I am not a big sports fan, but between the fall weather, the truly delightful Apple Cup outcome this year when the Cougs beat the University of Washington Huskies, the spirited WSU marching band, and the students trekking around everywhere, I feel a deep sense of gratitude for WSU spirit and fortitude. And I really love the role our college plays in the fabric of this community and our larger community. I just returned from a trip to Seattle where I witnessed and championed the full spectrum of who we are and what we do.
For our annual Celebration of Excellence in Seattle, we highlighted innovations in veterinary emergency and critical care. Dr. Jamie Peyton, a relatively new associate professor in the college, captivated our guests with her groundbreaking work using sterilized tilapia skin to provide pain relief and wound healing for animals that have sustained burns, especially in wildfires. She truly highlights innovative discovery and cutting-edge clinical care. And, at the other end of care, I also spent time at the Doney Coe Pet Clinic, a Seattle flagship program, founded by WSU veterinarians over 35 years ago, that provides access to quality veterinary care for animals that otherwise would not receive medical care, animals owned by low income or unhoused individuals. Our students rotate at this clinic and learn how to heal and help with fewer resources. These are the innovative solutions we need to address the cost of veterinary care so that all animals can get the basic health care they deserve.
One of the true hidden wonders of our college is the deep innovation that infuses our culture – from our unique and highly successful research and global health programs to innovative clinicians and teachers. I will end by sharing with you that this past week was Healthcare Simulation Week. Who knew? I know because I got to help in the celebration by working with our amazing Senior Director of Development Lynne Haley and our simulation-based education team to make a video based on a new virtual reality training tool.
This tool is currently being developed by a health care virtual reality company and the U.S. military to immerse students in high-stakes scenarios they may not see during their clinical training. Our goal is to create custom virtual reality simulations tailored for veterinary students and, not surprisingly, one of our DVM alumni is engaged with this new innovative education program. Do enjoy Lynne and me doing some triage care for this military working dog. Know that when we left the program, the dog was alive and well!
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Be safe, healthy, happy, and stay hopeful.
Take care, Dori Borjesson