Lyon College unveils vet school architecture
by February 10, 2025 5:58 pm 659 views
Lyon College and the city of Cabot unveiled architectural renderings for the Lyon College School of Veterinary Medicine and Cabot Animal Support Services during an event Monday (Feb. 10) at the Cabot Justice Center.
The new campus will feature facilities designed to support veterinary education and community animal care services. Groundbreaking is set for later this spring, with the first class of students expected to begin in fall 2026, pending accreditation by the Council on Education (COE) of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).
Lyon College hosted a consultative site visit from the COE in November 2023 and is awaiting the scheduling of a comprehensive review. The proposed program plans to admit 120 students annually.
“This is an exciting day for Cabot and the state of Arkansas,” said Cabot Mayor Ken Kincade. “The Lyon College School of Veterinary Medicine will enhance education and animal health care while showcasing the potential of public-private partnerships. This project will have lasting benefits for our community and the veterinary field.”
In December, Lyon College and the city formalized their collaboration through a lease agreement outlining plans for a facility that integrates academic training with community-based animal services.
“Lyon College is proud to work with the City of Cabot to bring this visionary project to life,” said Lyon College President Dr. Melissa Taverner. “The School of Veterinary Medicine will prepare students to address critical needs in their communities while advancing the veterinary profession. We’re particularly inspired by the enthusiasm of our current and future Pre-Veterinary and Animal Sciences students at Lyon College, who represent the bright future of this field.”
The Cabot Animal Support Services center will be co-located on the campus, offering animal health care services to the community while providing students with hands-on learning opportunities.
“This collaboration is an exciting step forward for animal care and education,” said Mike Wheeler, director of animal services for the City of Cabot. “The Cabot Animal Support Services center will expand access to compassionate care while serving as a training hub for future veterinary professionals.”
Dr. Eleanor Green, founding dean of the Lyon College School of Veterinary Medicine, said the program’s commitment to innovation and community engagement.
“The Lyon College School of Veterinary Medicine will combine academic excellence with real-world experience to create a model for veterinary training,” said Green. “By partnering with Cabot, we’re building a program that will benefit both students and the community.”
Cabot Director of Economic Development Alicia Payseno said the project will strengthen the city’s reputation as a leader in education and health care.
“This initiative is a major investment in Cabot’s future,” said Payseno. “The Lyon College School of Veterinary Medicine and the Cabot Animal Support Services center will drive economic growth, improve access to health care, and position our city as a hub of opportunity.”