By Andi Anderson
Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine (PVM) was strongly represented at the 59th Annual Conference of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP), held in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The event brought together veterinarians, veterinary students, technicians, and industry professionals from across the country to discuss advancements in bovine health, education, and veterinary practice.
A total of 17 Purdue veterinary students from the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program attended the conference alongside faculty members, staff, and alumni. The event provided valuable opportunities for learning, networking, and professional development while showcasing Purdue's commitment to excellence in veterinary education.
Among the students recognized at the conference, Jill Grantz of the DVM Class of 2028 received significant national honors. She was selected as one of only nine veterinary students nationwide to receive the prestigious $10,000 Merck Animal Health Bovine Veterinary Student Recognition Award. The award recognizes students who demonstrate outstanding commitment to bovine medicine and leadership within the veterinary profession.
Grantz also received the Hunter Lang Dairy Welfare Scholarship, making her one of only two veterinary students selected for the award. The scholarship was established in memory of Dr. Hunter Lang, who made important contributions to bovine veterinary medicine and animal welfare throughout his career. The scholarship supports students with a strong interest in dairy practice and animal welfare.
Another Purdue student, Mikey Galvin of the DVM Class of 2027, received the Edwin Robertson Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship provides financial assistance to students pursuing advanced training and experiences in reproductive veterinary medicine, including theriogenology, embryo transfer, and other reproductive technologies. Although Galvin was unable to attend the conference, his achievement was recognized during the event.
Purdue students also contributed to the conference through research presentations. Rainer Borgmann of the DVM Class of 2028 presented a research poster focused on dairy calf health and diagnostic techniques. Jill Grantz also participated by presenting her research during the meeting. These presentations allowed students to share knowledge and engage with veterinary professionals from across the industry.
Faculty and staff members representing Purdue included Dr. Andy Hubner, Clinical Assistant Professor of Farm Animal Field Services, Dr. Laura May, Food Animal Clinician in the Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, and Rebecca Hoffman, BS, RVT, Bovine/Swine Field Service Veterinary Technologist. Their participation further highlighted Purdue's active involvement in bovine veterinary education and industry engagement.
The conference also featured leadership from Purdue alumni. Dr. Mark Hilton (PU DVM '83), Purdue Veterinary Medicine alumnus and Professor Emeritus, served as the AABP president and the 2026 program chair, playing a key role in organizing the event.
Other Purdue students attending the conference included Zoey DeLaney, Connor Guest, Adalyn Harsh, Grant Heuing, Joe Lafiosca, Katie McKinley, Mason Tipton, Aidan Walker, Annalyssa Crain, Sam Currie, Maddie Dawson, Taylor Faulkenberg, Emma Roberts, Anne Troyer, and Julia Young.
Held from August 27 to August 29 under the theme "Developing Practices of Excellence," the conference attracted more than 900 participants, including nearly 270 veterinary students. In addition to educational sessions and networking opportunities, several Purdue representatives took part in a 5K Run/Walk fundraiser supporting student scholarships.
The strong presence of Purdue Veterinary Medicine at the conference demonstrated the college's dedication to student success, professional development, and advancement of bovine veterinary medicine. Through awards, research presentations, and active participation, Purdue students, faculty, and alumni continued to make meaningful contributions to the veterinary profession.
Photo Credit: purdue-university
Categories: Indiana, Education