Schultz returns to facilitate Mizzou’s veterinary public health program

Loren Schultz, a familiar face in the College of Health Sciences at the University of Missouri, has been reappointed as the veterinary public health emphasis area coordinator for the Department of Public Health. Schultz, who held the same role from 2009 to 2020, brings extensive experience and a renewed vision to a program he helped shape in its early days.

Schultz, an associate teaching professor in both the College of Veterinary Medicine and the College of Health Sciences, said he was inspired to return to the role to honor the legacy of his mentor, Jeff Tyler. Tyler, who died in 2009, was a professor in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Mizzou who was instrumental in founding the veterinary public health program.

“I felt it was important to continue his legacy and keep things moving forward,” Schultz said.

A key focus for Schultz will be fostering collaboration between the College of Veterinary Medicine and the College of Health Sciences. He sees veterinarians as key players in public health — tackling issues from rabies to food safety — and enjoys serving as a bridge between the two disciplines.

“I see my role as a joining the two sides,” he said.

Schultz, who has been at Mizzou for 24 years, believes his deep institutional knowledge and connections will be a major asset. One of Mizzou’s unique selling points is its dual degree program, which allows veterinary students to earn their Master of Public Health concurrently with their DVM. Schultz said he highlights this as a significant advantage for prospective students.

“It’s like buying one degree and getting one 50% off,” he joked.

Looking ahead, Schultz hopes to grow the student body, particularly in the dual-degree program, and ensure the curriculum maintains CEPH accreditation standards. He also hopes to expand opportunities for students through new collaborations, internships and mentorships.

Schultz succeeds Pamela Adkins, an associate professor in the College of Veterinary Medicine, who has served as the veterinary public health coordinator since 2021.