(November 18, 2010 Stillwater, OK) – Every now and then there is one person who influences you, makes a profound impact on your life, shows you the big picture, or just does the right thing even when it isn’t the easiest path to take. Dr. Michael D. Lorenz, dean of the Oklahoma State University Center for Veterinary Health Sciences, is that kind of person. As he prepares to step down as dean of his alma mater, his classmates and alumni have established a scholarship to be a lasting tribute in recognition of his commitment to veterinary medicine, colleagues, and veterinary students.

In honor of all that Dr. Lorenz has contributed to the veterinary profession—as a small animal practitioner, an instructor, a researcher, an academic leader/author, and a proponent of veterinary medicine—the Classes of 1960 and 1969 have established the Dean Michael D. Lorenz Endowed Scholarship to benefit future OSU veterinary students.

Not only has Lorenz been an important part of OSU’s academic fabric for nearly 20 years, he has also served at Cornell University, the University of Georgia and Kansas State University. He has served on countless committees as well as with the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association.

This opportunity to honor the life work of Dr. Michael Lorenz comes at a great time for those who give. Cash donations/pledges received by February 26, 2011, may be eligible for a 2:1 match through the Pickens Legacy Match. Pledges received within 5 years may be eligible for a 1.5:1 match. Planned gifts pledged by February 26 may be eligible for a 1:1 match.

The Classes of 1960 and 1969 invite anyone who would like to honor Dr. Michael Lorenz with a one-time donation—that earns maximum benefit for each and every donor—to contact the veterinary center’s Development Office at (405) 744-5630. Matching funds are based on a first come first matched basis and about 70 percent of the Pickens Legacy Match funds have been used to date.

Photo of Dr. Michael D. Lorenz available at Flickr.com

Dr Michael D Lorenz Dean

The Oklahoma State University Center for Veterinary Health Sciences is one of 28 veterinary colleges in the United States and is fully accredited by the Council on Education of the American Veterinary Medical Association. The center’s Boren Veterinary Medical Hospital is open to the public and provides routine and specialized care for small and large animals. It also offers 24-hour emergency care and is certified by the American Animal Hospital Association. For more information, visit www.cvhs.okstate.edu or call (405) 744-7000.

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