Wolfe Foundation Donates $10 Million to Establish Rita Jean Wolfe Deanship at Ohio State’s College of Veterinary Medicine
In a remarkable tribute to the late Rita Wolfe, the Robert F. Wolfe and Edgar T. Wolfe Foundation has committed $10 million to The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. This generous gift will establish the Rita Jean Wolfe Deanship, a position that was officially approved by the university’s board of trustees during their August 22 meeting.
Rita Wolfe, daughter of Ann Isaly Wolfe and the late John F. Wolfe, was known for her deep commitment to civic leadership in Columbus, following in the footsteps of her family's long-standing tradition of service. Throughout her life, she served on the boards of several organizations, including The Harmony Project, Leadership Columbus, and The James Cancer Hospital. However, her passion for animals was particularly noteworthy. Rita was a dedicated board member of Columbus Humane and contributed her time and expertise to the College of Veterinary Medicine as part of the Dean’s Philanthropic Engagement Council. Additionally, she was a longtime client of Ohio State’s Veterinary Medical Center, reflecting her deep connection to the institution.
“Rita Wolfe, like other members of her family, was dedicated to compassion, service, and understated leadership in our community,” said President Walter “Ted” Carter Jr. “The Rita Jean Wolfe Deanship in the College of Veterinary Medicine will cement Rita’s legacy and build upon her passion for improving the health and well-being of animals and people. Support like this – combined with the talents of our faculty, staff, and partners – is a big part of why this university is so exceptional.”
The establishment of the Rita Jean Wolfe Deanship marks a significant milestone for the College of Veterinary Medicine, directly impacting the future of veterinary excellence at Ohio State. The deanship, named in Rita's honor, will support faculty preeminence, student success, and the advancement of the college’s programs. This new position will guide the college forward, continuing a legacy of innovation and excellence that has been over 135 years in the making.
“Rita made a profound difference, positively influencing the lives of countless animals and people,” said Rustin Moore, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Ohio State. “We are deeply honored to recognize and preserve her passion and dedication to animal health, well-being, and the field of veterinary medicine for generations to come. She will be forever missed, but never forgotten. What an incredible and indelible legacy for Rita to be forever connected with our college and the deanship!”
The Wolfe Foundation’s transformative gift not only honors Rita’s remarkable character but also expands upon the family’s longstanding philanthropic investments in the College of Veterinary Medicine. These investments include the creation of the Wolfe Associates Inc. Endowed Professorship in Canine Clinical and Comparative Medicine. The Wolfe family's generosity extends across Ohio State, supporting various initiatives such as cancer research, scholarships, athletics, and the medical center’s new hospital tower.
The Rita Jean Wolfe Deanship will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the College of Veterinary Medicine, ensuring that Rita Wolfe’s legacy of compassion and care continues to impact the field for generations to come.
“Rita was an incredibly loving, empathetic, and generous individual, which is why it was important for our family to honor her life and legacy through this gift supporting an organization that she was so passionate about – the College of Veterinary Medicine,” said Katie Wolfe Lloyd, Rita’s sister and a trustee of the Wolfe Foundation. “The deanship carrying Rita’s name will serve as a lasting tribute and testament to how much she cared for animals and people.”
