On August 22, CVMA joined in celebrating the 154 incoming veterinary students who took their professional oath and received their first blue coats at Colorado State University’s annual Oath and Coating Ceremony. Together with family, friends, faculty, and alumni, the Class of 2029 marked the beginning of their four-year journey into the profession.
Among the students was Brianna Sargent Ladner (’29), who proudly became a third-generation veterinarian, following in the footsteps of her grandfather Dwayne Sargent, DVM (’62) and father Brett Sargent, DVM (’87). Both are long-time CVMA members, with Dwayne honored as a life member and Brett set to reach that milestone next year. Their story highlights the enduring legacy of the profession, as well as CVMA’s role in supporting veterinarians across generations.
This year’s class represents 28 states and three countries, with nearly a quarter from rural communities, 22% first-generation college students, and 40% from backgrounds underrepresented in veterinary medicine. Their career goals reach far beyond companion animal practice, with many planning to pursue food animal, equine, research, and public health pathways. These future veterinarians are poised to contribute to the veterinary profession in carrying forward the values of service, science, and compassion that anchor veterinary medicine.
As part of the ceremony, CVMA proudly gifted each student their official name badge, a symbol of belonging to the veterinary community that will be worn on their new coats throughout their training.
Speakers encouraged the class to lean into curiosity, connection, and resilience as they begin this journey. CVMA President Dr. Michelle Larsen reminded students that veterinary medicine thrives on community, and that each student’s unique “why” will help guide them through challenges and sustain their sense of purpose.
As blue coats were slipped onto shoulders and name badges pinned in place, the message was clear: the future of veterinary medicine is both bright and deeply personal. CVMA is honored to stand alongside the Class of 2029 as they take their first steps into the profession.
