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Welcome to the VetMedCast for September 9, 2024. This episode features an interview with Dr. Nicholas Frank, Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University. Remember to subscribe to the VetMedCast wherever you get your podcasts (Apple Podcasts is coming soon!)
This Week’s Episode
News and Announcements
- Alumni Weekend on October 25, 2024. Registration is now open.
- Awards Day is scheduled for November 13, 2024 honoring faculty and staff at CVM.
- Dr. Alicia Olivier has been named the permanent Associate Dean for Administration.
- The Dr. Elton Mac Huddleston Rural Veterinarian Scholarship Program has been established to encourage more students to become rural veterinarians.
- The Mary Beth and Billy Baldwin Vet Tech Scholarship provides $5,000 to vet tech students.
- Dr. Camilla Massarenas has joined the CVM faculty after completing her training at Auburn.
- Dr. Michael Panayiotis has become the new department head for the Department of Comparative Biomedical Sciences.
Interview with Dr. Nicholas Frank
- Dr. Frank discusses his journey from the UK to the US, including his initial struggles with chemistry.
- He shares his educational path, including his time at the University of North Carolina and Purdue University.
- Dr. Frank's career progression includes roles at the University of Tennessee and Tufts University.
- He was appointed as Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University on September 1, 2023.
Dr. Frank's Background and Family
- Dr. Frank's family background includes Hill farmers in Yorkshire Dales, leading to his interest in large animals.
- He discusses his wife's veterinary background and his sons' interest in veterinary medicine.
- Dr. Frank's specialty is large animals, particularly horses, and his research focus is on equine endocrinology.
- He emphasizes the importance of research in advancing the understanding and treatment of equine diseases.
Research and Teaching Focus
- Dr. Frank highlights the importance of research in addressing diseases like laminitis in horses.
- He discusses the advancements in research and diagnosis of equine endocrine diseases over his career.
- Dr. Frank's transition from practice to academia was driven by his desire to understand diseases more deeply and his enjoyment of teaching.
- He explains the variability of a Dean's day and the focus on teaching, service, and research.
Unique Aspects of the College of Veterinary Medicine
- Dr. Frank emphasizes the college's focus on training practice-ready veterinarians.
- The college has a strong veterinary medical technology program, which is not common in all vet schools.
- Research at the college addresses relevant issues, such as environmental toxicology and aquaculture.
- The college's diagnostic lab system plays a crucial role in disease surveillance and eradication.
Role of Veterinarians in Society
- Dr. Frank discusses the multifaceted role of veterinarians, including disease detection, food safety, and the human-animal bond.
- He highlights the importance of veterinarians in the agricultural industry and the safety of food sources.
- The college's diagnostic lab system is essential for preventing disease outbreaks in the poultry industry.
- Dr. Frank explains the dual benefit of research, where understanding animal diseases can lead to insights into human diseases.
Advice for Current and Aspiring Veterinary Students
- Dr. Frank advises current students to soak in the knowledge and experiences available during their veterinary degree.
- He emphasizes the importance of community involvement and communication skills for veterinarians.
- For aspiring veterinary students, he recommends gaining experience in veterinary medicine and engaging in various activities.
- The college looks for well-rounded students who can handle the rigorous curriculum and demonstrate commitment.
Preparing Students for the Future
- Dr. Frank discusses the importance of preparing students for future changes in disease distribution and the impact of artificial intelligence.
- The college focuses on developing problem-solving skills and adaptability in its students.
- The curriculum is designed to prepare students for a dynamic and ever-changing field of medicine.
- The college is committed to increasing access to education and engaging with young people to generate interest in veterinary medicine.
Rural Veterinary Practice Initiatives
- The College of Veterinary Medicine is committed to addressing the shortage of veterinarians in rural areas.
- The Center for Rural Veterinary Practice has been established to support students and new veterinarians in rural areas.
- The Dr. Elton Mac Huddleston Rural Veterinarian Scholarship provides financial support for students to practice in rural areas.
- The center will also provide coaching and support for new veterinarians in business and community engagement.
Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks
- Dr. Frank expresses pride in the college's efforts to increase access to education and support for rural veterinarians.
- The college is focused on engaging with young people and using the community college system to bring more students into veterinary education.
- Dr. Frank emphasizes the importance of addressing the shortage of veterinarians in rural areas and supporting new veterinarians in practice.
