A message from the President and Principal

It is undoubtedly the case that we have experienced another year of exceptional events and circumstances, many of historical significance, which have filled our news feeds and had a significant impact on our community.

Whilst it would be remiss not to take time to reflect on how these events have affected our own lives, it is with great pride that we see our community resilient and thriving. We continue to work together to ensure the RVC has much to celebrate.

Our campus developments are well underway. At Hawkshead, we have begun our move into the new research, learning and teaching facilities as part of the £45M project. This new space will ensure we continue to deliver the highest standards of education. It will help us to foster a student-focused learning experience, at the same time as enabling our research to remain at the forefront of veterinary and biomedical sciences. With a focus on collaborative spaces, it is a fitting reminder of what makes university life and the RVC so special – our community.

In a world that can often seem divided, it is our unwavering commitment to collaboration and our people that has ensured we remain as QS ranked #1 Vet School globally for the third consecutive year, and that we retained our HR Excellence Research Award. Working with our peers is a privilege and partnerships at home and abroad have all played their part - from our newest partners at Oxford University to continued friendships at Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. This bringing together of minds and resources ensures the synergy and novelty required for high-quality research and education, bolstering opportunities for our students and staff, alike.

Similarly, with important investments in advanced imaging, our clinicians deliver to a population of patients and clients that come from far and wide, as we seek to push back the boundaries of the possible. There is no doubt that exciting initiatives lie ahead as we develop plans for the next chapter of clinical care at the RVC.  

New buildings, projects and approaches are helping us lead the way, but it is ultimately, you, our extended RVC community who help us to make the difference. Each academic year brings new opportunities to invest in education and the RVC experience. Innovative teaching equipment, life-changing scholarships, bursaries and grants all improve access to our institution. Our alumni help us to inspire talented young minds to join the veterinary and science professions that unite us, overcoming obstacles and exploring new horizons. Your continued compassion, understanding and commitment to the next generation enables them to reach their potential, through their studies, placements, clubs and societies. This RVC Alumni Fund Impact Report 22/23, showcases just what your donations can achieve. Behind every new graduate, is an alumnus - RVC4Life.

With all best wishes,