Purdue University, the American Veterinary Medical Association, and the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges have teamed up to foster more intercultural awareness in veterinary environments.

The university announced that veterinarians, veterinary technicians, educators, and students can now register for a new online certificate program focusing on diversity and inclusion. The program is designed to build participants' skill sets in interacting successfully with people of all generations, sexual orientations, abilities, genders, races, and ethnicities, the school said in its news release. 

According to Sandra San Miguel, DVM, Ph.D., associate dean for engagement and professor of veterinary clinical sciences, the certification program will endow participants with stronger communication, leadership, teaching and learning, and cultural competency skills.

Willie Reed, DVM, Ph.D., DACVP, DACPV, dean of Purdue's College of Veterinary Medicine, explained why the university believes the new program will positively impact the veterinary community and its patients.

"At the Center of Excellence for Diversity and Inclusion in Veterinary Medicine, we envision an inclusive veterinary profession that is prepared to meet the needs of our increasingly diverse society," Reed said. "We believe that establishing a veterinary workforce where all individuals are inspired, supported, and empowered to achieve their full potential will lead to breakthroughs in animal and public health."

Participants who complete the program will receive a certificate and nine hours of continuing education credits, the university said.

Learn more at the Center for Excellence for Diversity and Inclusion in Veterinary Medicine website.