In a groundbreaking announcement, Hanover College has appointed Dr. Christina V. Tran, DVM, as the founding dean of its proposed School of Veterinary Medicine and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program. Dr. Tran brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this pioneering initiative, poised to reshape veterinary education.

With an illustrious career spanning two decades, Dr. Tran has distinguished herself as a leader in the veterinary profession. Currently serving as the clinical relations lead veterinarian and associate professor of practice at the University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine, she has previously held academic appointments at Purdue University and Portland Community College.

Dr. Tran's extensive background encompasses traditional, online, and hybrid instruction, along with distributed clinical education models. Her contributions to the field extend beyond academia, as she has served as a Council on Education site visitor and selection committee member for the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA). Additionally, Dr. Tran is actively involved in numerous national, state, and local boards and committees, advocating for advancements in veterinary education and practice.

Notably, Dr. Tran has received prestigious accolades, including the Arizona Veterinary Medical Association Distinguished Service Award and the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine’s Dr. Erwin Small Distinguished Alumni Award. Her commitment to excellence and innovation has earned her recognition as one of the "21 to Watch in 2021" by the Southern California Veterinary Medical Association.

Dr. Tran's appointment marks a significant milestone for Hanover College's veterinary program, slated to commence accreditation procedures with the Higher Learning Commission and AVMA COE in 2024. This rigorous two-year process will involve consultative site visits, self-study, and a comprehensive site visit, paving the way for the program's official launch.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the role, Dr. Tran stated, "I am thrilled to join Hanover College at this exciting time in its history. This innovative program has the potential to redefine veterinary education, and I can’t wait to start making it a reality."

Echoing her sentiments, Lake Lambert, president of Hanover College, expressed confidence in Dr. Tran's leadership, affirming, "Her vast and diverse experience, as well as her energy and optimism, will serve the program and Hanover very well."

With Dr. Tran at the helm, Hanover College's veterinary program is poised to chart new frontiers in veterinary education, preparing future generations of veterinarians to meet the evolving needs of the profession and society.