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Starting a Vet School
I started Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine in 1981. I wanted to provide the same opportunity to students who want to practice veterinary medicine that I had for those who studied medicine. We started with a small class of approximately ten students, in Dominica. Back in those days, I didn't like putting all my eggs in one basket. Governments can change, sometimes for the worse, and you need to plan accordingly. Consequently, I decided to move the veterinary school to another island. In 1983, I reached an agreement with the Prime Minister of St. Kitts that allowed Ross University to establish a veterinary and professional school.
Fortunately, we did not have the same kind of opposition from the veterinary medical establishment as we had with the AAMC. I was able to make agreements with thirteen of the twenty-seven U.S. colleges of veterinary medicine, allowing our students to complete their last year of clinical rotations in the U.S.
Recognizing the Success
Sometimes, I just look back over the years and wonder, "What was I thinking? " and "How did I do it?" It's been a long, tough road. Had I known, back in 1976, the tremendous obstacles that I would face in opening a school of medicine, as well as a school of veterinary medicine, I probably would never have started Ross University.
While reflecting over all the costs, time and energy involved in bring Ross University to fruition; I realize it was well worth the effort. During my tenure as Chairman and Founder, I often have the privilege of presiding over Graduation. As I handed a diploma to each graduate, I was able to shake their hands and be the first to recognize their achievement, with a hearty "Congratulations, Doctor." Those moments fulfilled my dreams, as well as the dreams of the new physicians and veterinarians.
I feel gratified and pleased with the success we have achieved, together. I share with our graduates a sense of satisfaction and accomplishment. We know that if it had not been for Ross University, there would be nearly 7,000 less physicians and veterinarians practicing medicine throughout the U.S.
Our graduates can be found across the country. They are involved in almost every specialty field that exits. Many Ross University alumni are working in underserved communities, providing healthcare to areas that would not have any, without us. These graduates are serving the people of the U.S. in inner-city hospitals, as well as in rural areas. Yet, as hard as we work, there is still a shortage of physicians.
Looking to the Future
In 1998, I reached the age of 80. Understanding that I would possibly not live forever, I had to consider the future of Ross University. As sole stockholder, I decided to sell a majority interest in both of the schools, to investment bankers in April of 2000. I continued as minority stockholder, working with the new investors. We continued to improve Ross University, maintaining our reputation as a superb university, both in medicine and veterinary medicine.
In 2003, Ross University was acquired by DeVry University, at which time I sold my minority interest. Ross University is one of the largest degree-granting organizations in the U.S. specializing in higher education. DeVry will be able to infuse more funding and growth into the Ross University legacy, helping us reach the next level -- as a world-class institution.
Although my formal relationship with Ross University has ceased, I continue to be interested in educational and healthcare opportunities. Currently, I am pursuing programs in distance-learning and nursing. My wish is to make opportunities available for students throughout the world, with the same energy as I did for U.S. Students. Education and opportunity will improve their lives, and the contributions they make have the possibility to improve the lives of everyone
I am always interested in knowing how my graduates are doing. We set out to make the world a better place, and succeeded. Please keep in touch with me.
Sincerely,
Dr. Robert Ross