Historic Groundbreaking Marks a New Era for Arkansas with the State’s First Public College of Veterinary Medicine
Arkansas is set to make history with the groundbreaking of its very first public College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM). On Wednesday, March 12, a special ceremony was held at the corner of Driver Street and University Loop, marking the start of a transformative project for the state’s veterinary education and agricultural communities.
“We are excited to launch this community-based model of education here at A-State in Jonesboro,” said Dr. Heidi Banse, dean of the CVM. “Collaboration across our campus and the state of Arkansas will be key to our success.”
The ceremony, open to the public, featured remarks from university leaders such as Chancellor Todd Shields, Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost Calvin White Jr., along with students, architects, and community supporters. Chancellor Shields underscored the significance of the college in meeting the state's growing need for veterinary care.
“The CVM will play a pivotal role in supporting Arkansas’ agricultural and rural communities by training veterinarians who will stay and serve right here in our state,” Shields stated. “This is a vital step towards ensuring that Arkansas has the skilled professionals to care for our livestock, pets, and wildlife.”
The new College of Veterinary Medicine will partner with veterinary practices across the state, providing critical hands-on training for students in their final year. Dr. Banse highlighted the importance of these partnerships, noting, “We are deeply thankful to our state’s veterinary practitioners and local shelters for joining us in providing meaningful training experiences for our students.”
Slated for completion in the fall of 2026, the CVM will address the state's pressing shortage of veterinarians, as Arkansas currently lacks an in-state option for veterinary education.
“This is a monumental milestone for us,” Dr. Banse added, “and it’s incredible to see the building beginning to take shape after a year of planning and design.”
The new $33.2 million, 56,000-square-foot facility will feature cutting-edge laboratories, a surgical training area, versatile classrooms, study spaces, and clinical skills practice areas available 24/7. As the opening date approaches, the CVM will continue to expand its faculty and develop its curriculum to train the next generation of veterinary professionals.
This historic development promises to shape the future of veterinary care in Arkansas for years to come!
