Arkansas State Is About to Make Veterinary History

After years of planning, dreaming, fundraising, designing, hiring, and building, Arkansas State University is finally ready to welcome the very first class to its brand-new College of Veterinary Medicine.

Beginning in August, the inaugural class of future veterinarians will officially begin their journey in Jonesboro, marking a milestone not only for Arkansas State but for veterinary medicine across the Mid-South. For a region facing an ongoing shortage of veterinarians, especially in rural communities, the opening couldn't come at a better time.

"This is a transformational day for Arkansas State University," said interim Chancellor Calvin White Jr. "After years of planning and preparation, we are welcoming students into a program that will strengthen our university, expand opportunities for Arkansans, and help address a critical workforce need across our state and region."

The celebration officially kicks off with a grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony on August 11, just one day before students begin classes. University leaders, faculty, community members, and state officials will gather to celebrate what many have called one of the most ambitious academic projects in the university's history.

For Dean Dr. Heidi Banse, the moment represents the culmination of years of preparation.

"We are delighted to welcome our inaugural class to campus," Banse said. "We are thrilled with our progress and are looking forward to training students to be practice-ready and contribute to the veterinary workforce in Arkansas, the Mid-South, and beyond."

Unlike many traditional veterinary curricula, Arkansas State's program was built from the ground up around a competency-based educational model. The goal is simple: graduate veterinarians who are ready to enter practice with strong clinical skills, confidence, and hands-on experience.

The new College of Veterinary Medicine reflects that philosophy. The 56,000-square-foot facility was designed specifically for veterinary education, featuring surgical skills laboratories, simulation spaces, modern classrooms, and collaborative learning environments. Newly completed barns and an expanding ambulatory service provide students with opportunities to gain valuable large-animal experience from the beginning of their training.

Faculty recruitment has been another major focus. Nineteen faculty members will teach the inaugural class, with an additional 15 expected to join over the next year as the program continues to expand.

For Dr. Len Frey, senior associate dean, the opening represents the realization of a vision nearly a decade in the making.

"During the time in which I have been affiliated with Arkansas State University, the creation of the College of Veterinary Medicine is the single most significant strategic initiative the university has undertaken," Frey said. "It is one of the most entrepreneurial strategic decisions we have ever made as an institution."

Arkansas State System President Todd Shields, who has championed the project since arriving at the university in 2022, echoed that sentiment.

"What makes this accomplishment especially meaningful is that every decision was made with the goal of creating a program that serves students, meets workforce needs, and highlights the unique strengths of Arkansas State University."

As veterinary shortages continue to challenge communities across the country, particularly in food animal and rural practice, the launch of Arkansas State's College of Veterinary Medicine represents more than just the opening of another veterinary school. It represents an investment in the future of the profession and in the communities that depend on veterinarians every day.

For the students arriving on campus this August, they'll forever be remembered as the first class to walk through the doors. For Arkansas State, it's the beginning of a new chapter. And for veterinary medicine, it's one more reason to be optimistic about the future.