New Book Released by Purdue University Press Addresses Diversity Among Veterinarians

Purdue University Press has announced the release of the book, Navigating Diversity and Inclusion in Veterinary Medicine, with a contribution from Clint Lewis, executive vice president and president of U.S. Operations at Zoetis, a former business unit of Pfizer.

Veterinary medicine is one of the least diverse medical professions (1). This seminal publication addresses the history of diversity in the veterinary profession, including the context of historical changes and actions being taken in the U.S. today. Lewis' contribution - a chapter entitled "Taking Up The Challenge: What Can Be Learned From Corporate America?" - focuses on the case for diversity within the corporate ranks and the role business leaders play in promoting a culture of diversity and inclusion, regardless of the industry. The chapter includes a corporate roadmap for strengthening diversity that draws specifically from Zoetis' own experiences.

"With its contribution to this important publication, Zoetis reaffirms its commitment to the veterinary profession," said Willie M. Reed, DVM, PhD and Dean of Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine. "I can't thank Mr. Lewis enough for providing his insights and real world perspective as related to diversity in the business sector."

According to Lewis, Navigating Diversity and Inclusion in Veterinary Medicine represents a new benchmark for the diversity discussion. Drawing from empirical studies and real-world experience, the chapter demonstrates how increased gender, ethnic, and other aspects of diversity can lead to measurable increases in employee engagement and productivity, overall business results and a company's enduring reputation.

"This is one of the first books to explore the state of diversity within the ranks of the veterinary profession and the tangible benefits that can be derived from it across the corporate landscape," said Lewis. "Zoetis is honored to contribute to this highly-relevant, comprehensive and timely publication, one that focuses our attention on a very serious topic and opportunity - the lack of diversity within the veterinary profession and associated businesses, with a strong call to action for making improvements that create undeniable business advantages."

As stated within Lewis' chapter:

Success will come to those organizations that fully "get" the importance of diversity; where leaders - from senior most down - are committed to lead the charge and where all available levers are utilized to enable the organization to change. The call to action therefore is to "act." Those that do, get the results.

The chapter also highlights how Zoetis has developed and promoted a more diverse workplace environment within its own organization, as part of its overall diversity and inclusion strategy - from a notably-diverse Executive Leadership Team to its Diversity & Inclusion Council and 9,000-plus employees.

According to Dean Reed, "As we look more closely at diversity and inclusion within the veterinary industry, Mr. Lewis provides a practical 'call to action' for other entities across the veterinary/animal health industry to consider adopting as they face similar challenges."

Navigating Diversity and Inclusion in Veterinary Medicine is available through The Purdue University Press (http://www.thepress.purdue.edu), amazon.com and other major book retailers.

ABOUT ZOETIS

Zoetis (zô-EH-tis) is the leading animal health company, dedicated to supporting customers and businesses focused on raising and caring for livestock and companion animals. Building on a 60-year history as the animal health business of Pfizer, Zoetis discovers, develops, manufactures and markets veterinary vaccines and medicines, complemented by diagnostic products and genetic tests and supported by a range of services. The company generated annual revenues of $4.3 billion in 2012. It has more than 9,300 employees worldwide and a local presence in approximately 70 countries, including 29 manufacturing facilities in 11 countries. Its products serve veterinarians, livestock producers and people who raise and care for livestock and companion animals in 120 countries. For more information, visit http://www.zoetis.com.

1. In 2009, only about 5% of successful applicants to veterinary schools and colleges represented by the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) were Hispanic/Latino; about 5% were Asian, and only about 2% were African American/Black (AAVMC 2009). Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges; 2009.