For the past several years, Drs. Janver Krehbiel and Frederik Derksen have been hard at work on an ambitious history of the Michigan State College of Veterinary Medicine. The long-term faculty members, now retired, conducted meticulous research and countless interviews, culminating in a 15-chapter book that delves into the College’s leadership, research, diagnostics, and more. As they celebrate the publication of the book, Krehbiel and Derksen took a moment to reflect on their writing process and what they uncovered along the way.
The idea of this history book was born many years ago when we were still faculty. At that time, we discussed the book Veterinary Medicine in Michigan: An Illustrated History written by Dr. Charles Cleon Morrill. The book covered the history of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Michigan State University through the 1970s. We commented that since that time, the College had advanced enormously, and that both of us were proud of having been part of the College’s successes and accomplishments. We agreed that, because of the significance of the College in veterinary medicine and its contributions to research, education, and clinical practice, this progress should be captured before it is lost to history. About three years ago, we reconnected and discussed the same issue. We decided that, not getting any younger, now was the time to get this book written before institutional memory was lost.
Our goal was to maintain a balance between thorough research and engaging storytelling. We wanted to make the history of the College come to life for readers.
We started by first determining the important subjects to be covered. This process resulted in the decision to write 15 chapters on subjects such as college leadership; faculty, staff, and students; facilities; curriculum; research; endowed chairs and professorships; clinical and diagnostic activities; international programs; and the COVID-19 pandemic. We gathered as many documents as were available, including accreditation self-studies, academic program books, lists of graduates and award recipients, publications, and photographs. We then interviewed many faculty, staff, administrators, students, alumni, donors, and friends of the College, who often contributed substantially to the writing of the manuscript. We are very grateful to all of those who generously shared their time and expertise.
Overall, writing this book was truly fun. It allowed us to reconnect with colleagues and friends, and it gave us the chance to revisit the numerous achievements and successes of the College. This was a labor of love.
Having been faculty members in the College for a combined 85+ years, we assumed that we knew most of the important accomplishments of the College. This turned out not to be the case. Our extensive research and interviews revealed many more accomplishments and successes than we originally knew about. The College’s prowess in innovative teaching, clinical activities, and impactful research are truly astonishing and made us even more proud of having been part of this exceptional institution. It also reminded us of the individuals who made the College so successful over the last half-century. Their dedication, passion, and commitment have made the College the success it is today.
First and foremost, we hope that the readers enjoy reading the book and are reminded of their roles in the College’s success. Furthermore, we hope that the readers gain a deep appreciation of the advancements, challenges, and contributions made by the College. Throughout its history, the College has played a pivotal role in shaping veterinary medicine, both locally and globally, influencing not only animal health, but also human health and the environment. Finally, we hope that this book will inspire the current and future College of Veterinary Medicine family to aspire to greatness, reach high, dream big, and understand the infinitude of yet unimagined possibilities.
The College is special because of its people; it has been blessed with faculty, staff, and students whose dedication and hard work have advanced the field of veterinary medicine and have made the world a better place. The College is also special because of its alumni. They have carried MSU’s veterinary legacy far and wide. Their collective impact on the veterinary profession and animal well-being serves as a testament to the enduring strength of the education they received. Finally, the College is fortunate to have such numerous and generous animal lovers, donors, and friends. They have created a margin
of excellence that would not have been possible without their support.
Just before this magazine went to print, we were saddened to learn of Dr. Derksen’s passing. Our College community mourns the loss of this distinguished researcher and leader.
