BROOKVILLE, NY — Governor Kathy Hochul announces the ribbon cutting of Long Island University's (LIU) College of Veterinary Medicine Learning Center at its Long Island University Post campus in Brookville, Nassau County. Long Island University invested $53 million to establish the College of Veterinary Medicine, which includes the announcement of the new $26 million Veterinary Learning Center.

This 33,100-square-foot facility serves as the anchor of the College of Veterinary Medicine and will prepare students enrolled in the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program with a comprehensive education and real-world skills through a four-year program. Supported by New York State funding of $12.75 million, the College of Veterinary Medicine is the only veterinary program recognized by the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education in the New York metropolitan area and one of only four veterinary schools in the Northeast United States.

"New York State's investment in Long Island University College of Veterinary Medicine underscores our commitment to meeting the growing demand for state-of-the-art veterinary services and ensuring New Yorkers have access to education and training for the career path of their choice," Hochul said. "These new facilities, equipped with the latest technology and staffed by experienced educators, will provide students with the hands-on experience they need to become competent and compassionate veterinary professionals who can safeguard animal health and preserve the environment."

The Learning Center offers hands-on learning experiences through clinical rotations and internships, allowing students to gain practical skills and knowledge in a variety of settings. The facility features student-faculty research laboratory spaces comprising large lecture theaters, classrooms, clinical skills laboratories, seminar rooms, and a small animal simulation suite including examination rooms, surgical suites, and a medical imaging center. Students will gain real-world experience in surgery, diagnostic support, intensive care, and other areas critical for successful veterinary practice through external partnerships with more than 75 affiliates, including primary care and specialty clinics, zoos, research laboratories, shelters, veterinary industry leaders, and other universities.

"LIU's College of Veterinary Medicine stands out as a beacon of how education and research can converge to bring about positive change for animals and enhance the health and prosperity of our communities," said Hope Knight, Empire State Development President, CEO, and Commissioner. New York's strategic investment in innovation and education is evident in the Veterinary Learning Center's cutting-edge curriculum, research, and community partnerships that will work together to transform students into agents of change in the field of veterinary medicine."