In May of 1952, twenty-four men, all of whom were World War II veterans, became the first graduates from the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. Today Illinois has 3,000 veterinary graduates. They are leaders who hold office in state, national, and international associations and serve on national committees for organizations such as the American Veterinary Medical Association and special-interest groups. Alumni remain keenly interested in the students and curriculum at the College. Many of them stay involved through the mentor program, which pairs Illinois veterinarians with students who have common interests.
Alumni often employ Illinois graduates or offer student externships.
Some alumni return to the College to teach classes or speak at student meetings. Alumni show their attachment to their alma mater and their classmates by attending class reunions, football game tent parties, and alumni receptions at national veterinary meetings.