DVM Class of 2029: Professional Welcome Ceremony Highlights

On Sunday, September 7, the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC) proudly welcomed the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) Class of 2029, the Wisteria Wolves, during the Professional Welcome Ceremony, a cherished tradition marking the students’ formal entry into the veterinary profession.

Led by Dr. Joanne Hewson, Associate Dean of Students and Academic, the ceremony opened with a bagpipe procession by Dr. Tony Abrams Ogg, Professor Emeritus from OVC’s Department of Clinical Studies, ushering students and guests into the hall. Over 1,400 family members, friends and supporters joined online to witness this milestone moment.

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 video message that included Gimaa (Chief) Stacey Laforme of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation, reminding attendees of the sacred trust we hold with the land and its peoples.

Hewson captured the spirit of the day with a heartfelt message: “Although there is a lot of weight that comes with being a veterinarian, it is a heavy package of opportunity more than anything else.”

Dr. Heather Fretz, President of the Ontario Veterinary Medical Association, and Dr. Jessica Retterath, President of the College of Veterinarians of Ontario and Dr. Lorie Gold, President of the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association, offered wisdom, encouragement and a strong call to community. Gold, a proud member of OVC’s DVM Class of ’83, added a personal touch by gifting the class a vintage wolf t-shirt from his own cohort, symbolizing the enduring bond between generations of veterinarians.

Among the honoured guests was Dr. Paul Woods, President of the OVC Alumni Association, who welcomed the students on behalf of over 12,000 alumni and encouraged them to embrace the full OVC experience, both inside and outside the classroom.

This year’s ceremony also celebrated the launch of the new Northern Cohort, as part of a partnership between the University of Guelph and Lakehead University, aimed at expanding veterinary care in underserved regions. A video message from the Honourable Nolan Quinn, Ontario’s Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security, highlighted the province’s support for this transformative program.

Closing the ceremony, Dean Jeffrey Wichtel reflected on the evolving nature of veterinary medicine and the role of the Wisteria Wolves in shaping its future: “The wolf exemplifies the fierce dedication that we veterinarians are known for… intelligent, adaptable, and resourceful—just like you will need to be.”

Watch the full Professional Welcome Ceremony on YouTube.