K-State veterinary student named 2026 Chewy Veterinary Leaders Scholar
Second-year student Josh Waller is a recipient of the Chewy Veterinary Leader Scholarship.
Fifteen veterinary students nationwide were recently selected to receive the 2026 Chewy Veterinary Leaders Scholarship, made possible through the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges and Chewy Health. Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine second-year student Josh Waller, Trinidad, Colorado, is among this year’s recipients.
“It is truly an honor to be selected for the 2026 Chewy Veterinary Leaders Scholarship,” Josh said. “Receiving this scholarship helps ease the intense financial burden of veterinary school, but more importantly, it allows me to focus more of my efforts on gaining real-world experience and building valuable connections with other professionals in the veterinary field.”
The Chewy Veterinary Leaders Program provides recipients with a $20,000 scholarship. In addition to financial support, the program includes bimonthly peer support sessions, a visit to Chewy’s headquarters for leadership development and networking opportunities, and postgraduation enrollment in the MentorVet LEAP six-month mentorship program.
“I have learned that veterinary medicine requires immense mentorship, whether it is from a DVM or even a fellow student,” Josh said. “Being able to guide, support and lead the next generation of veterinarians is essential to the success of both the individual and the profession. The Chewy scholarship is helping propel me toward my future career in rural mixed animal medicine and supporting my journey to provide the highest quality care to all animals, large and small.”
To date, the program has awarded $900,000 in scholarships since its inception, demonstrating Chewy Health and the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges’ commitment to expanding access and leadership opportunities in veterinary medicine. Applications are available and accepted during the fall semester.
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