Ed Brown Society Launches Veterinary Cohort for Aspiring Equine Vets
Last week, the Ed Brown Society (EBS) launched the Ed Brown Veterinary Cohort (EBVC), a new virtual speaker series focused on equine veterinary medicine. The inaugural session drew 27 students, including Ed Brown Scholars, Fellows, and members of the Student Network. The initiative provides mentorship and career-specific exposure for students pursuing equine veterinary careers.
The EBVC complements the broader Ed Brown Speaker Series, which offers industry insights and professional guidance across the equine field. Through the veterinary cohort, participants gain targeted programming and direct engagement with equine veterinary professionals.
The cohort is led by Kyle Jorel Frett, Ed Brown Fellow and fourth-year veterinary student at Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine, who also serves as SAVMA President. Frett plans to enter equine practice with the goal of becoming an equine surgeon. “Exposing pathways for more students to see themselves in equine veterinary spaces is what motivates me,” Frett said. “This opportunity allows students to gain access, mentorship, and resources to thrive in the field, which benefits the entire profession.”
The first session featured Dr. Tracy A. Turner, DVM, Immediate Past President of the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) and a nationally recognized leader in equine sports medicine, lameness, and surgery. Her talk, “Navigating Equine Practice as a Student,” emphasized the importance of lifelong learning and the unprecedented opportunities technology provides for modern equine practice.
EBS President L. Clark Williams highlighted the cohort’s significance: “This programmatic expansion responds to a clear need among our Scholars and Fellows. Kyle Frett’s leadership is instrumental in helping students navigate this pivotal professional pathway, and Dr. Turner’s presentation launched the series on an incredible note.”
Dr. Turner encouraged attendees to consider careers in equine veterinary medicine, stating, “We need more equine veterinarians, and we want you in the field. Support networks, mentors, and community create the pipeline for future equine vets. All it takes is interest in horses and the chance to grow.”
Founded in 2020, the Ed Brown Society celebrates the equine industry’s rich history while creating opportunities for young talent through mentorship, training, internships, and scholarships. Partner organizations include 1/ST, Churchill Downs, Keeneland, NYRA, The Jockey Club, and NTRA.
