The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) has announced the creation of the Dr. Etienne Côté Endowed Chair in Veterinary Cardiology at the Atlantic Veterinary College (AVC), following a transformative $3 million donation from Sandra Irving, Sarah Irving, the Arthur and Sandra Irving Foundation, and the Arthur L. Irving Family Foundation. This endowed chair aims to enhance clinical training, student education, innovation, and compassionate care for animals and their families.
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UPEI President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Wendy Rodgers, expressed gratitude for the donation, highlighting its potential to elevate veterinary medicine and build upon UPEI and AVC's longstanding reputation for excellence. Dr. Dominique Griffon, Dean of Veterinary Medicine at AVC, noted that the chair marks a significant milestone in the college's history, honoring Dr. Etienne Côté’s achievements in veterinary cardiology and education.
Dr. Côté, a Professor of Veterinary Cardiology, 3M National Teaching Fellow, and Fellow of the American College of Cardiology, has been recognized for his commitment to advancing cardiological care. The endowed chair will facilitate innovative programs and enhance veterinary education, positioning UPEI as a leader in veterinary cardiology.
The initiative is rooted in the Irvings' dedication to education and community impact. Sandra Irving spoke on the influence of her late husband, Arthur, who valued the bond between humans and animals. She emphasized that the chair's establishment reflects Arthur's belief in supporting those who care for animals.
Sarah Irving remarked on Dr. Côté's dedication to animal care and mentoring future veterinary professionals, stating that the endowment would foster new opportunities for students and educators alike. The initiatives envisioned for the chair include advanced training for faculty in clinical communication and the establishment of specialized cardiac imaging programs, aiming to attract global veterinary talent to PEI.
Dr. Etienne Côté, the inaugural holder of the chair, emphasized the transformative potential of the endowment, aiming to elevate the standards of cardiological care for animals and their owners.