Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine Recognizes Class of 2013

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (RUSVM) marked its 47th commencement ceremony today at the Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center, New York. Mr. Clinton Lewis, Jr., executive vice president and president, U.S. operations at Zoetis (formerly Pfizer Animal Health) delivered the keynote address.

RUSVM conferred the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree on more than 280 graduates during the commencement ceremony, which marked the end 2012-2013 academic year.

Lewis encouraged graduates to stay focused on advancing the profession of veterinary medicine. He emphasized the role of veterinarians across fifty-plus professional areas of concentration, from research and development to corporate veterinary medicine to non-governmental agencies.

The profession and the broader world needs ambitious, determined practitioners and there are a myriad of opportunities across the country and around the world, said Lewis. I see the future of veterinary medicine as very bright and full of opportunities but you need to see it and seize it.

Lewis oversees the management of the livestock and companion animal businesses in the United States and is also responsible for leading the global genetics business for Zoetis. Zoetis is a global animal health company dedicated to supporting veterinarians and livestock producers who raise and care for farm and companion animals. Lewis said that Zoetis is committed to better understanding and addressing real-world challenges faced by those who raise and care for animals.

The partnership between Ross and Zoetis has been positive, collaborative and focused on advancing your training and the profession, said Lewis to the RUSVM graduates.

Dr. Elaine Watson, RUSVM dean, encouraged the graduates to explore the many opportunities available to them in veterinary medicine and understand the importance of human dependence on animals.

Veterinarians are central in ensuring the health and well-being of our planet. Challenge yourself in new directions and look for ways to connect varying disciplines and societal gaps. Do not limit yourself by conventional thinking, said Watson. Connecting people, animals and the environment provides a unique platform to understand the interdependence of all species.

RUSVMs graduating class includes students from 43 different states, Canada, Puerto Rico, and other international locations. The Right Honorable Dr. Denzil Douglas, Prime Minister of St. Christopher and Nevis, where RUSVMs campus is located, joined members of RUSVM faculty and leadership at the ceremony.