Community Collaboration

Hands-on learning begins on day one. Early in the curriculum, students engage directly with local shelters and community programs, where they encounter real-world challenges and the responsibilities of service. Collaborations with organizations such as the Jacksonville Humane Society and Clay County Animal Services provide opportunities to learn about shelter medicine, population health, and community outreach. These experiences, and others like them, build strong clinical foundations while shaping communication skills and a spirit of compassion in practice. 

Advanced clinical training is built on trusted partnerships that extend the classroom into the community. Through the Office of Clinical Relations, LMU-OPCVM maintains a growing network of veterinary practices, hospitals, and service providers that enrich the clinical curriculum. Among these, Black Creek Veterinary Hospital is playing a central role in developing our ambulatory large animal service, creating opportunities for students to gain meaningful experience in equine and livestock care. Across small animal, large animal, and specialty settings, our affiliates ensure that students are prepared to meet the diverse demands of veterinary medicine. As our program expands, we look forward to welcoming additional clinical partners who wish to take part in training the next generation of veterinarians. 

Collaboration drives discovery, and LMU-OPCVM partners with research institutions and diagnostic laboratories to expand opportunities for innovation. The Bronson Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (BADDL) provides a foundation for applied research in disease detection, surveillance, and prevention, while our partnership with Jacksonville University connects veterinary education with marine science, environmental studies, and public health. These collaborations create avenues for students and faculty to contribute to the broader field of One Health, and we invite additional research partners who are committed to advancing veterinary discovery. 

Our collaborations extend beyond clinical and research environments into the broader fabric of Northeast Florida. Partnerships with organizations such as the Clay County Cattlemen’s Association connect students with agricultural leaders and producers, strengthening their understanding of herd health, production medicine, and the vital role of agriculture in community well-being. Connections with Clay County Schools allow us to provide educational programming for K–12 students while also giving our DVM students the chance to develop as teachers and leaders. Together, these opportunities build well-rounded professionals while deepening our ties to the communities we serve. 

In addition to established collaborations, LMU-OPCVM values innovative approaches to engagement. Local businesses, nonprofits, and regional organizations play an important role in supporting our mission through sponsorships, educational programming, and co-developed events. From sponsoring local agricultural fairs to partnering on community health initiatives, these collaborations create unique experiences for students while amplifying our shared impact. We welcome creative partnerships that expand opportunities for our students and strengthen the communities we call home.