Heidi Banse named dean of A-State veterinary school

Dr. Heidi E. Cox Banse has accepted the role as dean of the forthcoming Arkansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM).

Banse brings a wealth of knowledge and is uniquely prepared for the challenge of bringing Arkansas’ first and only veterinary school to fruition from her time working as associate dean for education strategy at the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine.

“The campus search committee charged with identifying exceptionally qualified candidates produced that and considerably more,” said Dr. Calvin White Jr., provost and executive vice chancellor. “Chancellor Shields and I were extremely impressed by the caliber of applicants, which speaks to the committee’s diligence, the desirability to be a part of this transformational opportunity, and ultimately Dr. Banse’s expertise and administrative experience.”

Banse graduated with a bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine in 2004 and with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 2007, both from Washington State University. She completed an internship in large animal medicine and surgery at the University of Georgia. She then completed a dual residency and doctoral program at Oklahoma State University in equine internal medicine and veterinary biomedical sciences.

“I am thrilled to be given the opportunity to lead the establishment of A-State’s College of Veterinary Medicine. I am looking forward to continuing to develop this school with the amazing team at A-State,” said Banse. “I am grateful to Provost Calvin White, Executive Vice Chancellor for Finance, Administration and COO Len Frey, Founding Dean Glen Hoffsis, Associate Dean John Weale and consultant Jim Lloyd for all of the work they have put in so far in planning and preparation.”

In her new role, Banse will be the chief administrative officer for the CVM. She will oversee the college’s missions, including teaching, research and service. Her primary duties also include oversight of all academic programs associated with the CVM, veterinary residency rotation, managing budgets, and other resources.

While at LSU, Banse led the implementation and redesign of a competency-based curriculum. She is a member of the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges Council on Outcomes-based Veterinary Education and Spectrum of Care Initiative.

A-State’s plan to establish a College of Veterinary Medicine and its outline for the school, including the potential of 40 new faculty and staff positions for the program, have been approved by the Arkansas Higher Education Coordinating Board.

The program of study, in addition to individual program requirements and courses, has been approved by the state board.

Batesville-based Lyon College is also launching a veterinary school in Little Rock.