Texas A&M University's College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences: Global Veterinary Leadership Program

Abstract

The GVLP allows us to engage a few of our students in a process that makes them aware of the vital role they play in protecting public health and better equips them for a successful career in the world community. Recent education and research findings have encouraged and supported participation in the program from a broad array of students and faculty, both within and outside Texas A&M University. Importantly, the students who participate soon realize the value of examining their education in a new venue, and the faculty who participate find a new way of looking at the cultural basis of veterinary medicine and become agents of change. These programs support our efforts to promote mutual understanding of the problems of food safety and food security that are common to all countries by building sustainable partnerships that recognize and address the need for educational resources that extend well beyond the university. The GVLP supports the goals of the College of Veterinary Medicine in the following ways. Strategic Opportunity The GVLP builds on the critical role that the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences already plays in strengthening the safety of free trade in this hemisphere. Diversity in an Age of Specialization The GVLP combines a global orientation, language study, and access to comprehensive, economics-related study opportunities to prepare students for the expanding world market for veterinary expertise. New Linkages Through the success and high visibility of current research and education programs, the college is well positioned to engage industry, government, and university leaders about ways to use the proposed program to increase the flow of new ideas and talent into the world food enterprise. New Opportunities for International Funding and Outreach Industry, government, and college leaders can coordinate a strong multilateral request for funding from national and international agencies and corporations. Benefit to Texas A&M An externally funded program, initiated and coordinated by the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, that supports regional education and leadership development and training will meet all strategic plan goals. An Interdisciplinary Strategy That Benefits Veterinary Medicine The GVLP combines Texas A&M University's diverse research and education programs with our strong national and international network of collaborators to provide globally competent veterinarians who will be needed for the corporate and public opportunities of the future. © 2006 AAVMC.