Dean Marsh: A lifetime in animal health, a future with Purdue Veterinary Medicine 

By Dean Bret D. Marsh, DVM, Dean of Purdue College of Veterinary Medicine 

Growing up in rural Indiana, I learned early the value of agriculture, community and animal health. Those lessons guided me through veterinary school here at Purdue, through decades of service as Indiana’s State Veterinarian, and now back again to my alma mater, where I have the privilege of serving as Dean of the Purdue College of Veterinary Medicine. 

Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work alongside livestock producers, companion animal owners, equine enthusiasts, veterinarians and public officials — always with a focus on protecting animal health, safeguarding our food supply, and strengthening the bond between animals and people. This lifelong calling has prepared me well for this new chapter at Purdue, where I am honored to lead a college with such a rich history of excellence and a bright future ahead. 

This summer has been filled with energy and momentum. We welcomed prospective students and alumni back to campus, celebrated 4-Hers by thanking them at the Indiana State Fair, and joined forces with colleagues across the Purdue campus to strengthen agriculture and veterinary medicine partnerships. 

I was especially inspired to meet many of our alumni, who are leading in communities across Indiana and beyond, and to witness firsthand the impact of their Purdue education. We partnered with the College of Agriculture on their new faculty tour and had several faculty and staff members attend the tour to southeastern Indiana. It was a great way to take “Purdue on the Road” and to collaborate with the private sector. 

As we kicked off the 2025-26 academic year, we welcomed the Class of 2029 to campus. Continuing our ongoing commitment to serving Indiana, 55 of those 86 DVM students are Indiana residents. 

These future veterinarians bring diverse interests — from small animal and mixed animal practice to large animal, equine and even research — and embody the drive and dedication that define Purdue veterinary medicine. Their excitement is contagious, and it reminds us all why our work matters: preparing the next generation of veterinarians, researchers and leaders. 

Looking ahead, we have ambitious plans. We will continue strengthening our teaching hospital and clinical training programs, ensuring our students have access to world-class facilities and hands-on learning. We will deepen our partnerships with Indiana agricultural leaders and veterinary professionals to address workforce needs across food animal, equine and companion animal medicine. 

And we will enhance our alumni engagement efforts, keeping Purdue veterinary graduates connected and involved as mentors, advocates, and champions for the College. 

The future of Purdue Veterinary Medicine is bright. With the support of our faculty, staff, students, alumni and partners in Indiana agriculture, I am confident we will build on our proud legacy and expand our impact for years to come. It is truly a privilege to serve this College, and I look forward to walking alongside all of you as we shape what comes next for veterinary medicine in Indiana and beyond.