Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) has been awarded a $64,600 grant from the Hulman Family. The grant will assist in developing a unique equine breeding program to support the new pre-veterinary curriculum. The objective is to train students in the hands-on skills needed to become successful equine veterinarians and place them on the pathway to support the high demand in Indiana’s equine industry.
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The grant will enable the College to expand the current facilities to add a breeding haddock. The equine pre-veterinary medicine bachelor’s degree program was launched in the fall of 2023 in the Mari Hulman George School of Equine Studies.
The breeding program benefits all equine students, particularly pre-veterinary track students, by providing specialized skills addressing a unique equine industry need. It offers early career-relevant training, facilitating career success and preparation for veterinary school applications. This large-animal focus enhances post-baccalaureate studies, considering many veterinary programs emphasize small animals. The aim is to bolster the pipeline of Indiana veterinarians, with a focus on equine and large animal practitioners.
Ed Ferguson, chair of the equine department, commented, “We are grateful to the Hulman Family for their continued support of the equine department at SMWC. This grant will enable the College to take another step as a unique program in Indiana and the nation.”
SMWC offers bachelor’s degrees in Equine Pre-Vet Science as well as Equine Studies. In addition, the College offers minors in Equine Assisted Therapy, Equine Breeding Management and Equine Therapeutic Riding. For more information visit smwc.edu/equinestudies.