This annual report marks another year of change and challenge for the college. It has been a period of return to normal for many activities and also a time of significant growth. Classes are once again in person, our hospital caseload continues to grow, and our research labs are busier than ever.

But in many ways, things are very different from before the pandemic. Masking is still required indoors. Time-honored celebrations such as reunion and homecoming remained virtual — although we were able to safely celebrate in-person commencement ceremonies in the spring and fall. Throughout the pandemic, the college made critical contributions to the university’s COVID-19 response, with the CVM-run Cornell COVID-19 Testing Laboratory and our public health experts serving as the cornerstone of the public health response and prevention program. 

Through these extreme challenges, the college has made remarkable progress in each of our strategic priority areas. Notable achievements include the creation of the Dean’s Leaders Program, which will provide support for first-generation  and underrepresented students. Our college also launched the new Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, which unites public health professionals, scientists, and veterinarians to address global health challenges. Last month, we received a remarkable gift to establish the Cornell Margaret and Richard Riney Canine Health Center. Alumni and friends of the college have stepped up in many ways to help support student scholarships and other needs. Clinical and diagnostic services and research funding have all expanded significantly. I invite you to look through our updates in this annual report to get a closer look at all our efforts and to see how we’ve performed this year.

As we look ahead to the coming years, the college is positioning itself to do work that is most needed for the future conditions of our world. Through our education, service and discovery, I am confident that our institution will continue to make great headway in creating a healthier world for all.

I thank every member of the college community, as well as our donors, alumni and friends, for helping build the college into the exceptional institution it is today.

Lorin D. Warnick, D.V.M., Ph.D. ‘94
Austin O. Hooey Dean of Veterinary Medicine