The University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine alumni are important constituents from graduation and throughout their careers. Striving to foster collaboration and connections, the college welcomes alumni engagement through its Alumni Ambassador program.

“Alumni ambassadors are instrumental in supporting our efforts to inform alumni about college events, activities and reunions,” said Karen Johnson, assistant director of constituent engagement in the College of Veterinary Medicine.

That’s why the college’s Office of Advancement has restructured its ambassador program to offer flexibility for inclusive participation of every member rather than a selected committee.

“We have made it easy for all alumni as well as fourth-year CVM students to participate,” said Johnson. “Simply sign up and select your area of interest — whether it’s social functions, mentoring, or sharing our news on your social platforms. There are no set hours or time commitments, volunteers can set their own level of participation.”

UFCVM alumni have expertise in many diverse practice and research areas that position them to serve as advisors, mentors and leaders. Alumni Ambassador Jacob Vencil, D.V.M., (’13), recipient of the college’s Outstanding Young Alumni Award in 2022, hopes that sharing knowledge and experiences that shaped his career might help others as they approach graduation and career choices.

Vencil gained valuable early experience as an emergency hospital veterinarian working with state-of-the-art equipment on complex medical and surgical cases. He went on to grow his practice, now owning several veterinary clinics on the Northeast Florida coast.

Volunteering as an Alumni Ambassador aligns seamlessly with Vencil’s passion for veterinary medicine and commitment to the University of Florida, he said.

“I spent some of the most pivotal years of my life at the UF College of Veterinary Medicine. I find it fulfilling to mentor and offer support to future generations of veterinarians. I love giving them the confidence to pursue their dreams, knowing that someone like me has bridged the same challenges and achieved success.”

Vencil also has enjoyed participating in recruiting efforts to attract passionate and talented individuals to the program. His engagement with students and fellow alumni is a reminder that he chose this profession to make a difference in the lives of animals and their owners. He encourages others to join him in supporting the institution that laid the foundation for a career in veterinary medicine.

“I’ve been honored to serve on the Distinguished Awards Committee, recognizing my peers who have made significant contributions to the college, our profession, and our communities,” said Vencil. “As a past recipient, it allows me to celebrate the accomplishments of our amazing graduates and see how they are extending our college’s legacy in our profession and their communities.”

“Serving as an alumni ambassador at any level allows you to inspire and support the next generation of veterinarians, and to stay connected with a community that shares your passion,” said Vencil. “The beauty of this program is that it can fit into your schedule, regardless of how busy you are.”

Whether ambassadors can dedicate a few hours a year or more substantial time, every bit helps and is appreciated, added Johnson. The flexibility of volunteering allows individuals to contribute in meaningful ways in balance with other commitments.

“Participation is an individual decision with no minimum requirements,” said Johnson. “We welcome ambassadors to choose their areas of interest and set their own schedule, whether it’s a single event or other service.”

And, joining is easy! To volunteer, members listed in the categories below, sign up on the Office of Advancement website by clicking on Become an Alumni Ambassador. Members will be notified of volunteer opportunities in the areas they selected.

Alumni Ambassador membership is open to all D.V.M., M.S., and Ph.D. graduates of the college as well as former off-shore students, interns, residents and fellows who completed their clinical or research training at the college. Students in their senior year become eligible for membership 30 days before graduation.

Members can choose as many of the following areas as they would like when registering online:

• Distinguished Awards Committee: Help identify those making a difference in veterinary medicine through service, practice, or research.
• Community Building & Engagement: Build lasting connections between members of the UF CVM community (faculty, staff, students, and house officers) and with past, present, and future generations of Veterinary Medical professionals.
• Fundraising: Help promote fundraising efforts of the college.
• Mentorship: Help us in engage/mentor alumni and future alumni at all stages of their veterinary medical career. Serve as a resource for guidance and conversation.
• Recruitment: Work with our academic admissions committee to help recruit the best and brightest candidates, including K-12 schools.
• Social Functions: Help to find the most effective ways of communication with college alumni. Assist in educating about the college’s Alumni Association and assist in promoting college events.
• Other: What passion or expertise can you share?

For more information about the Alumni Ambassador program, please scan the QR code to visit bit.ly/UFCVMAlumniAmbassadors or email CVMAlumniAffairs@vetmed.ufl.edu.