Imagine Lincoln Public Charter School recently hosted a unique event titled “Believe and Belong in Veterinary Medicine,” designed to inspire scholars and introduce them to the world of veterinary careers. Led by Dr. Nicole Bruno, a small animal veterinarian from Houston, Texas, the event aimed to broaden scholars’ understanding of veterinary medicine, showcasing opportunities beyond traditional roles in caring for cats and dogs.
Dr. Bruno, a proud graduate of Tuskegee University, shared her journey in veterinary medicine. She emphasized the importance of diversity within the field, which is the least diverse of all medical professions in the U.S. “I want these scholars to truly believe that they can belong in veterinary medicine,” Dr. Bruno said. She credits her time at Tuskegee, one of the only historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) with a veterinary school, for showing her that a career in this field was possible —and she now wants to inspire scholars as young as 13 to believe the same.
The event, part of Imagine Lincoln’s Pathway Event Program, exposed Lincoln’s 8th-grade scholars to veterinary medicine, expanding their career horizons. Scholars learned about not only becoming vets but also other essential roles in the veterinary field.
“This event reflects Imagine Lincoln’s commitment to providing scholars with the knowledge and opportunities they need to become progressive global leaders,” said Ronald Richardson II. “By connecting scholars with professionals like Dr. Bruno, the school continues to support its scholars in exploring a wide range of career possibilities.”