PetSmart Charities Opens Applications for Steve Marton Veterinary Scholarship
PetSmart Charities has announced applications for the Steve Marton Veterinary Scholarship are open. Veterinary students in the US who embody the mission and vision of PetSmart Charities and are committed to careers delivering veterinary care in under-resourced communities are encouraged to apply.
Named for a former long-time chairman of PetSmart Charities’ Board of Directors and passionate animal welfare champion, the award provides up to $50,000 for one year’s tuition to three veterinary students. Winners will be announced in mid-May.
“We are helping create a path for young veterinarians to follow their heart’s work,” said Aimee Gilbreath, President of PetSmart Charities. “So many come into veterinary medicine out of a desire to help animals in need, but overwhelming student debt forces them into careers focused on providing higher-end care. Awarding these scholarships is an important contribution we make to improve access to veterinary care for all — and help ensure students driven to do this work are able to.”
Paige Palomaki, a fourth-year veterinary student at the University of Minnesota was awarded the Steve Marton Scholarship in 2021/2022. She’s also been dedicated to VeTouch (Veterinary Treatment & Outreach for Urban Community Health), the student-run free monthly clinic that provides wellness services in the twin cities area for pets of lower-income families.
“I believe accessible veterinary care is a public health issue, especially since the barriers people face to accessing quality vet care are likely the same barriers they face to receive quality health care for themselves,” said Palomaki.
Current 2nd or 3rd year veterinary students attending a college of veterinary medicine in the US and in good standing may apply for the scholarship.
Scholarship applications are open through March 22, 2022. For more information or to apply here.