We’re proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 OVMA Future Veterinarian Bursaries, an initiative that supports high school students from marginalized communities who dream of a career in veterinary medicine. This bursary is part of OVMA’s I Matter commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion (EDI) and well-being in the profession.

This year, 13 incredible students applied, and after careful review by our EDI & well-being committee, three inspiring individuals stood out for their passion, perseverance and insight. Selection was based on:

• Identity factors such as gender, race, sexual orientation and mental health challenges.
• Motivation, self-awareness and genuine interest in veterinary medicine.
• Depth of thought and independence in their application.
• Efforts to understand the profession beyond a love of animals.
  
  

We’re thrilled to introduce the 2025 recipients: Ashlyn Retzler (Parry Sound High School), Lauren Cowan (Nantyr Shores Secondary School) and Daniel Tanner (William Lyon Mackenzie Collegiate Institute). Congratulations!

The bursary program will return for the 2025-2026 school year. If you know a high school student from an underserved or underrepresented community who dreams of becoming a veterinarian but may lack the means or support, please encourage them to apply.

Together, we can help open doors for the next generation of veterinary professionals.