Students in the Veterinary Technology Program that Wayne State\'s Division of Laboratory Animal Resources operates under contractual arrangement with Wayne County Community College, received the 2005 Community Service Award from the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association.

"Students in this organization were nominated for this award because of their commitment to assisting the community," said Dr. John Oliver, WSU\'s vice president for Research. "These students juggle their school, work, and family responsibilities, yet spend much time giving back to the community."

Students in this organization volunteered in numerous events in the past year, including:

• Michigan Animal Adoption Network vaccination clinics - held in various areas of southeastern Michigan. These clinics help needy pet owners get their pets vaccinated. Students mix vaccines and assist veterinary staff in vaccinating pets.
• Miracle of Life exhibit at the State Fair - Students volunteered for 14 shifts, which included assisting with birthing of animals, holding animals for the public to interface with, and answering questions regarding the use of animals in agriculture.
• Run Wild Event at the Detroit Zoo - Students volunteered at a variety of levels with this fund raising event. * Detroit Zoological Society - Students collect returnable cans and bottles and donate the proceeds to the Society\'s veterinary hospital. In the past few years, they have raised $4200.
• Michigan Anti-cruelty Association - In February of each year, students assist the association\'s veterinary staff in spaying of animals. * Michigan Humane Society Spay Days - Students assist the Veterinary Technology Program staff and the Detroit Michigan Humane Society staff in several spay day events every February.
• Donations to outside groups - Every year, students have several fund raisers, with proceeds donated to animal related groups selected by the students. This past year, monies were donated to Horse\'s Haven, Ohio Search and Rescue, Rainbow Handicapped and Riders.

"This group not only works hard to excel in their studies, but strives to provide important community service to rescued animals and pet owners in need of health care assistance with their pets. Wayne State is pleased to continue this outstanding program with Wayne County Community College, and are proud of the community activities the students are involved in - benefiting others, as well as themselves in these great learning opportunities," added Dr. Oliver.

Wayne State University is one of the nation\'s pre-eminent public research universities in an urban setting. In the past 20 years, Wayne State\'s research has grown nine percent annually, with research expenditures reaching nearly $214 million in 2003. Over 75 percent of research at WSU is focused on the life sciences, and this focus has led our School of Medicine to climb the National Science Foundation rankings to 22.

Through its multidisciplinary approach to research and education, and its ongoing collaboration with government, industry and other institutions, the university seeks to enhance economic growth and improve the quality of life in the city of Detroit, state of Michigan and throughout the world.