Lakehead University has received a significant donation to support the university’s and the University of Guelph’s Ontario Veterinary College’s new collaborative veterinary program.
Kim and Stug Lang are donating $10 million towards the program aimed at alleviating a veterinarian shortage in the region.
The gift will be used to help fund the construction of an animal education facility at Lakehead University’s Thunder Bay campus.
The investment is the largest philanthropic contribution in Lakehead’s history.
“When faced with a large-scale crisis like northern Ontario’s veterinarian shortage, we must be innovative when seeking solutions,” said Lakehead’s President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Gillian Siddall. “Kim and Stu Lang are visionaries, the innovative nature of this collaborative, solutions-based approach between Lakehead and Guelph universities spoke to their interests and values.”
“We are deeply grateful for this groundbreaking gift that will move Lakehead University into a new chapter in our 60-year history of serving northern Ontario’s social and economic needs.”
The university and the Langs have also announced that a name has been selected for the new facility.
Gakina Awesiinyag, from the Anishinaabemowin language, which translates to All Animals (Place For).
“As animal lovers and long-time supporters of many animal health programs, including the Ontario Veterinary College, we are delighted to support Lakehead University’s role in expanding access to veterinary medicine throughout northern Ontario,” said Kim Lang. “When considering a name for the new building that will house animals and educate future generations of veterinarians, it was important to us to choose an inclusive name that honours the land. We were grateful to receive guidance from Indigenous Elders from the north to choose this beautiful, fitting name.”
The universities already have an agreement in place to deliver the new Collaborative Doctor of Veterinary Medicine Program that will recruit and train 20 students from communities in northern Ontario each year.
The first group of students will begin their studies this fall and complete all four years in Guelph while Lakehead constructs its new facilities.
Construction begins this summer.
Starting in 2027, incoming students will divide their time between Lakehead University and the University of Guelph to complete the four-year program.
While enrolled in the program, students will participate in experiential learning opportunities and placements with local veterinarians in the north and complete core courses tailored to the unique needs of northern practices.
