Dean, Mentor, Boilermaker: Celebrating Willie Reed and His Lasting Legacy on the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine

This Is Purdue

In this episode of “This Is Purdue,” we’re talking to Willie Reed, dean of Purdue University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.

Join us as we celebrate Reed’s legacy as he prepares to step down after 17 years as dean. When you listen to this episode, you can expect to:

• Learn more about Dean Reed’s incredible journey of persistence — from being taught first grade by his grandmother in southern Alabama to becoming dean of one of the top veterinary schools in the country.
• Discover what led Dean Reed to pursue a career as a veterinarian as he discusses his love for animals and current pathology research happening at Purdue.
• Explore Purdue’s research on the human-animal bond and how animals have a positive effect on human mental and physical health.
• Take a closer look at how Dean Reed’s efforts have met the increasing demand for veterinary professionals by expanding and adapting the College of Veterinary Medicine’s world-class facilities.
• Find out about Dean Reed’s future endeavors, including mentoring students in underrepresented communities to teach them the path to becoming a veterinarian.

“There’s something about the Purdue spirit that is unique,” Dean Reed says. “When you come here, this is a place where dreams can come true.”

Don’t miss this episode celebrating the legacy of a Purdue icon who has dedicated his career to positively impacting the lives of animals, students and the entire Boilermaker community.