College of

Veterinary Medicine

 

Merck Animal Health has selected Claudia Pantoja Negron, a second-year Doctor of Veterinary Medicine student and student ambassador at the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine, as a recipient of the 2026 Merck Animal Health Diversity Leadership Scholarship.

The highly competitive national scholarship recognizes veterinary students who demonstrate a sustained commitment to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion within the profession. According to the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges, the scholarship is awarded to students at AAVMC member institutions who actively foster inclusive learning environments and address underrepresentation in veterinary medicine. Each recipient receives $10,000 to support their veterinary education.

“This is a highly competitive set of scholarships,” said Dr. Jennifer Rudd, OSU CVM interim associate dean of academic and student affairs. “Claudia is a student ambassador, actively involved in leadership and enrolled in our dual-degree DVM/CBSC master’s program. We are very proud of her and the work she is doing.”

The Merck Animal Health Diversity Leadership Scholarship honors students who serve as advocates for equity and inclusion and demonstrate leadership in creating a more welcoming and representative veterinary profession. Pantoja Negron’s commitment to service and leadership aligns with the scholarship’s mission.

The award will support Pantoja Negron as she continues her veterinary education and leadership development, contributing to the profession and the communities it serves.