A transformative new gift from Mizzou alumnus Cot Fox will fuel cancer research, expand human-animal health innovation and help reimagine the university’s Veterinary Health Center.

Published 4/30/25
Story contact: Deidra Ashley, CVMMarCom@missouri.edu
Photo by Karen Clifford

Cot Fox, a 1971 graduate of the University of Missouri School of Journalism and longtime supporter of Mizzou, has deepened his legacy with a new commitment to the College of Veterinary Medicine— bringing his total giving to more than $10 million. This latest gift will advance translational oncology research, support the renovation of the Veterinary Health Center and expand the innovative work of the Research Center for Human-Animal Interaction.

“Supporters like Mr. Fox and his late wife, Kay, ensure that we can continue to build momentum and make a meaningful difference — not just today, but for years to come,” said University of Missouri President Mun Choi. “They are tremendous examples of alumni excellence. Their dedication and sustained support move this university forward, and we are deeply grateful for their incredible commitment to Mizzou.”

The Foxes’ connection to the College of Veterinary Medicine began years ago when the family’s beloved dog was treated for cancer at the Veterinary Health Center. As part of that care, veterinarians used Samarium — a cancer-fighting drug developed through groundbreaking research at the college. That same research would later make the drug available for use in human medicine — a development that became deeply personal when Kay Fox’s father received Samarium during his own cancer treatment.

The Foxes made their first major gift to the college in 2013 — a $5 million investment that established the Cot and Kay Fox Family Oncology Research Laboratory, expanded clinical care for animals battling cancer and reflected their shared commitment to advancing both veterinary and human medicine through translational research.

Now, more than a decade later, Cot Fox’s renewed commitment will amplify those efforts and support the college’s bold vision — including the renovation and modernization of the health center, a facility that serves more than 30,000 patients per year and acts as a centerpiece of the college’s hands-on veterinary education, clinical training and research enterprise.

“Cot’s generosity reflects a belief in the future of veterinary medicine and the role it plays in improving lives,” College of Veterinary Medicine Dean Srinand Sreevatsan said. “The Veterinary Health Center represents the heart of our college — where students gain hands-on experience, where we deliver critical care to animal patients and where our researchers drive discoveries that benefit both animal and human health. This gift brings us closer to reimagining the Veterinary Health Center to better serve our students, our patients, our research mission and the people of Missouri.”