The New York Thoroughbred Horsemen's Association (NYTHA) has donated $25,000 to support the development of Cornell Equine. This cross-campus initiative, based at Cornell University's College of Veterinary Medicine, aims to enhance equine health and education through collaboration among interdisciplinary teams.
“We are so grateful for the support of NYTHA in helping us bring Cornell Equine to fruition,” says Dr. Mandi de Mestre, professor of equine medicine with the Baker Institute for Animal Health and Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine. “This gift will support us to take the first steps in leveraging the exceptional breadth of skills of leading Cornell faculty to tackle novel research questions in equine health and safety and build leadership capacity for the future.”
“A coordinated equine program will also bolster the University's efforts to recruit and retain the best veterinary students into equine practice through enhanced and coordinated access to educational opportunities, faculty support, and industry.”
Tina Marie Bond, president of NYTHA, stated, “The College of Veterinary Medicine has a rich history of advancing research and clinical outcomes that significantly impact the Thoroughbred industry and equine health. We are proud to support the college as it continues this important work.”
This donation will help launch the first phase of Cornell Equine, which includes a new two-way communication platform designed to engage horse owners, trainers, and veterinarians in discussing key issues. This dialogue will inform future research and educational programs, enhancing the dissemination of findings to improve equine management and clinical services across the country.
The initial phase is currently underway, with plans for it to be accessible to the broader equine community by the summer of 2025.