The Iowa Stater
November 2000
Vet helps future vets
When Todd Williams was a third grader in Ottumwa, a veterinarian moved into the house next door. Soon, Williams' older brother was working as a kennel assistant for Dr. Steve Menke ('76), with Williams helping out. When his brother went to college, Williams took his place, caring for boarded animals and accompanying Dr. Menke on calls. Eventually, Williams assisted with examinations and surgeries.Now, a third-year student in the College of Veterinary Medicine, Williams is one of four selected for the new Price Scholarship. The $5,000 scholarship is named for Dr. Harvey and Corinne Price, who left $630,000 to the college. A 1946 graduate, Price practiced veterinary medicine in Ada, Okla.
The Price gift is part of the College of Veterinary Medicine's scholarship endowment that totals nearly $5 million. This year, $281,000 in scholarships went to 240 recipients, a dramatic increase over two years ago when 186 students received $177,000.
Scholarships are especially critical for veterinary medical students. Many, like Williams, are partially or wholly self-supporting. Most, who accrue about $50,000 in student loans by graduation, begin their careers with modest starting salaries. When Williams graduates in 2002, a job awaits him back home.