Arkansas State University (A-State) held a dedication ceremony for its College of Veterinary Medicine’s (CVM) equine barn, named the "Dash Goff Equine Center – Nodouble Barn," on Thursday. The facility is named after Dash Goff, who donated $1 million to support the CVM, which began classes in August.
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Goff, a thoroughbred horse owner and breeder, is the son of Gene Goff, who owned the racehorse Nodouble, a notable Arkansas-bred horse that won multiple races, including the 1968 Arkansas Derby.
During his address at the ceremony, Goff shared how he became involved with the CVM project, expressing curiosity about the need for multiple barns. He emphasized his commitment to building the horse barn after learning about its cost, stating, "I said, ‘I’ll build it!'"
The newly dedicated barn includes eight equine stocks, three stalls, and a storage room for equipment. It is designed to facilitate hands-on learning for students, covering skills such as equine restraint and procedural techniques, as well as hoof care and ultrasound training.
Located near the University Farm and Agricultural Teaching and Research Center off Aggie Road, the barn serves as a practical training ground within a competency-based curriculum, which provides three years of campus education followed by one year of clinical experience.
During the event, Wayne Smith, general manager of Oaklawn Hot Springs, presented the CVM with two checks totaling $10,000, highlighting the importance of local partnerships in advancing veterinary education.
A-State Chancellor Dr. Calvin White remarked on the significance of the new facility, stating, "The Dash Goff Equine Center is a wonderful example of what can happen with an academic mission and a real need come together with a partner who believes in both."
The CVM aims to continue enhancing veterinary training programs to meet the needs of Arkansas and foster relationships with supporters like Dash Goff.