St. Nicholas University School of Veterinary Medicine (SNU) is implementing a targeted initiative to increase diversity within the veterinary profession in the Caribbean, focusing on attracting and supporting students from the Caricom region. This effort addresses a documented and drastic lack of diversity in the regional field, where Caribbean, Black, and Minority individuals – often from lower-income communities - are significantly under-represented. This under-representation can limit access to veterinary care for diverse communities.

SNU has established several programs to address this disparity. Their Veterinary MedicineScholarship Program offers financial assistance specifically to Caricom students with academicmerit and a demonstrated commitment to serving under-served communities.

Additionally, the university's Mentorship Program pairs incoming Caribbean students withexperienced Caribbean faculty members, providing them with guidance and support throughouttheir academic journey. These programs are resonating with students from under-representedbackgrounds. An Aboriginal/Black student from the USA, Will B., exemplifies this. "Aftergraduating from SNU I plan on returning to the U.S and starting an outreach program in an effortto show under-represented groups in my community that becoming a veterinarian is possiblewith universities like SNU, no matter how unlikely it may seem in their world" – he explains.

SNU's commitment extends to faculty recruitment. The university actively seeks to recruit andretain Caribbean faculty members, creating a learning environment that reflects the real world ofveterinary medicine.

This dedication to diversity has garnered international recognition. Recently, a delegation fromthe Jamaica Veterinary Board (JVB) visited SNU in Dominica to assess the program. “I see anemerging university that is propelling change for our region. We are impressed by SNU's focus oninclusion, and that is the message that will be taken back to our board and to the Government ofJamaica” said Dr. Mattocks, a JVB representative. This assessment will help simplify St. NicholasUniversity graduates register as veterinary professionals back home.

"We are working to increase the number of veterinarians willing to serve in under-servedcommunities," says Dr. Naderkhani, President of St. Nicholas University. "We also emphasizeadditional qualities in our future veterinarians, such as compassion for animals. This, in turn, cancontribute to improved veterinary care quality in various low-income communities."

Despite ongoing efforts, SNU acknowledges the persistent challenges regarding diversity andinclusion within the veterinary profession. Systemic barriers, such as limited access toeducational resources and financial constraints, can disproportionately impact students frommany Caribbean backgrounds. The university recognizes the need for collaborative efforts toaddress these issues and works with external organizations to dismantle these barriers.

St. Nicholas University believes that a diverse and inclusive veterinary profession is essential toproviding exceptional care for all animals and their companions. Through its commitment toattracting and supporting Caricom students, fostering a diverse faculty, and partnering withrelevant organizations, the university strives to be a leader in promoting positive change withinthe field.

With the application period for the September 2024 class now open, St. Nicholas Universityinvites passionate Caricom students to explore their veterinary dreams. To apply, visitwww.snu.vet.