The Mary Beth and Billy Baldwin Vet Tech Scholarship
Billy and Mary Beth Baldwin display the true spirit of philanthropy, especially when it comes to supporting the future of veterinary care. The Baldwins recently chose to make a generous gift to the Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine Veterinary Medical Technology Program, helping to fund a scholarship for a student in need. Their motivation is an understanding of the vital role veterinary medical technologists play in animal care.
“A good VMT makes all the difference,” Mary Beth emphasizes. “Billy and I know this firsthand through all our vet visits with our dogs, we have become good friends with the VMTs at the Animal Health Center.”
In her opinion, these professionals have an unmatched ability to bring comfort during some of the toughest moments in pet ownership. This deep appreciation for the emotional support VMTs provide inspired her and Billy to contribute to the program.
The Baldwins have always been dog lovers, with their family once reaching as many as six dogs, and their experiences in saying goodbye to their beloved pets have shaped their commitment to veterinary care. Throughout the last two years, they have experienced multiple visits to their local vet, as well as the AHC, and have truly learned first-hand what a difference a confident and competent vet tech can make. After losing one of their beloved labs in May, and the VMT helping to make that experience so personal and special with their final moments, the decision to establish the scholarship was made. To be able to make such a sad and devastating time one of love and patience and kindness is truly a gift.
In her role at the MSU CVM within the Office of Development, Mary Beth interacts with numerous donors, often highlighting the importance of the VMT program, which is sometimes overshadowed by the popularity of the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Program. She and Billy both want to raise awareness about the critical role VMTs play and encourage others to consider supporting the MSU VMT program, which provides education and hands-on training for those who wish to pursue a career in this noble profession.
Because of Mary Beth’s personal and professional experience, she knows investing in the VMT program is not only rewarding but so important. “We understand that every little bit helps,” she states, encouraging others to contribute regardless of the size of their donations. “We started out giving $20 a month… the ‘little bits’ matter, too, and our recent gift is also a monthly amount that works for our budget. You can support a cause that is important to you and make a difference without just writing out one big check.”
Mary Beth and Billy expressed their excitement about meeting the first student who benefits from their gift, and they hope their choice will inspire others to support the college’s VMT program, and, as she said, “give back to those who love on pets” and help pet owners celebrate the joys of pet ownership as well as comfort them through its challenges.
“We didn’t make this gift for recognition, but it has been nice to see how very appreciated it is. More than anything, we want to help those who dedicate their lives to caring for animals,” she says. “Our whole legacy is going to be here at the CVM. This is just a starting point us; we hope to endow the scholarship one day.”
Billy and Mary Beth do not have children; instead, their dogs are their children. “Our legacy will be helping animals,” Billy says, emphasizing their dedication to supporting veterinary professionals who care for pets like theirs.
The Baldwins’ commitment to supporting the VMT program is a demonstration to their love for animals and their desire to improve the quality of veterinary care. Through their generous contributions, they are making sure that future generations of VMTs will be equipped to provide the compassionate care that every animal deserves.
