Washington, D.C., October 1, 2025– The American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) and Chewy Health are now accepting applications for the 2026 cohort of the Chewy Veterinary Leaders Program. The program recognizes second-year veterinary students from underserved groups who have shown an interest in and affinity for growing leadership capabilities.
Fifteen students will be selected for the 2026 cohort, and each will receive a $20,000 scholarship, distributed directly to their institutions during the Fall 2026 semester.
“Our partnership with Chewy Health for the Chewy Veterinary Leaders Program is helping to shape the future of veterinary medicine by empowering students who bring fresh perspectives, resilience, and a deep commitment to service,” said Ted Mashima, DVM, Interim Chief Executive Officer at the AAVMC. “When we invest in these emerging leaders, we’re not only opening doors for individuals—we’re transforming the profession to be more inclusive, innovative, and reflective of the communities we serve.”
Beyond financial assistance, the program provides participants with valuable professional development resources, including monthly conversations facilitated by MentorVet and an in-person leadership summit hosted at Chewy’s headquarters in Florida. After graduation, participants receive a six-month mentorship and professional development curriculum and access to the Chewy Veterinary Leaders alumni network.
“This program goes beyond scholarships. It’s about building a supportive pathway for the next generation of veterinary leaders,” said Mita Malhotra, President of Chewy Health. “Through mentorship, leadership training and building a strong sense of community, we are proud to provide students with the skills and confidence they need to help shape the future of veterinary medicine.”
“This opportunity has been such a blessing, not only through the generous scholarship support, but also through the leadership conference at Chewy HQ where I gained invaluable professional development, leadership training, mentorship, and lifelong connections with amazing veterinary students and veterinary professionals. I am so grateful to Chewy Health for investing in the next generation of veterinarians and I cannot wait to see what the future brings!” Kennedi Robinson, 2025 Chewy Veterinary Leader and veterinary student at Purdue University.
Applications and eligibility information are available at awards.aavmc.org. The deadline for applications is November 4, 2025.
To schedule an interview with a member of the AAVMC team, contact AAVMC Media Relations. Find more news in our Newsroom.
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About AAVMC
The American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) advances the health and wellbeing of humans, animals, and the environment by strengthening veterinary medical education. Working with its member institutions at accredited colleges and schools worldwide, AAVMC develops educational standards, facilitates research collaboration, and supports curriculum innovation to prepare veterinarians who can address critical challenges, including emerging zoonotic diseases, food safety and security, antimicrobial resistance, and the changing role of animals in society.
About Chewy Health
Chewy’s mission is to be the most trusted and convenient online destination for pet parents and partners everywhere. Chewy Health embodies this spirit with our unparalleled commitment to pets and the people who tirelessly care for them. In response to veterinary care challenges and evolving pet parent needs, Chewy Health is pioneering digital solutions for simple, efficient operations. This leads to more time for hands-on pet care for healthier and happier pets. It’s all part of the commitment at Chewy Health to improve the health of every pet by helping to make veterinary professionals’ jobs easier.
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