Veterinary Science Certificate Program Promotes Early Steps on Career Path
March 26, 2026 – AgriLife Extension program guides students with hands-on training and coursework
March 23, 2026 – by Kaydee Free
Rural communities across the U.S. face a growing shortage of veterinary professionals, creating challenges for pet owners, livestock producers and agriculture industries.
For Steven Perez, Evelyn Arnold and Thomas Gee, the path to becoming veterinarians started in different places but took shape through the same program: the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service Veterinary Science Certificate Program, VSCP.
Through hands-on training, coursework and career exploration opportunities, the program is helping students across Texas build the skills and confidence needed to pursue careers in veterinary medicine.
Different paths and inspirations
Perez, a junior in the Texas A&M College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Department of Animal Science from Rio Grande City, first recognized the need for veterinary care in his South Texas community while raising and showing Beefmaster cattle through Texas 4-H. The limited access to veterinary care locally inspired him to pursue veterinary medicine and apply for the program to earn his veterinary assistant certification.
Arnold, an incoming freshman to Texas A&M from Frisco, discovered her interest in veterinary medicine even earlier. As a middle school student, she attended a VSCP summer camp in Brownwood. The experience sparked her passion for animal health and confirmed her goal of becoming a veterinarian.
Gee, now a third-year veterinary student from El Paso in the Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, first encountered veterinary science through FFA and the Veterinary Science Career Development event. After competing in contests hosted through VSCP, Gee developed a strong interest in veterinary medicine, ultimately choosing Texas A&M for veterinary school.
Although they encountered the program at different stages of their life, each student gained experience and confidence through VSCP that helped prepare them for careers in veterinary medicine.
A program designed to introduce veterinary careers
The Veterinary Science Certificate Program introduces students to veterinary careers through hands-on training, certification pathways and career exploration opportunities. The program includes coursework for students to earn a veterinary assistant certification, veterinary science summer camps and veterinary science contests.
“VSCP provides students with a solid base in veterinary science so they can make informed decisions about pursuing a career in the veterinary field,” said Nikki Boutwell, VSCP program coordinator, Department of Animal Science. “We have students in all 50 states from ages 12 to adults.”
Start Your Journey
Explore how the Veterinary Science Certificate Program can help you gain hands-on experience and prepare for a career in veterinary medicine.
Students can explore several career pathways, including clinical animal health, One Health and laboratory animal science, gaining exposure to the breadth of veterinary medicine and related fields.
“VSCP helps students explore careers in veterinary medicine by providing hands-on experiences, career guidance and access to clinical opportunities,” said David Sessum, VSCP program manager, Department of Animal Science, Bryan-College Station.
The certification program requires students to complete 200 hours of coursework, 225 hours of supervised clinical experience and mastery of 100 veterinary science skills before earning the veterinary assistant certification.
“Programs like the Veterinary Science Certificate Program reflect the mission of the Department of Animal Science by bringing education directly to students and communities,” said Andy Herring, Ph.D., John K. Riggs ’41 Beef Cattle Professor, associate department head and AgriLife Extension program leader in the Department of Animal Science.
“It’s unique because it combines academic learning with practical, hands-on experiences that help young people explore veterinary careers while building skills that will benefit the animal agriculture industry,” Herring said.
Discovering a passion for veterinary medicine
Arnold said her summer camp experience confirmed her passion for veterinary medicine.
“I loved the camp,” she said. “I was already really passionate about vet science and wanted to learn more so I could be 100% sure this was something I wanted to do.”
Arnold enrolled in the Veterinary Science Certificate Program while participating in FFA. She raised livestock projects and competed in several contests, including the Veterinary Science Career Development event.
“Understanding animal behavior, health and nutrition helped me become more successful in FFA and in raising my animals,” Arnold said.
She will graduate high school in May and plans to attend Texas A&M in the fall. She hopes to attend veterinary school and eventually open a mobile mixed-animal practice to serve rural communities.
Building skills and connections
Perez discovered the program after attending a VSCP summer camp in South Texas, where he met program veterinarian Susan Culp, DVM, program veterinarian, Department of Animal Science. He applied for a grant through the program to help fund his certification.
“I was 17 when I started the program,” Perez said. “I applied, got in and started working on my certification.”
A major component of the program is clinical experience, where students complete 225 hours of hands-on training under the supervision of a veterinarian.
“Because I needed clinical hours for the certificate, I started getting those hours for experience that I later used on my vet school application,” Perez said.
Perez now serves as a student assistant for VSCP and helps lead summer camps that introduce younger students to veterinary science. He recently earned acceptance into the Texas Tech University School of Veterinary Medicine.
Preparing students for veterinary school
Now in veterinary school, Gee said his early experience with the Veterinary Science Career Development Event, CDE, provided an early foundation that helped him succeed.
“My junior year I started competing in the veterinary science CDE contests, learning about instruments, hands-on skills and different species,” Gee said. “Coming into vet school, I already knew terminology and basic concepts that some students hadn’t been exposed to yet.”
He also credits the program for strengthening his critical-thinking skills.
“That ability to think through situations is one of the biggest things the program helped me develop, and it has been very important in vet school,” Gee said.
Addressing the need for veterinary professionals
The demand for veterinary care continues to grow, particularly in rural communities where access to services can be limited.
Programs like the Veterinary Science Certificate Program help prepare the next generation of veterinarians to meet that need. The program gives students early exposure to veterinary careers while building practical skills that prepare them for college and professional training.
“This program gave me a head start,” Perez said. “Coming from an area that didn’t really have access to vet science, I learned through the program that I want to be a vet and go back to my hometown and open a mixed animal practice.”
TxDOT Rural Transportation Improvement Program 2027-2030 Virtual Public Meeting
March 26, 2026 – PARIS DISTRICT
Rural Transportation Improvement Program (TIP)
The 2027 -2030 Rural TIP is underway to identify local projects that are eligible for federal funding.
TxDOT’s Paris District will conduct an online virtual public meeting for community members to review projects identified to be included in is the Rural TIP and assess how they reflect the community’s needs and goals.
What is the Rural TIP?
It includes both grouped projects and individually listed projects that include added-capacity projects and regionally significant projects to be funded outside of MPO boundary, and within a TxDOT district during the next four years, including those eligible for federal funding.
It can include projects for drivers, bicyclists, pedestrians and public transit and its rules are established by federal law.
Why is it important?
It signifies regional consensus (community-region-state) on the need and priority of a project.
It helps identify fund-matching requirements by state and local governments.
Transportation projects CANNOT receive federal funding unless they are included in the Rural TIP.
Public Meetings will be held:
Virtual Meeting
LAMAR, RED RIVER, DELTA, HUNT
RAINS, GRAYSON, FANNIN, HOPKINS, AND FRANKLIN COUNTIES
Available on MARCH 30, 2026
8:00A.M.
Visit 2027-2030 Rural Transportation Improvement Program Paris District
A project is included in the Rural TIP to help the community. As such, it is important for you to get involved!
TxDOT needs your input to prioritize regional transportation needs.
A short presentation and exhibits showing how the Rural TIP operates, and projects included in it, will be discussed in the virtual public meeting. Comments must be postmarked or otherwise received by 4/9/2026
By mail at:
Texas Department of Transportation
PARIS DISTRICT,
Attn: Rural TIP
3500 SOUTH LOOP 286, PARIS, TX 75460
or by e-mail at: [email protected], Attn: Rural TIP
The virtual public meeting will be conducted in English. If you need an interpreter or document translator because English is not your primary language or you have difficulty communicating effectively in English, one will be provided to you. If you have a disability and need assistance, special arrangements can be made to accommodate most needs. If you need interpretation or translation services or you are a person with a disability who requires an accommodation to attend and participate in the virtual public meeting, please contact Kristen Prater, Paris District, at 903-737-9213 no later than 4 p.m. CT, 3/25/2026. Please be aware that advance notice is required as some services and accommodations may require time for the Texas Department of Transportation to arrange.
Ranger Baseball Time Today at 2PM
March 26, 2026 – SULPHUR SPRINGS, Texas — Baseball fans across Hopkins County will once again be able to catch Texas Rangers Baseball radio, as KSST 1230 AM continues its long-standing tradition of broadcasting Rangers baseball.
KSST is part of the Texas Rangers Radio Network, a statewide group of affiliate stations that carry live game coverage throughout the season. For local listeners, that means Opening Day coverage will be available over the air, bringing play-by-play action directly to homes, vehicles and workplaces across Northeast Texas.
The station has a long history in the community, serving Sulphur Springs since 1947 and providing a mix of news, weather and sports programming. In addition to local content, KSST has remained a reliable outlet for Rangers baseball, regularly airing games unless they conflict with local high school sports broadcasts.
Opening Day marks the beginning of the Major League Baseball season and is one of the most anticipated dates on the sports calendar.
For many in Hopkins County, listening on KSST is part of a tradition that stretches back generations. Whether tuning in from a pickup truck, a job site or a front porch, the familiar voices of Rangers broadcasters continue to connect local fans to the action on the field.
KSST officials say they plan to carry as many games as possible throughout the season, keeping Sulphur Springs-area listeners plugged into Rangers baseball from Opening Day through the postseason.
First pitch times may vary, and listeners are encouraged to check local listings for broadcast details.
Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway Adds About 2,200 Acres Through New Acquisitions
March 24, 2026 – QUITAQUE— The bison that call Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway home are growing their range thanks to recent land acquisitions in Briscoe County. The westward additions grow the park to about 17,500 acres of the unique rugged plains and red-walled canyons of the Caprock Escarpment.
Quitaque, TX climate is hot during summer when temperatures tend to be in the 80’s and cold during winter when temperatures tend to be in the 40’s.
“These are two beautiful pieces of property,” said Superintendent Donald Beard. “The Hawkins Ranch is the last piece of property to the west [of the park] that protects our viewshed of the canyon and affects our watershed. The Rocking W Ranch was also important because it expands the park to the northwest, allowing the Texas State Bison Herd potential access to the high plains.”
In addition, the Rocking W property included a 5,000-square-foot, fully furnished “barndominium,” which will allow for future family-style retreats for activities like hiking and horseback riding.
Located in the heart of the Texas Panhandle, the Hawkins property is unique and features more than 4.1 miles of Holmes Creek and Dry Creek, as well as panoramic views of the iconic Caprock Escarpment. Additionally, many native Texas wildlife can be found throughout the property including quail, mule deer, coyotes and bobcats, just to name a few.
Caprock Canyons State Park and Trailway, shaped by wind and water over the eons, features the rugged plains and canyons of the Texas Panhandle. Park visitors can explore the park’s 90 miles of trails while viewing bison roaming the plains and bats roosting in Clarity Tunnel. As the latest Texas State Park designated as an International Dark Sky Park by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA), Caprock Canyons features an untainted view of the Texas stars at night that’s unmatched for campers.
When notified of available properties, TPWD conducts a due diligence review to determine the property’s feasibility as public land. In this case, TPWD determined the outstanding natural and recreational features of the properties made them an excellent candidate and addition to Caprock Canyons.
Now that the sale is complete, agency teams will work together to conduct natural and cultural resource surveys to help guide park planners with management plans and future visitor interpretive exhibits.
TPWD will develop a plan with input from the public to determine recreational opportunities for the property, which may include camping, hiking and biking. This plan may take many months to complete, but TPWD will communicate upcoming milestones, including a potential opening date.
More information can be found on the TPWD website or at TexasStateParks.org .
Hood County Delays Data Center Project
March 26, 23026 – HOOD COUNTY, Texas — Hood County Commissioners have voted unanimously to postpone action on two proposed data center projects, citing the need for more information before moving forward.
As of the 2020 census, Hood County has a population of 61,598. Its county seat is Granbury.
The decision comes as the county continues to be a focal point in the growing debate over large-scale data infrastructure developments. Residents and local leaders have raised concerns about the potential strain such facilities could place on water and power resources, particularly as demand for high-energy operations like cryptocurrency mining increases.
During the meeting, officials revealed that MARA Holdings is connected to both proposed projects. The company already operates a Bitcoin mining facility in Hood County, which has drawn complaints from nearby residents over persistent noise pollution.
Commissioners said delaying the vote will allow time to better understand the full scope and potential impact of the developments, including environmental and infrastructure considerations.
In a related move, commissioners also approved a measure prohibiting the county judge from signing off on a new solar project without a detailed concept plan. Representatives for the proposed Rain Lily Solar project told officials their development would be environmentally friendly and comply with the Lone Star Infrastructure Protection Act.
However, commissioners pushed back, instructing developers to formally submit their plans in writing before any further consideration.
County leaders say the decisions reflect a cautious approach as Hood County navigates rapid growth and increasing interest from energy and technology developers, while balancing the concerns of residents.
TEXAS AWARDS $116 MILLION IN FIFA WORLD CUP PUBLIC SAFETY GRANTS
March 26, 2026 – AUSTIN — Governor Greg Abbott announced $116 million in public safety grants to support security efforts tied to the upcoming FIFA World Cup matches in Texas, with major funding directed to the Houston area and North Texas.
The grants, administered through the Governor’s Public Safety Office, will go to the City of Houston and the North Central Texas Council of Governments. Officials say the funding is aimed at ensuring safety for millions of المتوقع visitors expected to travel through Texas during the global event.
“The FIFA World Cup coming to Texas gives our state a premier opportunity to showcase all it has to offer,” Abbott said. “These public safety grants will help ensure that travelers can enjoy our great state safely.”
The funding comes from the FIFA World Cup Grant Program, part of a larger federal initiative that allocates $625 million nationwide to host cities. Texas is expected to play a major role, with Houston and the Dallas-Fort Worth area hosting multiple matches.
Grant money will be used for a wide range of security measures. That includes hiring additional law enforcement personnel, increasing patrol presence in and around stadiums, and covering overtime costs for officers. Funds may also support specialized equipment such as surveillance systems, drones, bomb detection tools, and emergency response vehicles.
In addition, agencies plan to invest in cybersecurity protections, crowd control infrastructure, and coordination centers to monitor threats in real time. Training exercises simulating large-scale emergencies and potential terror threats are also expected to be part of the effort.
The World Cup is one of the largest sporting events in the world, drawing massive international crowds and requiring extensive coordination between local, state and federal agencies. Security planning typically begins years in advance, especially in the wake of global concerns over terrorism and large-scale event safety.
State leaders say the investment will not only protect visitors but also strengthen long-term public safety capabilities in host regions.
As preparations ramp up, officials say the focus remains on ensuring Texas is ready to host the world—safely and securely.
Texas Game Warden Lt. Col. Graduates from FBI National Academy in Quantico
March 25, 2026 – Lt. Col. Ben Baker, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Deputy Director of Law Enforcement, was one of 253 law enforcement officers who graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia on March 18.
The 297th session of the National Academy included officers from 48 states, the District of Columbia and 26 members of law enforcement representing 24 countries, along with four military organizations and four federal civilian organizations.
Baker brings more than 15 years of experience as a Texas Game Warden to the program. A graduate of Haskell Indian Nations University with a degree in environmental science and Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi with a master’s degree in biology, Baker began his career with TPWD after graduating from the 54th Texas Game Warden Academy in 2009. He was first stationed in Starr County before transferring to San Patricio County in 2013. In 2018, he was promoted to captain game warden for the Corpus Christi District and most recently promoted to lieutenant colonel in 2024.
Texas Game Wardens have a long history of participating in the FBI National Academy, with Baker being the twentieth warden to attend.
“I firmly believe in investing in the professional development of our Texas Game Wardens to ensure they are prepared to meet the complex and evolving challenges of law enforcement,” said Col. Ron VanderRoest, TPWD Law Enforcement Director. “Sending our wardens to the FBI National Academy reflects our commitment to excellence and leadership. The Academy provides advanced training in areas such as leadership, communication and critical thinking; skills that directly enhance our effectiveness in protecting Texas’ natural resources and serving the public. Wardens who attend return with expanded knowledge, stronger professional networks and a renewed dedication to duty, benefiting both our agency and the citizens of Texas.”
Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 10 weeks of advanced training in leadership, communication, and physical fitness. Participants are selected based on proven leadership and professional achievement within their agencies. Since 1935, more than 56,900 officers have graduated from the FBI National Academy. For Texas Game Wardens, the training supports their role as conservation law enforcement officers, strengthening their ability to manage complex incidents, protect Texas’ natural resources and serve the public across a wide range of environments and situations.
About Texas Game Wardens
Texas Game Wardens, within the Law Enforcement Division of TPWD, are responsible for enforcing laws related to the conservation and management of natural resources and public safety through community-based law enforcement. Their mission is to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. Additionally, they play a crucial role in search and rescue operations during natural disasters, exemplifying their commitment to protecting both the environment and the people of Texas.
If you witness a fishing, wildlife or boating violation in progress, please call 1-800-792-GAME (4263) immediately and report it to Operation Game Thief (OGT), Texas’ Wildlife Crime-Stoppers Program. You can also text your tip by sending the keyword TXOGT plus your tip to 847411 or through the Texas OGT App, available for iOS and Android devices. Dispatchers are available 24/7.
QUIKTRIP Planned For Sulphur Springs, Raising Traffic and Business Impact Questions
March 24, 2026 – SULPHUR SPRINGS, Texas — A new QuikTrip convenience store and gas station appears to be headed to Sulphur Springs, with development plans pointing to a location near one of the city’s busiest corridors.
Commercial real estate listings tied to property along Interstate 30 indicate a “new construction QuikTrip gas station” is planned just off the highway, likely near the intersection of I-30 and Broadway Street, also known as Industrial Drive. The listing notes shared access with the future QuikTrip entrance, a detail that typically signals finalized site planning and coordination with traffic flow.
While no official construction timeline has been publicly released, the documentation suggests the project is either in early construction or nearing that phase.
The proposed location sits at one of the most heavily traveled intersections in Sulphur Springs, where Interstate 30 traffic meets local business corridors. That area already experiences congestion during peak hours, particularly with commercial trucks, commuters and shoppers moving between retail centers and downtown.
The addition of a high-volume retailer like QuikTrip could further increase traffic in the area. Known for its large fuel stations and steady flow of customers, QuikTrip locations often draw both local drivers and highway travelers, raising questions about how the intersection will handle the added volume.
Beyond traffic concerns, the project could also have a significant impact on local businesses. QuikTrip is more than a traditional gas station, offering a wide range of prepared foods, drinks and convenience items. That puts it in direct competition not only with other fuel stations, but also with nearby fast food restaurants and small, locally owned eateries.
Some business owners may see increased traffic as an opportunity, while others could face new competitive pressure from a national chain with extended hours and high-volume pricing.
QuikTrip has been expanding rapidly across Texas, targeting high-growth and high-traffic areas like Sulphur Springs. City officials have not yet released detailed plans or traffic studies related to the project.
For now, the development signals continued growth along the I-30 corridor, but also raises important questions about infrastructure, congestion and the future of small businesses in the community.
Alliance Bank Sponsors Mingo Scheduled for April 9
March 24, 2026 – Sulphur Springs, Texas – Alliance Bank is supporting local healthcare as a DUDE Sponsor for Mingo, the Hopkins County Health Care Foundation’s fun-filled bingo night benefiting their annual free men’s clinic. Visit Mingo2026.GiveSmart.com to sponsor a prize, reserve a table, or purchase tickets for the April 9 event. Thank you, Alliance Bank!
Two Long-Running Gala Traditions
March 24, 2026 – Sulphur Springs, TX – The Hopkins County Health Care Foundation’s well-known Gala is full of history and traditions, some better known than others. Two long-running traditions are opening with a prayer and the national anthem.
The prayer began at the second Gala held in 2007. Wanda Galyean was the chairperson of the event, and Jackie Thornton was the Foundation’s executive director. The first person to lead the blessing was Kelli Cody, who did so through song.
The organizers that year said that they believed the Foundation would not be successful without God’s blessing. With that in mind, they felt it was important to start each Gala giving thanks and reverence to God.
To get tickets or to sponsor the 2026 Gala, “A Celebration of Twenty Years,” go to Gala2026.GiveSmart.com.
Though the National Anthem was also added in 2007, it was not listed in the program until 2012, when it was performed by the Northeast Texas Choral Society Ensemble. The Choral Society was also honored that night as one of twelve Hopkins County entities featured in a community calendar. Those same organizations were also the Honorees for the evening, as part of “all things good in Hopkins County.”
Both of the offerings have been a continual part of the Gala since they were first added. Though it is unusual to sing the National Anthem at formal events, it is a valuable part of the program. As 2025 Gala Co-Chair Joe Bob Burgin said when the program was being discussed, “We need the Anthem to be sung now, more than ever.” Since Hopkins County is a very patriotic community, it is fitting.
Who will lead the prayer and Anthem each year is coordinated between the Gala chairs and the Foundation Board. The Gala has been fortunate to have 18 years of eloquent blessings and skilled vocal performers to lead these traditions. To find out who will lead these parts of the program for the “A Celebration of Twenty Years Gala,” one must attend. Just a hint…neither are newcomers to the task.
Proceeds from the 2026 Gala will fund $250,000 for new medical equipment for the surgical wing at CHRISTUS Mother Frances Hospital – Sulphur Springs.
To support the Gala, visit Gala2026.GiveSmart.com to learn about the options.
The twenty-nine-year-old Foundation is an IRS 501 (c) (3) non-profit public charity. In addition to cash donations, the Foundation also welcomes other assets such as stock or mutual funds.
To learn more about the Foundation’s programs, please follow it on Facebook or Instagram, or call 903-438-4799.
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The proceeds from that year’s Gala were used to purchase 3 flex coils, 3 telemedicine units, and EMS vehicles for the local hospital at the time, Hopkins County Memorial. The Honorees were Wanda and Wayne Galyean.
There are still opportunities to support the 20th anniversary Gala. Visit Gala2026.GiveSmart.com for all of the options.
