By Scout Nelson
The University of Nebraska–Lincoln (UNL) is now accepting applications for its Nebraska Elite 11 Veterinarian Program, a scholarship initiative designed to expand the number of veterinarians serving livestock producers in rural Nebraska. The program combines financial assistance with hands-on learning to build a strong foundation for students pursuing careers in animal or veterinary sciences.
Administered through UNL’s College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR), the Elite 11 program is open to incoming freshmen who are Nebraska residents with a demonstrated passion for production animal health and a commitment to serving agricultural communities across the state.
“The Nebraska Elite 11 Veterinarian Program exemplifies our commitment to supporting Nebraska students who are passionate about production animal health and rural communities,” said Tom Burkey, interim dean of CASNR.
“By providing financial support and hands-on learning opportunities, this program helps prepare the next generation of veterinarians to serve livestock producers across our state — strengthening both Nebraska’s agricultural future and the vitality of its rural communities.”
The scholarship structure supports students throughout their academic journey. Up to 20 freshmen will receive the Nebraska Production Animal Health Scholarship, covering half of tuition for the first two years. Of those, up to 13 students may receive a continuation award covering full tuition for their junior and senior years.
After completing the Nebraska Aspiring Production Animal Veterinarians Program, 11 students—known as the “Elite 11”—will receive full tuition and fees for UNL’s Professional Program in Veterinary Medicine. In return, recipients commit to practicing as production-animal veterinarians in Nebraska for eight years after graduation.
Applications are due February 2, and eligibility is limited to Nebraska residents admitted to CASNR with plans to major in animal science or veterinary science. Full details and submission links are available at http://casnr.unl.edu/elite11.
This program reflects Nebraska’s ongoing investment in strengthening rural veterinary care and supporting the state’s agricultural future.
Photo Credit:nebraska-extenstion
Categories: Nebraska, Education