St. George’s University School of Veterinary Medicine celebrated a major milestone for the Class of 2026 on May 17, as more than 250 graduates were awarded their Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degrees in a vibrant commencement ceremony.
Held at the Infosys Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York City, the event marked the culmination of years of rigorous study, hands-on training, and unwavering dedication; launching a new generation of veterinarians ready to make an impact on animal and public health around the world.
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View SVM Commencement Ceremony
Celebrating a global community of veterinarians
Opening the ceremony, SGU provost Dr. Mark Clunes welcomed graduates and guests while highlighting the dedication required to reach this milestone.
“As you join more than 3,000 fellow alumni of the SGU School of Veterinary Medicine, know that this University family is there for you—worldwide,” Dr. Clunes said. “With deep pride in all you have achieved so far, and with eager anticipation of the difference you will make in the years to come, I congratulate you, the Class of 2026.”
A mission rooted in compassion and care
Addressing the audience, SGU founding chancellor Dr. Charles R. Modica emphasized the broader purpose that connects the graduates’ work to global health and wellbeing.
“St. George’s University is proud to have been part of your development as professionals dedicated to easing the suffering of both people and animals,” said Dr. Modica. “We know that you will carry forward that mission with compassion, skill, and purpose as you enter this noble profession.”
Recognizing academic achievement and impact
Building on that message, interim dean of the School of Veterinary Medicine Dr. Satesh Bidaisee reflected on both the graduates’ perseverance and the continued growth of SGU’s veterinary medical program.
“This diploma represents far more than an education, it reflects the knowledge earned, resilience developed, and purpose you have committed to through years of dedication,” Dr. Bidaisee said. “As you enter one of the world’s most noble professions, you carry with you the responsibility to protect animal health and welfare, conserve animal resources, promote public health, and advance medical knowledge from a local to global perspective.”
The new graduates join a strong alumni network with more than 3,000 SGU-trained veterinarians who have practiced in 49 US states and 16 countries worldwide.*
Encouraging mentorship and lifelong connection
Offering perspective from the alumni community, Tara Paterson, DVM ’03, president of the SVM Alumni Association and associate dean of fourth year clinical training, encouraged graduates to remain connected to the profession and support one another.
“The experiences you shared in Grenada are more than memories, they have shaped you into the veterinarians you are today and connect you as part of a close-knit SGU community,” Dr. Paterson said. “As you move forward, I encourage you to stay connected to your SGU family, wear your alma mater badge with pride, and continue building on the legacy of excellence that defines our alumni.”
A student voice looks to the future
Representing her classmates, SVM Class of 2026 speaker Daphne Harris, DVM ’26, shared reflections on the collective journey from aspiring students to practicing veterinarians. Originally from Memphis, TN, Dr. Harris was an active leader and mentor throughout her time at SGU.
“Every challenge and setback we faced had a purpose in shaping who we are as veterinarians today,” Dr. Harris said. “Moving forward, I hope we hold on to our ‘why’ and remember that while becoming a doctor is an incredible honor, it does not define everything we are. The compassion we show others must also extend to ourselves.”
Following graduation, Dr. Harris will begin her career in small animal general practice in Ocala, FL.
* Based on number of students who have completed the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) program from 2003-2025.
