describe how it has shaped their journey through veterinary school.
Recipient: Hailey Mann
Dr. Edgar Ebert Memorial LAM and SAM Awards
This scholarship, established by Mrs. Edgar Ebert in honor of her husband, awards two fourth-year students — one in large animal medicine and surgery, and one in small animal medicine and surgery — who have demonstrated academic excellence, good citizenship and leadership.
Recipient: Taylor Hays (SAM) and Alex Mandi (LAM)
Dr. Eugene J. Donnelly Scholarship
Established by Laura Welch in honor of the Welch family’s beloved Russian Blue cat and their veterinarian, Dr. Eugene Donnelly, this scholarship is awarded to a student who graduated from a high school in Clay or Platte County, Missouri, who recognizes the vital role pets play in fostering emotional connections.
Recipient: Josie Donaldson
Dr. James Creed Scholarship
This award is provided to a second-, third- or fourth-year student who has demonstrated excellence in the Veterinary Research Scholars Program.
Recipient: Jenelle Catalina
Dr. Jeffrey Shikles, Class of 1988, Memorial Scholarship
In memory of Dr. Jeffrey Shikles (Class of 1988), this award recognizes a third- or fourth-year student with a strong interest in both equine and small animal care, excellent rapport with animals and owners and a genuine compassion for all living things.
Recipient: Kelly Cook
Dr. Joe McGinity Food Animal Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a second-year student who has an interest in food animal medicine and surgery, production veterinary medicine and/or agricultural veterinary medicine.
Recipient: Millie Mayo
Dr. Ken White Veterinary Medicine Scholarship
This award recognizes a second-year student in the top half of their class who shows a strong commitment to mixed-animal practice in rural Missouri and active leadership in student organizations.
Recipient: Tanner Wallace
Dr. Kurt Miller Scholarship
In honor of Dr. Kurt Miller (Class of 1995), this award recognizes a third- or fourth-year student focused on companion animal medicine who shows strong clinical skills, effective client education and a deep understanding of the human-animal bond.
Recipient: Sarah Nguyentran
Dr. Renee Richmond Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a third- or fourth-year veterinary student with a strong interest in pathology who has demonstrated excellence in pathology during their clinical training.
Recipient: Madison Knight
Dr. Tracei Holder Scholarship for Veterinary Medicine
Honoring Dr. Holder’s commitment to excellence, this award recognizes a third- or fourth-year student who demonstrates outstanding care to their patients and clients.
Recipient: Kayla Forlenza
Dr. and Mrs. Leon Russell Scholarship
This scholarship recognizes a third- or fourth-year student who has demonstrated leadership in organized veterinary medicine while enrolled in the CVM.
Recipient: Kayla Forlenza
Dr. and Mrs. Leslie C. Murphy Scholarship
This award recognizes a fourth-year veterinary student who has attained the highest cumulative GPA over their four years of study.
Recipient: Mark Wolfer
Earl S.C. Stuart Memorial Scholarship
This award recognizes a third- or fourth-year veterinary student who has shown strong potential for the future, exemplifying the personal resilience, compassion and professional excellence demonstrated by Earl S.C. Stuart throughout his life.
Recipient: Scott Miller
E.R. Price Public Health Scholarship
This award is presented to a CVM graduate student or resident who demonstrates motivation and dedication in the area of public health.
Recipient: Dr. Victor Agbajelola
Eagle Animal Hospital Scholarship
This scholarship is presented to a first-year student whose application to the Veterinary Research Scholars Program demonstrates excellent research potential.
Recipient: Madison Manzo
Earl S.C. Stuart Endowed Memorial Scholarship
This award recognizes a third- or fourth-year veterinary student who shows strong potential for the future, exemplifying the personal resilience, compassion and professional excellence demonstrated by Earl S.C. Stuart throughout his life.
Recipient: Scott Miller
Emi Meyer Imagination Award
This award honors Emi Meyer, a dedicated staff member in the College of Veterinary Medicine. It recognizes a student who demonstrates innovative problem-solving using their imagination to think beyond traditional approaches and develop creative solutions to challenges.
Recipient: Scott Miller
Emmett McCune Avian Medicine Award
This award recognizes a third- or fourth-year student, or a graduate student, who has shown outstanding interest and understanding of poultry production, medicine and disease prevention.
Recipient: Yoomin Jo
English Practitioner Award
This award is presented to a fourth-year veterinary student who has demonstrated outstanding success in both large animal medicine and surgery and small animal medicine and surgery.
Recipient: Cade Rogers
FelineVMA Outstanding Senior Award
This award is presented to a graduating senior recognized as a leader in the study of feline health.
Recipient: Julia Warfield
Frank E. and Ena Hickerson Rhoads Scholarships
This award recognizes second-, third-, and/or fourth-year students who exhibit excellent moral character and rank in the upper 10% of their class. Judging is based on personal statements that reflect the values of dignity and adherence to veterinary medical ethics.
Recipients: Gabby Balaa, Jacie Buescher, Margaret Caldwell, Angelina Johnson, Rachel Keilholz, Rebecca Kiesel, Jenna Ogletree and Tanner Wallace
Frank Wells Scholarship
Established by the estate of Nellie F. Wells in memory of her brother, this scholarship recognizes an entering fourth-year veterinary student who demonstrates outstanding community service and leadership abilities.
Recipient: Marika Austad
Gerald Johnson Memorial Scholarship
This award is presented to a third-year student recognized by their class as one who exemplifies Dr. Johnson’s qualities of leadership, trustworthiness, compassion, dependability and integrity.
Recipient: Scott Miller
Gilbreath-McLorn Scholarships
These scholarships are presented to veterinary students who demonstrate the ability to excel in the field, including clinical competence, leadership, animal welfare dedication, effective communication and ethical decision-making. Recipients were selected by their respective classes.
Recipients: Taylor Abmeyer, Marika Austad, Marshall Browne, Margaret Caldwell, Hannah Chastain, Kayla Forlenza, Brianna Hoey, Angelina Johnson, Hailey Mann, Scott Miller, Sarah Nguyentran, Erin Powers, Leyton Rebori, Madison Ridder, Natalie Scott, Lillie Snider and Zuzanna Szmacinski
Glenn and Mary James Scholarship
This award was established to provide a four-year full cost of attendance scholarship to a current first-year student pursuing a career in large and farm animal medicine.
Recipient: Mason Knepper
Golden Aesculapius Teaching Awards
These awards honor exceptional teachers who provide both classroom instruction to first- and second-year students and clinical instruction to third- and fourth-year students, with recipients being selected by each respective class.
Recipients: Dr. Lane Clarke (VM1), Dr. Tamara Hancock (VM2), Dr. Luis Rivero (VM3) and Dr. Jerry Toporis (VM4)
H. Richard Adams Scholarship
This award recognizes a fourth-year student who demonstrates a strong understanding of the human-animal bond and its mutual health benefits such as animal-assisted therapy for patients and the healing effects of human presence on animals.
Recipient: Tiernan Smith
Harlan E. Jensen Ophthalmology Award
This award, given in honor of Dr. and Mrs. H.E. Jensen is presented to a graduating student who has demonstrated outstanding proficiency and interest in ophthalmology.
Recipient: Victoria Smetana
Harrison-Kaplan Online Teaching Award
This award is presented to two online instructors who have demonstrated excellence in online student engagement, course development and course management and delivery.
Recipients: Gretchen Carlisle, PhD, MEd, RN, CHES and Kathryn Malcolm, RVT, MS
Histology and Embryology Award
This award recognizes a first-year student who has excelled in histology and embryology.
Recipient: Mary Capps
Intern Teaching Award
This award, voted by the fourth-year class recognizes an intern who has made the greatest impact on students’ clinical experience through teaching and extra support.
Recipient: Dr. Samuel McClanahan
Ives Cardiff Scholarship
In memory of Cardiff, an 18-year-old Welsh terrier cared for by Dr. John Williams (Class of 1972), this award recognizes a student entering companion animal practice who shows compassion and a strong aptitude for the human-animal bond.
Recipient: Cassandra Fletcher
J. E. Salsbury Scholarships
This award recognizes fourth-year students who show academic excellence, initiative, perseverance and leadership in challenging situations.
Recipients: Laura Freudenberger-McKenna, Rebecca Kiesel, Madison Porter, Emily Wawrzyniak and Kayle Welch
J.R. Randolph Practitioner Award
This award recognizes a fourth-year veterinary student who has excelled in both small and large animal medicine and surgery.
Recipient: Claire McDonald
James L. Tomlinson Small Animal Surgery Award
This award recognizes a resident in small animal surgery who demonstrates expertise in technical skill, patient care, client communication and intent to advance the profession.
Recipients: Dr. Brooke Lee and Dr. Alexander Rahn
James Robert Long Memorial Scholarship
This award is presented to a second- or third-year student(s) who is a resident of Clay County, Clinton County, Northwest Missouri or the state of Missouri and expresses an interest in returning to their home county to practice equine, mixed or companion animal medicine.
Recipients: Maggy Bowling and Erin McPike
Jeff W. Tyler Food Animal Medicine and Public Health Award
This award recognizes a veterinary student enrolled in a dual-degree program who has demonstrated aptitude and interest in food animal medicine and public health.
Recipient: Corynn Lewis
Jenny Phillips Seggerman Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a third- or fourth-year veterinary student from specific counties in St. Louis or St. Charles, Missouri, who plans to return to the area to practice small animal medicine after graduation.
Recipient: Melanie Walukonis
John W. Pierce Scholarship in Food Animal and Equine Veterinary Medicine
This award is presented to a fourth-year student who demonstrates an interest in food animal or equine veterinary medicine and is active in the Swine, Bovine and/or Equine clubs.
Recipient: Virginia Smith
Joseph Worthington Crane Memorial Scholarship
This scholarship is presented to a second-, third- or fourth-year veterinary student who has graduated from a high school in Boone County, Missouri, has high moral character and is in good academic standing.
Recipient: Emily Wawrzyniak
Joy and George Shelton Scholarship
This award recognizes a third-year veterinary student who demonstrates leadership skills and an involvement in organized veterinary medicine.
Recipient: Scott Miller
Judy Roberts Memorial Endowment in Veterinary Medicine
This award recognizes a fourth-year student who demonstrates interest and aptitude in oncology, benefiting both animals and humans.
Recipient: Zuzanna Szmacinski
Kansas City Veterinary Medical Association (KCVMA)
This award is presented to a fourth-year student who plans to practice veterinary medicine in Kansas City, Missouri/Kansas, or surrounding areas.
Recipient: Nick Gentry
Karen L. Campbell Scholarship
This scholarship recognizes a fourth-year veterinary student in the top 25% of their class who has demonstrated an interest in veterinary dermatology or companion animal medicine.
Recipient: Rebecca Kiesel
Kennedy Entrepreneurial Scholarship
This award is presented to a CVM student who expresses an interest in entrepreneurship and clinic ownership.
Recipient: Scott Miller
Kenneth and Barbara Levy Residency Award
This award recognizes outstanding residents in oncology, ophthalmology and/or cardiology disciplines related to small animal medicine and surgery.
Recipients: Dr. Allison Barbour (oncology), Dr. Elizabeth Martin (cardiology) and Dr. Aaron Sieve (ophthalmology)
Kenneth H. Niemeyer Award in Veterinary Medicine
Recipients: Kayla Forlenza (VM3) and Angelina Johnson (VM2)
Kevin Wayne King Memorial Scholarship
This award is presented to a student in the College of Veterinary Medicine who demonstrates dedication to becoming a compassionate and competent veterinarian.
Recipient: Scott Miller
L.N. Atkinson, DVM, Memorial Scholarship
This award honors Dr. Atkinson and recognizes an intern who has demonstrated interest and proficiency in canine medicine and surgery.
Recipient: Christina Anaya
Lloyd Selby Award
This award, established in honor of the late Dr. Lloyd Selby, is presented to a student who has outstanding interest and proficiency in public health and epidemiology.
Recipient: Daniel Cook
Loren D. Kintner Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory Award
This award recognizes a third- or fourth-year student for their proficiency, interest, contributions and performance in veterinary diagnostic laboratory medicine.
Recipient: Yoomin Jo
Louise Nichols Veterinary Medicine Scholarship
This scholarship recognizes a third- or fourth-year student who exemplifies compassion for the human-animal bond and demonstrates the people skills essential to communicating effectively and showing concern and compassion for clients.
Recipient: Nick Gentry
Lucy B. Davis Scholarships in Small Animal Medicine (SAM) and Surgery (SAS)
Two awards, one for small animal medicine and one for small animal surgery, are presented to third- or fourth-year students who exhibit exceptional interest, academic excellence, proficiency and outstanding client relations in both areas.
Recipients: Cassandra Fletcher (SAS) and Zuzanna Szmacinski (SAM)
Missouri Farm Bureau Foundation Scholarships
This award, based on leadership roles and career goals, recognizes two fourth-year students who plan to practice large or mixed animal medicine in Missouri.
Recipients: Brody Leimkuehler and Morgan Morris
MVMA Auxiliary Scholarship
The Missouri Veterinary Medical Auxiliary sponsors this award recognizing a second-year student who exemplifies academic excellence, leadership in veterinary school activities and community involvement and promotes professionalism within the veterinary field.
Recipient: Angelina Johnson
Marshel O. and Helen W. Gordon Scholarship
This scholarship is presented to a student who graduated from a high school in Boone County or Callaway County, Missouri, and is in good academic standing.
Recipient: Riley Neil
Mary T. Wernert, DVM, ’86 Memorial Scholarship
Established in memory of Dr. Mary T. Wernert, an active member of the Greater St. Louis Veterinary Medical Association, this award recognizes a graduating senior who best exemplifies the high standard of patient care characteristic of Dr. Wernert’s veterinary career. The recipient is selected by the VM4 class.
Recipient: Sarah Nguyentran
Michael Joyner, DVM, Scholarship
Established by Dr. Michael Joyner (Class of 1984), this scholarship recognizes a student pursuing a career in exotic animal medicine.
Recipient: Sophie Endacott
Microbiology Award
This award is presented to a second-year student for outstanding proficiency and interest in veterinary microbiology.
Recipient: Leyton Rebori
Miss America Scholarship in Veterinary Medicine
Endowed by the Miss America Pageant in honor of Debbye Turner Bell (Miss America 1990 and CVM graduate), this scholarship is awarded to a current VM2 female student who demonstrates leadership, community service promoting the veterinary profession, and academic excellence. The recipient is selected by classmates.
Recipient: Angelina Johnson
Molecular and Cellular Biology Award
This award recognizes an outstanding VM1 student for performance in molecular and cell biology.
Recipient: Cari Naanep
Nancy Langworthy and Harry Feirman Scholarship
This award covers the cost of the NAVLE exam and is sponsored by the Smith Family Scholarship in Veterinary Medicine and the Marie Burke Scholarship. They are presented to third-year student ambassadors who took their time over the last three years to help with various CVM events.
Recipients: Marika Austad, Ellie Bruere, Maggie Clark, Anna Divin, Racheal Eisaman, Erin Julian, Maryeah Martin, Elizabeth Maune, Tara McDaid, Grace McIntosh, Sadie Murphy, Emily Patterson, Anna Reinkemeyer, Tina Rossi, Natalie Scott, Kimberly Sprungl and Jessica Warwick
NAVLE Scholarship
This award provides scholarships to one or more students in the College of Veterinary Medicine who are Missouri residents.
Recipients: Ellie Bruere and Maggie Cla
Needles Brooker Scholarship
This award is presented to a student who embodies the compassion of veterinarians and demonstrates a deep understanding of the attachments and relationships that form the human-animal bond.
Recipient: Marjory Coates
Nelson Stone Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a third- or fourth-year student from southeast Missouri who aspires to become a small animal veterinarian and demonstrates dedication and potential in the veterinary field.
Recipient: Kassie Fluchel
Nestle Purina Award for Excellence in Pet Care and Nutrition
This award is presented to a veterinary student who has demonstrated excellence or interest in companion animal nutrition.
Recipient: Matt McHenry
Nestle Purina Excellence in Nutritional Management of Surgical Patients
This award recognizes a fourth-year veterinary student who has exhibited excellence in the nutritional management of patients during post-surgical recovery.
Recipient: Claudia Vasquez
Orthopedic Foundation for Animals Award
This award is presented to the highest-achieving second-year student(s) who rank in the upper 15% of their class and have demonstrated excellence in the IP5 Genomics course.
Recipients: Rachel Keilholz and Jordyn Young
Paul and Earlene Nicoletti Scholarship
This award recognizes a third- or fourth-year student with an interest in food animal medicine and surgery.
Recipient: Marjory Coates
Phi Zeta
This honor is awarded to fourth-year students in the top 25% of their class. Recipients are recognized for their academic excellence, strong moral character, professional conduct and commitment to high ideals.
Recipients: Gabby Balaa, Alaina Baumgart, Marshall Browne, Jacie Buescher, Morgan Burke, Hope Christy, Marjory Coates, Davina D’Angelo, Anna Divin, Skylar Drum, Samantha Falloni, Cassandra Fletcher, Nick Gentry, Jessica Goldner, Emily Hoffman, Alison Holz, Lily Jensen, Yoomin Jo, Rebecca Kiesel, Taylor Kolbe, Stephanie Lopez, Alex Mandi, Hailey Mann, Ali McAllister-Day, Claire McDonald, Jenna Newell, Jenna Ogletree, Kylie Phillips, Madison Porter, Caroline Shaw, Virginia Smith, Baylee Stapleton, Zuzanna Szmacinski, Nicole Teutschmann, Alexis Thomas, Raleigh Toussaint, Nick Tran and Mark Wolfer
Philip J. Shanker, DVM, Scholarship in Feline Medicine
This award recognizes a fourth-year student who exhibits a superior aptitude and interest in feline medicine and surgery.
Recipient: Julia Warfield
Physiology Award
This award recognizes a first-year student who has excelled in physiology.
Recipient: Mary Capps
MU Pre-Veterinary Medicine Scholarship
This award is presented to two first-year students in the Pre-Veterinary Medicine Club who are active in club activities and leadership.
Recipients: Leslie Cytron and Olivia Vovk
Redhage Awards
These awards are presented to residents entering their final year of residency who have demonstrated an interest and proficiency in canine medicine/surgery and strong client/patient/veterinarian relationship skills and characteristics.
Recipients: Dr. Allison Barbour, Dr. Katelin Dark, Dr. Elizabeth Martin, Dr. Allison Naclerio and Dr. Vivian Yang
Resident Teaching Award
This award, voted by the fourth-year class recognizes a resident who has made the greatest impact on students’ clinical experience through teaching and extra support.
Recipient: Dr. Jessica Taylor
Richard T. Riegel Scholarship
This award recognizes a student who has faced significant personal challenges and has displayed integrity and perseverance in overcoming adversity. This award celebrates the student’s ability to maintain professionalism and dedication to the veterinary field despite the obstacles they have encountered.
Recipient: Kira Chapman
Robert E. “Bud” Hertzog Scholarship
Recipient: Gabby Balaa
Robert J. and E. Marlese Gourley Scholarships
This award recognizes students in the College of Veterinary Medicine who have excelled academically and shown outstanding leadership in extracurricular activities, both on their campus and within their community.
Recipients: Taylor Abmeyer, Jenelle Catalina, Sophie Endacott, Laura Freudenberger-McKenna, Jennifer Pederson and Emily Wawrzyniak
Robert M. Tugel Scholarship
Established by Robert M. Tugel, DVM, this award honors Dr. Kenneth Niemeyer’s dedication to mentoring future veterinarians. It is given to second- or third-year students with a strong interest in large animal or equine medicine.
Recipients: Gabby Balaa, Anderson Harris, Morgan Morris, Madison Porter and Randi Westhoff
Robert Miller Food Animal Proficiency Award
This award recognizes the achievement of two fourth-year veterinary student(s) most proficient in food animal medicine, surgery, reproduction and production medicine.
Recipients: Trevor Gyhra and Chloe Washburn
Roger Dustin Shaw Memorial Scholarship
This award is presented to students from Howell, Oregon, Ripley or Shannon County, Missouri who are in good academic standing.
Recipients: Bryce Friga, Abby Roach and James Snodgrass
Roseboom SAVMA Scholarship
This award is presented to a second- and third-year student for outstanding leadership roles in the College of Veterinary Medicine and community service.
Recipients: Jenelle Catalina (VM2) and Scott Miller (VM3)
Ruth Elizabeth Johnston Memorial Veterinary Medicine Scholarship
This award is presented to a third-year student who has demonstrated proficiency in the clinical sciences.
Recipient: Natalie Scott
SAVMA Teaching Award for Basic Sciences
The SAVMA Teaching Award for Basic Sciences is selected by first- and second-year SAVMA members and honors a faculty member who has made significant contributions to students’ education and advancement through the veterinary curriculum.
Recipient: Dr. Lane Clarke
SAVMA Teaching Award for Clinical Sciences
Third- and fourth-year SAVMA members select one faculty member who has shown outstanding dedication to student learning, clinical growth and professional development.
Recipient: Dr. Jerry Toporis
Sherry Lynn Volk Memorial Scholarship
This award recognizes a second- or third-year student in good academic standing who has demonstrated community service and outreach.
Recipients: Marika Austad and Savannah Gay
Southeast Jefferson Saddle Club Endowed Scholarship
This scholarship recognizes third- or fourth-year students who have a strong interest and demonstrated aptitude for equine medicine and/or surgery.
Recipients: Kaylynn Dunn, Claire McDonald and Anna Perreand
Stanley Smith Memorial Scholarship
This award provides scholarships for veterinary medical students in the College of Veterinary Medicine.
Recipient: Grace Barlage
Steven E. and Laurie E. Holmstrom Dental Practice Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a fourth-year veterinary student with a strong interest in the dental practice.
Recipient: Morgan Burke
Swine Proficiency Award
This award is presented to an outstanding fourth-year student for proficiency in swine medicine.
Recipient: Ellen Gibbs
Technician Award
This award, voted on by the fourth-year class, recognizes an outstanding VHC technician whom the class feels has made a significant impact on their clinical experience.
Recipient: Rachel Jeffries
Thelma P. Zalk Scholarship
This award honors Thelma Zalk’s dedication to combating pet overpopulation in rural Missouri and supporting the teaching hospital’s spay/neuter program. Recipients are chosen based on student statements addressing this issue, with one award recognizing excellence in shelter medicine.
Recipients: Marika Austad, Caroline Bruer, Ben Casto, Sophie Endacott, Narissa Lamont, Brody Leimkuehler, Matt McHenry, Emily Patterson and Evelyn VanDenBerg
Theriogenology Award
This award is presented to an outstanding student who demonstrated excellence in the Theriogenology course.
Recipient: Lily Jensen
Third-year Phi Zeta Inductees
This honor is bestowed on third-year students who rank in the top 10% of their class. These students must have an acceptable personality, be of good moral character, and possess high ideals regarding professional service conduct.
Recipient: Alaina Baumgart, Jacie Buescher, Anna Divin, Jessica Goldner, Yoomin Jo, Hailey Mann, Jenna Newell, Kylie Phillips, Caroline Shaw, Baylee Stapleton and Nick Tran
Three Rivers Kennel Club Scholarships
This award recognizes CVM students from specific St. Louis counties who aim to pursue a career in small animal practice or research.
Recipients: Ellie Bruere, Allison Huffman, Karen Rigdon and Erin Wiley
Tri-State Kennel Club Scholarship
This award recognizes a veterinary medicine student who demonstrates a profound passion for companion animals and is pursuing a career in small animal medicine.
Recipient: Scott Miller
University of Missouri Excellence in Small Animal Surgery Award
This award is given to a student, foreign or domestic, who is finishing their clinical studies, who has demonstrated exceptional interest, advanced knowledge and clinical proficiency in the areas of general, oncologic, neurologic and orthopedic surgery, and who wishes to pursue advanced training in small animal surgery through the attempted achievement of an internship and residency. The award is selected by the Small Animal Surgery Service and represents the highest accolade the Small Animal Surgery Service offers clinical students each year.
Recipient: Heesoo Shin
VCS Bob Rosenthal Award
This award recognizes a fourth-year student or visiting scholar for proficiency in the care of veterinary oncology patients and aptitude in clinical oncology.
Recipient: Miryiam Benyameen
VECCS Proficiency in Emergency and Critical Care Award
This award, sponsored by the Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society, is presented to a fourth-year student who has demonstrated extraordinary commitment and exceptional proficiency in caring for emergency and critical care patients.
Recipient: Nick Gentry
Veterinary Medicine Class of 1981 Scholarship
This award recognizes a current third-year veterinary medicine student who has demonstrated class leadership, a strong work ethic, integrity and a willingness to help others.
Recipient: Marika Austad
Veterinary Parasitology Award
This award recognizes a second-year veterinary student who has demonstrated outstanding proficiency and excellence in veterinary parasitology.
Recipient: Parker Triplett
Virginia L. Busch Scholarship
This award is presented to second-year veterinary medicine students who demonstrate outstanding leadership, character and integrity. Nominees are selected by the second-year class, with the final selection made by the second-year faculty.
Recipients: Angelina Johnson and Millie Mayo
Wesley E. Darnell Endowed Scholarship
This scholarship is awarded to a third- or fourth-year veterinary student who plans to pursue a career in large animal medicine and has excelled in large animal medicine during the food animal rotation. Preference is given to students from northwest Missouri, with final selection made by the food animal faculty.
Recipient: Kaelyn Johnson
Wildlife and Exotic Medicine Award
This award recognizes third- or fourth-year students who have demonstrated outstanding proficiency and interest in wildlife or exotic animal medicine.
Recipients: Sarah Nguyentran, Dory Sanders, Raleigh Toussaint and Julia Warfield
William H. Fales Clinical Veterinary Microbiology Award
This award is presented to an undergraduate, graduate, professional veterinary medicine student or postdoctoral student who demonstrates an exceptional interest and proficiency in diagnostic veterinary microbiology.
Recipient: Marcus Gibson
William Russell Goodin Scholarships
This award offers ongoing annual scholarships to first-, second- and third-year students from the Southeast quadrant of Missouri.
Recipients: Lindsey Allen-Word, Dakota Arnold, Aaron Brown, Jacie Buescher, Makayla Clark, Lacey Drury, Brent Glenzy, Katelyn Glueck, Joseph Pierce and Michaela Witt
Zelda Dane Scholarship
This award is presented to a veterinary student who demonstrates strong character and exceptional potential in veterinary medicine. Each class nominates one student, with final selection made by faculty.
Recipient: Scott Miller
Zoo Club Scholarship
This award recognizes a third- or fourth-year student who is an active member of the Student Chapter of the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians and is pursuing (or has completed) a preceptorship/externship in zoo, wildlife or exotic medicine.
Recipient: Stephanie Lopez