Utah State University (USU) has officially named its new Veterinary Medical Education Building in honor of Thomas and Patricia Willis, recognizing their generous $5 million donation, which includes an endowment for the College of Veterinary Medicine.
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Tom Willis, a native of northern Utah and a USU alum with degrees in agricultural economics and business administration, is the president and CEO of Conestoga Energy Holdings, a renewable fuels and agribusiness company based in Kansas. Both Tom and Patty grew up on cattle ranches, which influenced their commitment to veterinary education and workforce development.
The facility will serve as the central hub for the College of Veterinary Medicine, featuring modern classrooms, laboratories, and clinical training spaces to promote hands-on learning, research, and collaboration. Tom Willis expressed the importance of veterinary medicine to his family, stating, “We saw this as an opportunity to invest in future generations — to help address the shortage of veterinarians while supporting one of the finest veterinary programs in the country.”
Matt White, vice president for advancement and president of the USU Foundation, highlighted the significance of the Willis family's investment, emphasizing their strong ties to agriculture and rural communities. “Tom and Patty Willis are extraordinary supporters of Utah State University and have deep roots in agriculture,” he said.
The new building aims to meet the rising demand for veterinarians, particularly in rural areas where large-animal care is crucial. Utah's agricultural sector contributes about $1.82 billion to the state's economy, making expanded veterinary training increasingly vital. USU plans to enroll up to 80 students per class in its four-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine program to build a sustainable veterinary workforce.
USU President Brad L. Mortensen remarked on the historical significance of this moment, noting it reflects a vision conceived over a century ago. The College of Veterinary Medicine will enroll its first class of students in August 2025, addressing regional workforce needs.
Dirk Vanderwall, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, emphasized the far-reaching impact of the Willis family's donation on the future of veterinary education in Utah and beyond. He stated, “This extraordinary investment will directly impact the future of veterinary medicine in Utah and throughout the region.”
The Thomas and Patricia Willis Veterinary Medical Education Building will serve as a lasting tribute to the commitment of the Willis family to education, agriculture, and the future of veterinary medicine in Utah and the Intermountain West.