CVM receives recognition for academic excellence through Health Professions Higher Education Excellence and Distinction award
The College of Veterinary Medicine at Kansas State University was recently recognized for the fifth year in a row for a prestigious national award. This month, Insight Into Academia magazine, the largest and oldest publication dedicated to best practices in higher education, announced 29 recipients of the 2025 Health Professions Higher Education Excellence and Distinction Award. K-State is one of only three veterinary programs in the United States to be recognized with this award.
This national honor celebrates U.S. colleges and universities that have demonstrated a deep, sustained commitment to fostering academic excellence and community-building across all levels of veterinary campus life. From innovative recruitment and retention strategies to immersive engagement and leadership development, these institutions are setting a powerful example for higher education impact nationwide.
Award recipients will be featured in the October 2025 issue of Insight Into Academia magazine.
“The K-State College of Veterinary Medicine has a deep commitment to student training and professional preparedness,” said Interim Dean Dr. Elizabeth Davis. “We are fortunate to have a remarkable team of staff, faculty, interns and residents who collectively contribute to student education and wellness. Receiving this award serves as meaningful recognition of the CVMs impact and effectiveness.”
“Receiving the HEED award reflects our commitment to student success and a healthy, supportive learning environment,” said Caroline Rost, assistant dean of admissions. “The K-State College of Veterinary Medicine fosters a culture of excellence by prioritizing both student achievement and the well-being of our faculty and staff. Students benefit from a wide network of resources, including mentorship opportunities, peer tutoring, exceptional counseling services, and essential resources such as the Purple Pantry food pantry and Purple Threads clothing exchange. In addition, our student organizations provide opportunities for students to connect with peers and future colleagues who share their professional and personal interests and passions.”
Dr. Rost said the college also recognizes and celebrates the contributions of the faculty and staff, whose dedication makes student success possible.
“Initiatives such as the Staff Council Awards, Caring for Others Award, and VIP Parking Awards honor the commitment and service of those who support the K-State College of Veterinary Medicine community every day,” Dr. Rost said.
Sixty-two institutions were also recognized with the undergraduate HEED award. All the winning institutions are listed on the magazine website.
“We take a detailed and somewhat holistic approach to reviewing each application in determining who will be named a HEED Award recipient. Our standards are high, and we look for institutions where academic excellence and belonging are woven into the work being done every day across their campus,” says Lenore Pearlstein, Co-Publisher of Insight Into Academia magazine.
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For more information about the Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, please visit our website at vet.k-state.edu or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.