For the VanVrankens, this philanthropy is personal; a 1974 graduate of the College, Pete knows firsthand how support at the start of one’s journey can shape an entire career. Through her own experiences with the veterinary community, Sharon has seen how Michigan State touches animals, students, and families alike. This year, their decades-long dedication was honored with their recognition as the 2025 CVM Philanthropists of the Year.

The VanVrankens’ generosity has touched every corner of the College. From helping modernize spaces at the Veterinary Medical Center to providing essential tools for students, their gifts have enhanced both education and patient care. One of their most cherished traditions is ensuring that every incoming DVM student begins their veterinary journey with a high-quality stethoscope—a gift that serves as both a practical tool and a symbol of support.

“I liked the idea of giving all the students one really good piece of equipment,” says Pete. “It also gives me a chance to address the first-year students and say to them, ‘I’ve been where you’re sitting before. I’ve had the anxieties that you do. Just try to relax and take care of each other as the school years go by.’”

Scholarships funded by the VanVrankens have also provided vital support for DVM students, easing financial burdens and enabling talented individuals to pursue veterinary careers. One such student was Ashley VanderBroek, who received the VanVrankens’ scholarship more than a decade ago. It was the first scholarship she had ever received, and it played a pivotal role in allowing her to follow her passion for large animal medicine.

Now an assistant professor in MSU’s Large Animal Clinical Sciences department, VanderBroek experienced a full-circle moment when she cared for one of the VanVrankens’ horses more than ten years after their scholarship first helped her pursue her dream. “It was a cool situation where I was able to provide a service back to them after the scholarship they had given me encouraged me to stay in equine medicine,” says VanderBroek.

A small animal veterinarian for over 50 years, Pete continues to practice three days a week at Dickman Road Veterinary Clinic, the hospital he founded and grew into a thriving multi-doctor practice. The VanVrankens are also the founders of three businesses, including The Scoop Pet Food Store, Voyager Dog Food Co., and Veterinary Apparel Company—each born from a desire to improve pet health, provide reliable information, and serve the profession.

Meanwhile, Sharon has long been engaged with the veterinary community through her own experiences and support. She has frequently relied on MSU’s Veterinary Medical Center for the care of her horses, witnessing the depth of expertise, the dedication of students and faculty, and the College’s role in serving the community. “I’m an adopted MSU alum through Pete,” says Sharon. “I’ve seen the foundation Michigan State gave him—how it shaped his purpose, his practice, and his passion for this profession. To now be able to help students benefit from that same foundation is really meaningful.”

“We feel Pete and Sharon’s generosity all across this College,” says Kim Dodd, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine. “Whether you’re walking down the halls of the Veterinary Medical Center and seeing the ward they helped renovate, or talking to students who received scholarships, their support touches every aspect of our mission. But I think one of the things I value most is their friendship. Pete and Sharon bring a lot of joy, laughter, and inspiration.”

The VanVrankens were named CVM Philanthropists of the Year at the Celebration of Generosity on September 25, 2025. For Pete and Sharon, the recognition is an honor, but the true reward lies in knowing they are building a stronger veterinary community. “We have benefited a lot from what Michigan State has done. And so, we try to pay that back,” says Pete. “That’s the big thing. The College is there when I need it, and we’ll be there for them.”