Each student received a blue lab coat, symbolizing the beginning of their academic journey and their commitment to the values of veterinary medicine. The ceremony also honoured Indigenous traditions with a welcome message acknowledging the lands of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and reflecting on the responsibilities veterinarians have to their communities, animals and the environment.
Dr. Janice Honda, President of the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association; Dr. Louise Kelly, President and Registrar of the College of Veterinarians of Ontario and Dr. Lorie Gold, President of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, offered words of encouragement and a strong call to community. Together, they reminded the students that success in veterinary medicine is built not only on knowledge and skill, but also on compassion, collaboration and lifelong learning.
Among the honoured guests was Dr. Paul Woods, President of the OVC Alumni Association, who welcomed the students on behalf of more than 12,000 OVC alumni. He encouraged the new class to embrace every opportunity the college offers and to build connections that will support them throughout their careers.
The ceremony also celebrated the continued success of OVC’s Northern Cohort program, created through the partnership between the University of Guelph and Lakehead University. The initiative is helping address veterinary shortages in underserved communities while preparing future veterinarians to serve diverse populations across Ontario.
Closing the ceremony, Dean Julia Montgomery reflected on the evolving nature of veterinary medicine and the important role the Lapis Lynx will play in shaping its future.
“In my opinion, veterinary medicine is the best profession in the world. You get to improve the lives of animals and humans. You get to be a lifelong learner, and you get to choose your own professional journey... You get to stay curious.”
The rich blue of lapis symbolizes wisdom, truth and purpose, qualities that will guide the Class of 2030 throughout their veterinary education and beyond.
