VMS News

Bess Pierce

May 8, 2026

Bess Pierce inducted as a fellow of the Veterinary Medicine Academy

Pierce’s work in rehabilitation, teaching and team-based care is earning national recognition and shaping how the next generation of veterinarians thinks about outcomes.

Kevin and Joni Lunceford in front of the PET-CT scanner.

April 20, 2026

Finding answers through imaging

At Mizzou’s Veterinary Health Center, one of the most comprehensive veterinary imaging suites in Missouri and the region, radiology team members Joni and Kevin Lunceford use advanced technology to uncover what others can’t. Their work, supported by collaboration across campus, helps care teams make faster, more accurate decisions when they matter most.

Caroline the dog

Feb. 16, 2026

Minimally invasive surgery, maximum impact

Caroline, an 11-year-old dog from the Kansas City area, was referred to the Mizzou College of Veterinary Medicine after a mass was discovered in her chest. Her treatment illustrates the role of advanced surgical care paired with compassionate support for families.

Dan Cook at Foremost Dairy farm

Feb. 5, 2026

Where food safety meets veterinary medicine

After nearly a decade in the food safety and regulatory field, Dan Cook returned to the classroom to pursue veterinary medicine, a decision shaped by experience, responsibility and a sense that his work was not yet finished. Drawing on his USDA background, the soon-to-be graduate is preparing for a career that blends animal health, public service and food system oversight.

Dodam, Keegan and Evans headshots

Feb. 2, 2026

Mizzou CVM faculty earn top honors at 2026 MVMA Convention

Mizzou College of Veterinary Medicine faculty earned multiple honors at the 2026 Missouri Veterinary Medical Association Conference, including John Dodam being named Veterinarian of the Year.

Jess Taylor Brune holding a cat.

Jan. 28, 2026

Rooted at Mizzou, rising in medicine

Long before she completes her residency program, Jess Taylor Brune earned the confidence of the mentors around her. From discovering anesthesiology almost by accident to being invited into a faculty role years ahead of schedule, her journey reflects how Mizzou identifies talent early and invests in leaders who elevate others.

Noella on her farm in Moberly, Missouri.

Dec. 10, 2025

Noella’s miracle: Reindeer receives first-class care at Mizzou

When Noella’s leg became infected last winter, the reindeer from Moberly got a Christmas miracle at Mizzou’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

a horse peeking out of the stall

Nov. 20, 2025

Understanding the recent equine herpesvirus (EHV) outbreak

Mizzou equine internal medicine clinicians share what horse owners need to know about the recent EHV outbreaks in the United States.

Dr. Laura Nafe with a dog

Nov. 5, 2025

Solving the puzzle of patient care

A passion for problem-solving and mentoring brought alumna Laura Nafe back to Mizzou, where she’s now helping shape the future of veterinary medicine.

Mary McFillen and Danielle Hurd

Oct. 15, 2025

Professional growth, powered by Mizzou

Veterinary Health Center technicians are turning passion into progress — offering learning opportunities that help Missouri colleagues meet requirements while fueling professional growth.