UC Davis Receives $75 Million Donation for Veterinary Medicine Expansion

Chiao and Hao’s philanthropic contribution will also support scholarships, translational medicine between animals and humans, and programs for those facing financial difficulties in accessing veterinary care. Their commitment to academic hospitals and animal welfare is well-established, with Hao serving as the chairman and managing partner of Silver Lake, a global technology investment firm, and as vice chair of the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Board of Directors.

“This is a pivotal time to expand support for UC Davis and its extraordinary veterinarians — true everyday heroes,” they stated. “We deeply value the advancement of healthcare for every type of animal and believe research in veterinary medicine and human life sciences will be increasingly interconnected.”

Chancellor Gary S. May highlighted the transformative nature of the gift, indicating it will create new avenues for veterinary health. Scheduled for completion in 2030, the new small animal hospital will rank among the most advanced veterinary medical centers globally, forming a crucial part of the school’s $750 million expansion project. The facility will feature state-of-the-art equipment and expanded specialty areas, including oncology, orthopedic surgery, cardiology, and neurology/neurosurgery. It will also integrate innovative technologies like artificial intelligence to enhance care for both animals and humans.

Upon completion, the hospital is expected to increase the school's capacity to care for up to 25,000 additional animals annually, contributing to alleviating a critical shortage of veterinary clinicians and specialists. The current facility, the William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, serves around 50,000 animals each year.

Dr. Mark D. Stetter, dean of the Weill School of Veterinary Medicine, commended the impact of the gift, stating, “Every day, we see how veterinary care matters. Our mission is to improve health for animals, people, and our planet.”

Chiao and Hao’s donation will also accelerate innovative research in translational medicine, which aims to benefit both animal and human health. Collaborations between UC Davis and UCSF have led to significant advancements, including lifesaving treatments for conditions like feline hydrocephalus and pioneering surgical methods for spina bifida in bulldogs.

Financial support for veterinary students is another critical aspect of the donation. The average debt for new veterinary school graduates in 2025 was reported at $174,484, which can deter prospective students. This gift enhances existing scholarship funds aimed at allowing students to pursue veterinary careers without overwhelming financial burdens.

To meet California's growing workforce needs, UC Davis plans to increase enrollment from 600 to 800 veterinary students per class and expand its residency program from approximately 140 to 190 positions. Increasing scholarship funds is vital in accommodating this expansion and supporting students financially.

The donation will also contribute to programs assisting pet owners in financial distress, ensuring access to veterinary care. The Weill School of Veterinary Medicine has long advocated for equitable care, operating student-led clinics and various compassionate care funds.

As the new hospital is built, Dean Stetter expressed optimism for the future, stating, “Thanks to Kathy Chiao and Ken Hao’s support, our school will continue making advancements in veterinary health, benefitting all species.”