Humane Veterinary Medical Alliance, the veterinary division of Humane World for Animals (formerly called Humane Society of the United States), is proud to announce the recipients of its Compassionate Care Scholarships, awarded to veterinary students who demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to animal welfare through professional and volunteer activities. This marks the fourth year that HumaneVMA has awarded these $10,000 scholarships to veterinary students attending schools in North America, the Caribbean and the UK accredited by the American Veterinary Medical Association.
This year’s recipients are:
- Elise Weir, University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, class of 2029.
- Gracie Hufford, Colorado State University College of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, class of 2028.
- Maria Rivera, University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Veterinary Medicine, class of 2028.
- Maya Faye Gordon, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, class of 2027.
- Melissa Waltiere, Midwestern University College of Veterinary Medicine, class of 2028.
Heather Schrader, senior program manager of student outreach for HumaneVMA, said: “Our scholarship recipients stand out because of their inherent compassion for the welfare of all animals and the people who care for them. These veterinary students are actively seeking ways to expand access to care and include historically marginalized communities within the veterinary profession. They are our future humane leaders.”
HumaneVMA advances animal welfare through leadership, advocacy, education and service in the veterinary field. Schrader says that advancing animal welfare requires deliberate and conscious attempts to include more people and more perspectives. These scholarships honor students who exhibit a profound commitment to animal welfare and demonstrate dedication to expanding equitable access and inclusion within veterinary medicine. The awardees contribute to the organization’s initiative to create a more sustainable, humane world for all animals from within the veterinary field.
Highlights of the students’ work, in their own words, can be read on the HumaneVMA website.
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