News
Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine Donates Supplies for Annual National Coastal Cleanup
09/30/11
Ms. Jodi Peeler, RUSVM assistant dean for external relations and communications, presents Mr. Sylvester Belle, coordinator of the National Beach Cleanup from the Department of Physical Planning and Environment with the gloves and trash bags to be used for today’s cleanup.
BASSETERRE, St. Kitts—In support of its mission of serving animals and society, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine (RUSVM) donated 400 trash bags and 200 pairs of gloves to be used during today’s Annual National Coastal Cleanup. The annual cleanup is organized by the St. Kitts and Nevis Department of Physical Planning and Environment as part of the Ocean Conservancy’s Annual International Coastal Cleanup.
Yesterday, Ms. Jodi Peeler, RUSVM assistant dean for external relations and communications, presented the supplies to Mr. Sylvester Belle, coordinator of the National Beach Cleanup from the Department of Physical Planning and Environment. The partnership began last year when RUSVM donated supplies to the cleanup. Because of the success of the event in 2010, the University wanted to provide support again this year and also agreed to increase its supply donation.
“The coastal cleanup is helps to educate the public about the importance of keeping our beaches clean,” said Peeler. “The cleanup has a positive impact at so many levels in St. Kitts—to the environment by keeping our sea life healthy, to the education of the volunteers who assist in the cleanup, and, even, to the tourist sector who visit the pristine beaches.”
Last year’s event had more than 300 volunteers and contributions from local organizations participate in the success of the Coastal Cleanup. Approximately 1,985 pounds of debris was removed from local beaches and coastal areas.
“We look forward to the results from this years event,” said Peeler. “Supporting this initiative allows us to not only assist with improving the well-being of animals in our sea, but also our society as a whole.”
“We appreciate the continued support of Ross University and their commitment to protecting our environment,” said Belle.
Ross University School of Veterinary has made various equipment and educational contributions in the Federation. The school offers citizens a free spay clinic for female dogs to help control the stray dog population on the island. In addition, the university has provided animal education classes to local schools, donated supplies and monetary funds to the Children’s Home, contributed critical care equipment to JNF General Hospital and created sea turtle awareness programs.
About Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine
Ross University is a provider of medical and veterinary education, offering Doctor of Medicine and Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree programs. Founded in 1982 and located in St. Kitts, West Indies, the School of Veterinary Medicine is accredited by the St. Christopher & Nevis Accreditation Board and the American Veterinary Medical Association Council on Education to offer the Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree program (AVMA COE, 1931 North Meacham Road, Suite 100, Schaumburg, IL 60173, 847-925-8070). The School of Veterinary Medicine is affiliated with 22 AVMA-accredited U.S. veterinary schools where students complete their clinical year. The University’s Veterinary Teaching Hospital is the only facility outside the U.S. and Canada accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association.
