Penn's School of Veterinary Medicine appointed 2005 Penn Vet graduate and professor Amy Durham as associate dean for education, according to a May 21 announcement.
In her new role, Durham will be “responsible for shaping, guiding, and advancing Penn Vet’s educational mission,” according to the school's announcement. Durham — a professor of anatomic pathology — previously held the title of Penn Vet’s assistant dean for education. She joined Penn Vet’s faculty as a lecturer in 2008.
“I’m honored that I can continue to contribute to Penn Vet’s curricular initiatives at such a pivotal time for veterinary education,” Durham said according to the release.
Durham will direct the Veterinariae Medicinae Doctoris curriculum, which she helped to develop alongside previous Penn Vet Associate Dean for Education Kathy Michel. The program features four years of concentrated learning — the first two focusing on core foundational education, and the last two emphasizing clinical experiences.
“I am committed to fostering a learning environment that is grounded in real-world relevance — one that supports both our students and our faculty,” Durham said.
Durham will report to Andrew Hoffman — the Gilbert S. Kahn Dean of Penn Vet — who was reappointed to a second term in September 2024.
“I am thrilled that Dr. Durham will continue to move our educational program forward and lead the strategic oversight of our curricular initiatives,” Hoffman said according to the release.
Durham will guide “development efforts in pedagogy and oversee academic policy development, maintain accreditation standards, and foster an outcomes-driven learning environment,” according to the statement. Her job will also entail work with Penn Vet’s Office of Admissions and Student Life.
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As a researcher, Durham has authored over 75 peer-reviewed papers, with an emphasis on lymphoma research and treatment. She served as the chief operations officer for the American College of Veterinary Pathologists — a nonprofit veterinary specialty organization — from 2019 to 2024. Durham also served on the editorial board of ACVP’s peer-reviewed journal, Veterinary Pathology.
Durham earned an undergraduate degree in psychology from the University of Virginia, a master's degree of science in neuroscience from Georgetown University, and a doctorate in veterinary science from Penn Vet. In 2024, she received a master's degree of science in medical education from the Penn Graduate School of Education.
In 2015, Durham was awarded the Zoetis Distinguished Veterinary Teaching Award, and in 2023, she received the American College of Veterinary Pathologists President's Award.
“It is a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated community of academic colleagues, staff, and students as we shape the future of veterinary medicine,” Durham said.
