Honoring the Class of 2025

Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University's 43rd Commencement ceremony was held May 18 on the Grafton campus. One hundred thirty-six degrees were awarded.

Nine students earned a Master of Science in Animals and Public Policy (MAPP), 21 received a Master of Science in Conservation Medicine (MCM), and 7 secured a Master of Science in Infectious Disease and Global Health (MS-IDGH). Erin King was the recipient of a Doctor of Philosophy. Ninety-four students earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (D.V.M.), 2 received dual D.V.M./Master of Science in Laboratory Animal Medicine, two received dual D.V.M./Master of Public Health degrees, and one student secured a postgraduate certificate in International Veterinary Medicine.

In his opening remarks, Dean Alastair Cribb, D.V.M., Ph.D., FCAHS, welcomed graduates, families, and friends, sharing, “Today is the culmination of an exciting journey of learning and discovery.” He thanked faculty, administrative staff, and all employees for their contributions to and support of the Class of 2025.

Hugh Roome, Chair of Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine’s Board of Advisors, welcomed the new graduates to the community of alums at Tufts University - 135,000 strong across 160 countries - saying, “Spread your light in ways that you are uniquely able to do so.”

When a retiring faculty has given exceptional service to the university, the designation of emeritus/a is awarded. This year Cummings School awarded emeritus/a to 5 recipients. Read more about each recipient:

• Carl Kirker-Head, Vet.M.B., Professor of Clinical Sciences
• Mary Labato, D.V.M., V83, Clinical Professor of Clinical Sciences
• Cynthia Leveille-Webster, D.V.M., Professor of Clinical Sciences
• Florina Tseng, D.V.M., Professor of Infectious Disease and Global Health
• Saul Tzipori, B.V.Sc., Ph.D., D.Sc., Distinguished Professor of Infectious Disease and Global Health

Representing the M.S. graduates, Jaimie Kender, VG24 (MAPP), presented the student address. Her call to action for her fellow M.S. graduates quoted Star Wars, “There will be times when the struggle feels impossible, but remember this, try.”

M.S. graduates received their hoods from Allen Rutberg, Ph.D., associate research professor of infectious disease and global health and Christopher Whittier, D.V.M., Ph.D., V97, assistant teaching professor of infectious disease and global health. Each graduate received their degree from Associate Dean for Graduation Education, Marvin Schulte, Ph.D.

The Doctor of Philosophy degree in biomedical sciences was awarded to Erin King, VG16 (MAPP), VG25 (PHD), by Associate Dean for Graduation Education Marvin Schulte, Ph.D.  

The M.S. faculty address was delivered by Alison Robbins, D.V.M., V92, assistant teaching professor of infectious disease and global health. “Stick to your values, trust in your passions, and never give up,” shared Dr. Robbins.

Dr. Jenise Joi Carter, V25, was selected by her peers to deliver the D.V.M. class address. Dr. Carter reminded her fellow graduates, “Because of these shared fundamental moments over the past four years, we have gained not only a few letters after our names, but a myriad of intangible gifts to take with us.”

Co-Class Presidents Dr. Cassaundra Marie Lang and Dr. Courtney Rose Wallner presented the Class Gift from the V25s. “Tufts at Tech Community Veterinary Clinic at Worcester Technical High School is a really special place for our class,” shared Dr. Wallner. The Class of 2025 purchased a portable ultrasound probe and Ipad to assist students in practicing imaging techniques, and to examine and treat patients.

Raymond Kudej, D.V.M., Ph.D., associate professor of clinical sciences and Clare Timothy, B.V.Sc., assistant clinical Professor of clinical sciences hooded D.V.M. candidates.

Dr. Kumari Andarawewa, director of the D.V.M./Laboratory Animal Medicine program presented the Master of Science in Laboratory Medicine diplomas, and Dr. Meera Gatlin, V16, MG16, presented D.V.M./Master of Public Health diplomas. D.V.M. candidates received their degrees from Dr. Melissa Mazan, V93, associate dean for professional education.

Kayla Sample, D.V.M., assistant clinical professor of clinical sciences, gave the D.V.M. faculty address. Dr. Sample began, “While this feels like the end of a significant chapter, I promise you now is truly the beginning of the rest of your lives.” She shared her mantra, “If you are feeling uncomfortable, you must be growing…It’s easy to get caught up in this feeling of knowing nothing. Those are the precise moments where we are growing the most.”

Massachusetts Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA) President Monica Mansfield, D.V.M., welcomed the graduates into the profession and led them and veterinarians in the audience in the recitation of the Veterinarian's Oath, as follows:

Being admitted to the profession of veterinary medicine, I solemnly swear to use my scientific knowledge and skills for the benefit of society through the protection of animal health and welfare, the prevention and relief of animal suffering, the conservation of animal resources, the promotion of public health, and the advancement of medical knowledge.

I will practice my profession conscientiously, with dignity, and in keeping with the principles of veterinary medical ethics.

I accept as a lifelong obligation the continual improvement of my professional knowledge and competence.

Dean Cribb shared a message from Dr. Cynthia Smith, V99 and a member of Tufts University Board of Trustees. 
“As veterinarians and graduate students of our masters programs, we operate at the intersection of animal, humans, and environmental health. In doing so we are uniquely positioned to reconnect humanity with our love for the natural world. The world needs you and you are ready. We can’t wait to see what you do next.”

In closing, Dean Cribb asked all graduates to stand and move their tassels from right to left and then presented the graduating class of 2025 to everyone gathered.

Student achievement awards

At the Dean's Dinner, held May 16, graduating students received annual achievement awards. Thirty-two awards were presented.

Faculty excellence awards

At the Dean's Dinner on May 16, four faculty members were recognized with awards of excellence. 

Honos Civicus Society

Two graduates were named to the Honos Civicus Society, recognizing graduating students who have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to community service and civic engagement during their studies. Completion of an application is required for students to be considered among those who have good academic and professional standing, an outstanding record of professionalism and ethical behavior, and demonstrated leadership and dedication. 

New Honos Civicus inductees are Dr. Natasha Ariel Feier, V25, and Dr. Cassaundra Marie Lang, V25.