CVM to create professorship focusing on feline, canine nutrition
Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine is among five leading veterinary colleges nationwide to receive donations from Purina aimed at advancing scientific and nutritional breakthroughs in pet health.
For Auburn’s CVM, Purina’s gift will establish the Purina Professorship in Veterinary Nutrition within the Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology. The endowed position will focus on the development of education, training and clinical integration across all aspects of feline and canine nutrition.
“Nutrition is fundamental to animal health, and this professorship will strengthen our ability to integrate nutritional science into every facet of veterinary education and clinical practice,” College of Veterinary Medicine Dean Calvin Johnson said. “We are grateful to Purina for investing in the future of veterinary medicine and supporting our mission to improve the lives of pets and the people who care for them.”
Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology Department Head Robert Judd said the establishment of the new professorship will ultimately benefit CVM students.
“This gift opens new possibilities for the ways in which we provide students with advanced training that aligns with best practices,” Judd said. “It’s an exciting opportunity to enhance our curriculum and improve patient outcomes through evidence-based nutrition.”
The Purina Professorship will serve as a cornerstone for Auburn’s commitment to innovation in veterinary medicine, ensuring that graduates are prepared to lead in a rapidly evolving field where nutrition plays a critical role in preventive care and treatment. Purina Chief Veterinary Officer Dr. Kurt R. Venator said the company’s support of Auburn and other peer institutions reflects a desire to advance scientific understanding of feline and canine health and well-being. Founded in 1894, Purina has helped dogs and cats live longer and healthier lives through scientifically based nutritional innovations.
“For decades, we have worked closely with veterinary schools to advance pet health and support the professional development of the veterinary community,” Venator said. “These five new programs promise to offer nutritional and scientific advances and enrich the education and training of future leaders in veterinary medicine for generations to come.”