Published on
Updated on
Story contact: Nicholas Childress, CVMMarCom@missouri.edu
Photo courtesy Curt Coffman
The University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine has named Curt Coffman, DVM, the 2026 Alumnus of the Year, honoring his achievements in veterinary dentistry, leadership and commitment to educating and mentoring students and veterinarians.
A 1993 Mizzou graduate, Coffman has built a distinguished career spanning more than 30 years. After retiring from clinical practice, he shifted his focus to education and mentorship. He helped develop Thrive Pet Healthcare’s Dental Growth Program and now travels across the country training veterinarians in veterinary dentistry.
His impact on the field also includes decades of professional leadership. He has served as treasurer of the Foundation for Veterinary Dentistry for more than 15 years and held leadership positions in the American Veterinary Dental College and Veterinary Dental Educators. Coffman now serves as an associate professor of practice (dentistry) at the Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine..
These contributions have earned Coffman numerous honors throughout his career, including recognition as a 2023 dvm360 Veterinary Hero and the Arizona Veterinary Medical Association’s 2017 Arizona Veterinarian of the Year. In 2024, he also received the Foundation for Veterinary Dentistry President’s Award.
Coffman has continued to give back to Mizzou through veterinary education and mentorship. He has volunteered to teach veterinary students and helped strengthen the connection between Mizzou’s Veterinary Health Center and Arizona Veterinary Dental Specialists, expanding training opportunities for future veterinary dentists.
“Dr. Coffman is kind, approachable and an exceptional leader,” wrote Meagan Brophy Rau, DVM, DAVDC, dentistry section head at Mizzou’s Veterinary Health Center. “He creates an environment where both students and colleagues thrive.”
Through leadership, education and dedication, Coffman has helped advance veterinary dentistry while creating opportunities for the veterinarians who will carry the profession forward. His career illustrates the values of the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine and the lasting impact of a Mizzou veterinarian.