Endowed professorships play a vital role in advancing academic and clinical programs and providing long-term support for faculty, students, and patient care. Dr. Caroline Betbeeze-Ivy, associated clinical professor of ophthalmology, recently received an endowed professorship, a milestone that will have a lasting impact on veterinary ophthalmology at Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Dr. Betbeeze-Ivy shared her excitement upon learning of the honor.
“I was so excited, and I was surprised as well,” she said. “But I just felt really proud that the ophthalmology department is going to be supported forever. That feeling is really good, especially since we have worked so hard to build it.”
The endowment will enhance training opportunities for students while supporting the department’s continued growth. While the full benefits will take time to develop, Dr. Betbeeze-Ivy sees a bright future.
“I think in the future, we will be able to offer even more advanced procedures because we will have the funding to buy specialized equipment,” she said. “We’ll also be able to provide more hands-on opportunities for students by expanding the equipment they have access to.”
The professorship was made possible through the generosity of Harold and Joan Marie Corbin, who established the endowment after experiencing firsthand the impact of MSU CVM’s ophthalmology service. Their dog, Max, a Shih Tzu with a severe corneal ulcer, received expert care from Dr. Betbeeze-Ivy recalled. “There was a lot of concern because he only had one eye. We were able to save his vision, and that experience led the Corbins to establish this endowment.”
Beyond equipment and student training, the endowed funds may also support additional staffing in the future.
We could potentially have the option to fund interns and residents long-term,” Dr. Betbeeze said. “An endowment like this really changes things. It helps us offer an excellent learning experience for students, provide top-tier care for patients, and reduce the financial barriers to specialized procedures.”
She also emphasized the importance of philanthropy in veterinary medicine, encouraging others to consider making similar gifts.
“For people thinking about giving this a great way to do it,” she said. “Building strong relationships with clients and donors can lead to meaningful, lasting contributions. You never know where it might lead. The Corbins are super happy. We're super happy. It’s a great outcome.”
Dean Dr. Frank added, "Endowed professorships allow us to recognize the world-class faculty we have at MSU CVM, and we are very appreciative of the generous gift from Mr. and Mrs. Corbin. Dr. Betbeze is an outstanding veterinary ophthalmologist who provides advanced medical and surgical care to animals in Mississippi while also teaching students and advancing her specialty."
Thanks to the generosity of donors like the Corbins, endowed professorships to elevate education, research, and clinical care at MSU CVM. With this latest investment in ophthalmology, the service is poised to grow and thrive for years to come.
For more information about supporting MSU CVM initiatives, please contact Jimmy Kight, senior director of development at MSU CVM, at 662.325.5893
