At a time when veterinary medicine is evolving rapidly—spanning everything from rural animal care to global research—Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine used a new stage to spotlight the breadth of that work, honoring five alumni whose careers reflect the profession’s expanding reach.
The college on April 17 introduced its inaugural Dean’s Dinner of Distinction, an event designed to recognize graduates who have demonstrated leadership, innovation and service across veterinary fields. The ceremony, held on Purdue’s campus in West Lafayette, also included a student-facing panel earlier in the day, where honorees shared career insights with aspiring veterinarians.
“These individuals represent the very best of Purdue Veterinary Medicine,” said Bret D. Marsh, the college’s dean. “Their impact has extended far beyond their individual careers as they have shaped communities, advanced animal and human health, and strengthened the profession as a whole.”
The 2026 Distinguished Alumni Award recipients span academia, private practice, industry and diagnostics—fields that together underscore how veterinary medicine intersects with public health, agriculture and companion animal care.
Among them is Nicholas Frank, an internationally recognized expert in equine endocrinology whose career has bridged research and academic leadership. After early work in private equine practice, Frank returned to Purdue for advanced training before holding senior roles at the University of Tennessee and Tufts University. He now serves as dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University, where he oversees academic programs and research initiatives.
Rural veterinary care—often described as a backbone of agricultural communities—was represented by Rob Jackman, who operates a mixed animal clinic in Milroy. Jackman, who grew up in his father’s veterinary practice, has built a career around community engagement and leadership in professional organizations, including the Indiana Veterinary Medical Association.
The awards also highlighted early-career achievement, recognizing Allison Kowlowitz, a 2020 graduate who has quickly distinguished herself in feline medicine and emergency care. Practicing in Indiana, she is pursuing board certification while advancing animal welfare through specialized handling and care techniques.
Industry innovation was embodied by Jennifer Miller, whose career has taken her from clinical practice into animal health research and product development at Elanco. Her work focuses on infectious and zoonotic diseases, reflecting growing attention to the connections between animal and human health.
Completing the group is Duane Murphy, whose decades-long career has centered on diagnostics and animal agriculture. After earning both a veterinary degree and doctorate from Purdue, Murphy led a regional diagnostic laboratory in southern Indiana and later worked within the poultry industry. Even in retirement, he continues to consult on animal health issues.
The event signals a broader effort by Purdue to strengthen alumni ties while exposing students to diverse career pathways. Marsh said the dinner will become an annual tradition, pairing recognition with mentorship opportunities.
Honored Alumni
Nicholas Frank (PU DVM ’93, PhD 2002)
An internationally recognized expert in equine endocrinology and laminitis, Dr. Nicholas Frank has built a career spanning clinical practice, research and academic leadership. After earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from Purdue University, he spent two years in private equine practice before returning to Purdue to complete a residency and PhD. He went on to hold faculty and leadership roles at the University of Tennessee and Tufts University, where he served as chair of the Department of Clinical Sciences and associate dean for academic affairs. In 2023, he was appointed dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State University. His research and leadership continue to influence veterinary education and equine health worldwide.
Rob Jackman (PU DVM ’95)
Dr. Rob Jackman’s career reflects a lifelong commitment to rural veterinary medicine and community service. A Purdue graduate in both agriculture and veterinary medicine, he grew up working in his father’s practice and now operates the Jackman Animal Clinic, a mixed animal practice in Milroy, Indiana. He has been actively involved in professional leadership, including serving as chairman of the Board of Directors of the Indiana Veterinary Medical Association. Known for his dedication to animal agriculture and mentorship, Jackman has played a key role in supporting rural communities and developing the next generation of veterinarians.
Allison Kowlowitz (PU DVM 2020)
Dr. Allison Kowlowitz represents an emerging generation of veterinary leaders. Since graduating from Purdue in 2020, she has worked in both primary care and emergency veterinary settings in Indiana. She is currently pursuing board certification in feline practice and holds multiple credentials, including Fear Free, Low Stress Handling and Feline Friendly certifications. Her work emphasizes patient-centered care and innovation in feline and companion animal medicine.
Jennifer Miller (PU DVM 2008)
Dr. Jennifer Miller has combined clinical expertise with leadership in the animal health industry. After several years in small animal practice, she joined Elanco, where she has contributed to veterinary medical strategy and product development. Her work focuses on infectious and zoonotic diseases, preventative care and strengthening the human-animal bond. Through her efforts, she has helped advance veterinary medicine via innovation, education and industry collaboration.
Duane Murphy (PU DVM ’84, PhD ’94)
Dr. Duane Murphy’s career has been defined by his contributions to veterinary diagnostics and animal agriculture. After earning his veterinary degree from Purdue, he worked in mixed animal practice before returning to pursue a PhD in veterinary pathobiology. He then served as a diagnostic pathologist at Purdue’s Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory and later became director of a regional diagnostic lab in southern Indiana, which he led for nearly 20 years. Murphy also contributed to the poultry industry as a company veterinarian and continues to share his expertise as a consultant in retirement.
