Scholarship Grant Supports Students Prioritizing Small Animal Care

JONESBORO – A $50,000 gift from Donna Easley, a longtime animal welfare advocate, will help support Arkansas residents pursuing veterinary education at Arkansas State University.

The Donna K. Easley Small Animal Practice Support Grant Scholarship is designed to support Arkansas students pursuing a veterinary degree with a passion for small animal care and a clear commitment to animal welfare. Easley's gift reflects her desire to support future veterinarians who will advocate for animals and promote accessible care in their communities.

"Veterinary medicine is difficult and can be a thankless profession, full of difficult moments," Easley said. "I firmly believe that giving back is good for the soul, and I hope scholarship recipients will carry that same passion forward and give back when they can."

A resident of Arkansas who has been active in animal rescue for more than 25 years, Easley has worked closely with veterinarians across the state to provide care for rescued animals and promote adoption efforts. Her experiences have inspired her to help future veterinary students who share her values.

"In rescue work, we see the best and worst situations," Easley said. "The wonderful veterinarians I've worked with have helped me focus on the good that can be done for animals and for the families who adopt them."

This scholarship grant will be awarded to a full-time professional student who has been accepted into the College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) and is an Arkansas resident. Preference will be given to students with recorded volunteer hours at animal shelters, rescue organizations or small animal health care organizations.

"We are deeply grateful to Easley for her generous support of our future veterinary students," said Dr. Heidi Banse, dean of the CVM. "Her dedication to animal welfare and education will have a lasting impact on the next generation of veterinary professionals."

Easley hopes the scholarship will inspire students who not only have academic motivation but also compassion, community focus and a commitment to advocating for animals. "To the students who receive this scholarship, thank you for choosing this profession," Easley said. "You've taken the first step, and now is the time to grow your compassion and empathy for those voiceless beings who depend on us for their care."

She also encourages others who share a passion for animal welfare to consider supporting veterinary education at A-State. "If animals are your passion, then investing in veterinary education is one of the best ways to make a difference," she said.

The CVM is expected to open in fall 2026 and will welcome 120 students in its first class. Construction on the modern 56,000-square-foot facility broke ground on March 12.

Additional information about this scholarship and other funding opportunities at A-State is available through the Office of Development at 870-972-3940 or development@AState.edu.