Top dollar approved to encourage future veterinarians

When the distribution of the well-received Image/Career video "Veterinary Medicine: Caring for the Future" began in 1990, the video was most often shown in groups in classrooms. Today the video is most viewed in libraries and career centers, and on a more individual basis.

By the end of the 2000 school year, the current video will have had over 11 million viewers, and it is beginning to show its age. The Council on Public Relations reviewed the video and believes that the Association would be better served by a new Image/Career video.

Funding in the amount of $296,500, the most costly proposal before the Executive Board at the Nov 2000 meeting, was approved and will be included in the 2002 budget to produce a new video, plus an interactive CD-ROM version. A DVD and tape will also be available.

The current Image/Career video program encourages students to consider veterinary medicine as a career, and gives them a better understanding of the work of veterinarians and the role they play in public, human, and animal health.

"This is our best opportunity to reach young children and convince them that veterinary medicine is for them," said Dr. Henry E. Childers (District I).

Ten production companies submitted proposals for the project.