St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine (SVM) recently welcomed veterinary professionals, alumni, and SVM students to the campus in Grenada for the annual VetBolus Conference. The event drew approximately 60 SVM alumni back to campus for several days of advanced learning, professional exchange, and reconnection with their alma mater.
This year marked the third consecutive year the conference has been hosted at SGU, reinforcing the University’s role as a hub for veterinary medical education and alumni engagement.
View VetBolus Conference 2025 Facebook Album
Alumni return to share knowledge and insights
For many attendees, the conference also served as a homecoming, including featured speaker Dr. Aki Otomo, a 2017 graduate of SGU’s School of Veterinary Medicine. She is a veterinary surgical oncologist specializing in small animal surgery and surgical oncology where she most recently worked in private practice at a specialty veterinary hospital in Cincinnati, Ohio. Dr. Otomo will be returning to academia this spring as a clinical assistant professor of small animal surgery and surgical oncology at Iowa State University.
During her visit to the Chancellor Charles Modica Campus, Dr. Otomo shared her clinical expertise with practicing veterinarians and current SVM students while witnessing firsthand the continued growth of the University.
“Returning to SGU was incredibly rewarding,” said Dr. Otomo. “Walking through the campus, I could see how much the School of Veterinary Medicine has grown—from new laboratories to upgraded teaching spaces and expanded clinical facilities. It’s inspiring to see how these advancements are shaping the next generation of veterinarians and supporting students at every stage of their training.”
Her observations echo the University’s significant recent investments in infrastructure. SGU’s fall 2025 campus upgrades introduced modern learning environments, advanced simulation technologies, and improved study and collaboration spaces—updates designed to elevate the student experience and meet the evolving demands of veterinary medical education.
Students gain guidance and connections from alumni
A key highlight at the end of the conference was the student–alumni networking social, which provided an opportunity for current students to engage directly with graduates working across a range of veterinary disciplines. Organized by the School of Veterinary Medicine Alumni Association (SVMAA) in collaboration with the student Veterinary Business Management Association (VBMA), the event brought together approximately 37 SVM students and 13 alumni to exchange career advice, professional insights, and mentorship.
View Student-Alumni Networking Social Instagram Reel
Luke Griffin, a Term 5 SVM student and president of the VBMA, emphasized the value of the experience.
“Connecting with alumni who once stood where we are now was incredibly valuable. The event gave us real-world insight, meaningful advice, and a chance to build the kind of professional relationships that shape our careers,” Griffin said.
Showcasing SGU pride and alumni impact
Founded in early 2022 by SVM alumnus Aaron Spacher, DVM ’17, VetBolus was created to deliver practical and engaging continuing education for veterinary professionals and leaders in locations around the world. Since then, the conference has maintained its strong ties to SGU, with Dr. Spacher and many speakers proudly returning as alumni—continuing to reflect the University’s global veterinary network and its culture of giving back.
Tara Paterson, DVM ’03, president of the School of Veterinary Medicine Alumni Association (SVMAA), noted the importance of seeing alumni return to campus in leadership and teaching roles.
“Events like VetBolus showcase the strength of the SGU community,” said Dr. Paterson. “Watching our graduates return as experts, mentors, and leaders reinforces the lifelong connection they maintain with this institution and the island of Grenada, as well as the impact SGU alumni continue to have on the veterinary profession worldwide.”
Looking ahead to 2026
Following another successful year, plans are already underway for the next VetBolus Conference in Grenada. The 2026 event will continue the tradition of delivering high-quality continuing education while fostering meaningful connections between alumni, professionals, and students.
For details about VetBolus Grenada 2026 visit: https://vetbolus.com/grenada-2026/
