At the start of each school year, the Texas Veterinary Medical Foundation (TVMF) welcomes the new class of veterinary students by providing them with a stethoscope for use during their education. TVMF Board and staff members enjoy spending time with the new students and welcoming them to the profession. 

This year, TVMF invited TVMA members to connect with and support the next generation of veterinarians by becoming a part of this annual tradition through the Sponsor a Student program. Gifts of $100 or more sponsored the purchase of a stethoscope for an incoming student in the class of 2024. TVMF asked TVMA members to include an encouraging message for the student to be included with each stethoscope. The contribution of a personalized note and connection to a supportive colleague made the gift more meaningful and exciting for the future veterinarians joining our profession. For many students, the gift of their first stethoscope is a true rite of passage, a moment when they feel like they have arrived in the profession. 

TVMA member’s willingness to support our efforts inspires others to have faith in what we do and to offer their support. We could not do what we do without the generosity of the TVMA membership. Thank you again to our TVMA members for your meaningful contribution to the Sponsor a Student program and for joining TVMF in this tradition to help us welcome these bright young minds!

This profession offers unlimited opportunity to be a hero and equal opportunity to be a chump. Remember that you are a champ. A little humility can help you avoid becoming a chump. Best of luck!” — Dr. Mike Sheffield, DVM

Welcome to the greatest profession on earth. It is our fervent hope that you will share and maintain our zeal and deep respect for organized veterinary medicine as you advance through all the wonderful, exciting years that lie before you.” — Dr. Charles R. Pipes, DVM

Welcome to Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine Class of 2024 and a huge congratulations to all of you. I know you are proud to become a member of the veterinary community. There will be many challenges ahead for you; it will not always be easy, but stay the course, remember the goal, and you will do well. I encourage you to be yourself, who you are, and appreciate what you are good at, such as surgery, medicine or whatever, and pursue that avenue. Please accept this stethoscope as a gift from the Texas Veterinary Medical Foundation to start your first year as a veterinary student. Good luck!” — Dr. J. Scott Mellina, DVM

Congratulations. You are about to embark on a very challenging but rewarding journey toward a wonderful career. Let this stethoscope be a daily reminder of your commitment to heal all creatures great and small.” — Dr. Robert L. Lastovica, DVM