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Story contact: Nicholas Childress, CVMMarCom@missouri.edu
The University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine has named Cliff Miller, DVM, the 2025 Alumnus of the Year, honoring his professional achievements, leadership in organized veterinary medicine and commitment to community service.
A Moberly, Missouri, native, Miller, graduated from the Mizzou College of Veterinary Medicine in 2000 and soon began his career in Gladstone, Missouri, at a large animal practice. In 2003, he returned home to open Green Hills Veterinary Clinic, which has grown from a one-veterinarian operation into a thriving mixed animal practice employing multiple veterinarians and staff.
Alongside building a successful clinic, Miller has been a tireless advocate for veterinary medicine in Missouri. He has served the Missouri Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA) as president, board chair and legislative chair, working alongside state leaders to shape policy and secure vital support for the profession. His efforts helped ensure funding for Mizzou’s Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory and the Veterinary Student Loan Repayment Program. In a nomination letter for Miller, Leah Cohn, DVM, PhD, DAVCIM, a professor and chief of Mizzou’s small animal internal medicine service wrote, “Dr. Miller is an outstanding alumnus of the CVM. His service to veterinary medicine, his community and the state of Missouri clearly demonstrate why he is so deserving of this award.”
Miller’s service reaches far beyond the profession. He has served on executive boards for a regional bank, local schools and economic development organizations. He is also active in Rotary Club, the Knights of Columbus and other civic causes, including chairing a fundraiser for children with developmental disabilities.
His contributions have earned him some of the field’s highest honors, including MVMA Veterinarian of the Year (2020), the MVMA Distinguished Legislative Leadership Award (2018) and the MVMA Distinguished Service Award (2022).
Through leadership, service and dedication, Miller has strengthened both veterinary medicine and his community. His career exemplifies the values of the College of Veterinary Medicine and offers a model for future veterinarians at Mizzou and beyond.