VCOM View Vol 9-1

The Center for One Health Research (continued)

some of the story behind how the VCOM/VMCVM Center for One Health Research was started. “In establishing this new center, our two schools are upholding a mutual commitment to One Health based on the understanding that animal, human and environmental health are inextricably linked,” said Dr. Clarke. “We have come together in a manner which creates interdisciplinary rigor, enthusiasm, and energy and creates an opportunity to put together teams that achieve the critical mass that is essential to accomplishing our aspirational research goals.” Dixie Tooke-Rawlins, DO, VCOM President and Provost, followed, speaking about growing VCOM’s partnership with the veterinary school.

John Rocovich Jr., JD, LLM, Chairman of the Board of Directors at VCOM and Gerhardt Schurig, DVM, professor and former Dean of VMCVM, both gave accounts of how they have watched the

veterinary school grow over the years. Rocovich told the audience about the building

when his wife attended Virginia Tech and how the new renovation is a big improvement. Lauren Sheehan, a Biomedical and Veterinary Sciences PhD student at VMCVM, was invited to the stage and shared how she thinks the new collaboration will enhance the work she is doing in the labs. She also expressed her gratitude for the new project.

VCOM researcher and faculty member, Pawel Michalak, PhD, gives event attendees a tour of his lab.

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