The Office of Student Engagement and Success (SES) supports students throughout their journey at the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine, from exploring veterinary medicine and applying to the College to navigating academics, building professional connections, and preparing for their careers. The team coordinates pre-veterinary advising, admissions, academic support, student life, career preparation, and connections to campus resources, helping create a welcoming environment where students can learn, grow, and succeed.

SES brings together staff with expertise in admissions, academic coaching, curriculum coordination, and student engagement.

Connecting Students with the Support They Need

Whether students are looking for academic guidance, opportunities to get involved, career preparation, or help navigating the admissions process, the SES team works to connect them with the resources and people who can help. Together, they support students throughout their time at the College and help foster an engaged, connected, and supportive CVM community.

Explore Student Resources

Find information and resources to support your journey at the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine, including academic calendars and curriculum, financial aid and scholarships, student organizations, research opportunities, and more. Whether you're looking for ways to get involved or need a helpful resource, start here.

Dr. Stephan Carey, DVM, PhD, DACVIM Associate Dean for Student Engagement and Success

Dr. Carey first came to MSU in 2000 as a rotating intern and has remained a dedicated advocate for students, house officers, and the value of mentorship throughout his career. He completed his residency and PhD at MSU and joined the faculty in 2008. Before becoming associate dean, he served as associate chairperson of Small Animal Clinical Sciences and a professor of internal medicine, teaching and mentoring students, interns, and residents. His research examines respiratory disease in companion animals and children, including the effects of air pollutants on the airways.

As associate dean, Dr. Carey leads the SES Office, bringing together admissions, academic support, student services, and campus partnerships to strengthen the student experience and help students thrive.

Student Life and Engagement

Lisa Kelley, MBA Assistant Director of Student Life and Engagement

Lisa leads the Student Life and Engagement team, overseeing student activities, club events, and career services. She helps create opportunities for students to connect with one another, engage in the College community, and prepare for their professional lives.

Student Academic Success

Alexis Tully Assistant Director of Student Academic Success

Alexis supports the Committee on Student Performance (CSP) and leads the Student Academic Success Team in both the preclinical and clinical phases of the curriculum.

Carrie Pederson Academic Coach

Carrie provides individualized academic coaching to help students develop effective learning strategies and reach their academic goals. Working one-on-one with students helps them identify challenges, explore new study approaches, and strengthen skills such as time management, organization, and self-motivation. Her support helps students build confidence, improve academic performance, and develop sustainable habits for long-term success.

Sarah Strank Curriculum Coordinator

Sarah coordinates key aspects of the preclinical student experience, including student absences, classroom support scheduling, and exam proctor scheduling. She also coordinates the management of student accommodations.

Office of Admissions

Katie Cauley, MA Assistant Director of Admissions

Katie leads the Admissions team and coordinates recruitment, scholarships, admissions, yield, and retention activities. She helps ensure these efforts are carried out effectively and align with the College’s vision and priorities.

Arturo Almanza III, MA Admissions Data and Scholarship Counselor

Arturo leads DVM recruitment activities for prospective applicants, supports the admissions and selection process, and assists with scholarship awarding for current and prospective DVM students. Arturo also provides financial aid counseling.

Jessica Johnson Admissions Counselor

Jessica supports the admissions cycle through operational coordination, applicant communications, work in the Veterinary Medical College Application Service (VMCAS), and course reviews for applicants who have completed coursework at other institutions.

Undergraduate Programs and Pre-Veterinary Advising

Helen Mayer, MA, LVT Specialist Advisor, Undergraduate Programs

Helen advises prospective applicants to both the Pre-Veterinary Medicine and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine programs. She helps students explore their pathways toward veterinary medicine and understand the steps involved in preparing to apply to the College.

Support for the Student Engagement and Success Office

Gregory Rambat Office Coordinator

Gregory coordinates the day-to-day operations of SES, helping keep office activities organized and ensuring the team has the administrative support needed to serve students and applicants.