After earning his veterinary degree from MSU in 1950, Albert C. Dehn returned to his hometown of Abbotsford, Wisconsin, where he practiced for his entire career, primarily treating the cows on local dairy farms. Fondly known as “Doc” to his friends and neighbors, Dehn also served on the board of the local bank and spent his life giving back to his community from his place firmly outside the spotlight.
Dehn had tremendous respect for his alma mater and designated the gift in his will because he felt there was no higher philanthropy than to name an endowed chair. A lifelong proponent of education and enrichment, Dehn spearheaded the creation of a charitable foundation in Abbotsford, the mission of which was to support community projects that would make life better for its citizens. Jennifer Jakel, a longtime neighbor and friend of Dehn’s, believes he would be proud to see his life’s work culminate in a gift that will impact even more lives, far beyond his hometown.