Veterinarian and artist John Hallett DVM’90 is dedicating his time and talent to the creation of a new bronze sculpture depicting the educational journey of a veterinary medical student.
The piece is scheduled for completion in 2023 and will be located in a prominent courtyard between the current and new buildings. It is an apt location for the sculpture, titled Forward Together, which aims to embody the spirit of education, research and community at the UW School of Veterinary Medicine.
“There couldn’t be an artist more perfectly suited,” says Kristi Thorson, associate dean for advancement and administration. “As a DVM alum, his perspective on the journey students take in their training, combined with his love of science and respect for our researchers, will most certainly be reflected in the finished piece. He’s so sociable too. I appreciate his collaborative mindset … he plans on talking with alumni, faculty, staff and students to help guide his design process.”
Support the Forward Together Sculpture
All gifts to the sculpture will be doubled through the Margo and Jack Edl Match. As Dr. Hallett is donating his time, gifts or pledges will directly support the cost of creating and installing the sculpture.
About the Sculpture
John Hallett has always loved art as much as animals and science. In keeping with his generous and civic spirit, Hallett offered to create a tribute art piece for the school’s building expansion project – a proposed 3,000-pound bronze sculpture depicting the student experience at the SVM. The project will be a multi-step, multi-year process.
Having so many vivid memories from his time as a DVM student ignites his desire to be part of the school’s continuing story: “I have an emotional connection to the school. For me it truly feels like family. The relationships I developed there over the four- year program have turned into lifelong friendships,” he says.
Learn more about Dr. Hallett’s vision for the Forward Together sculpture in his own words by watching the videos below.
The Margo and Jack Edl Match
Margo and Jack Edl, long-time clients and friends of the school, have committed $100,000 to match all gifts to the Forward Together sculpture. Through the Margo and Jack Edl Match, they hope to inspire others to support this exciting opportunity to showcase veterinary medical students and their pursuit of a dream.
“Our love of animals and those who care for them is what inspired us to share this gift,” the Edls say. “We hope you will join us in support of what we believe will become an iconic symbol of the impact veterinary medical students have on the world.”
All gifts to the sculpture will be doubled through the Edls’ one-to-one match. And because Dr. Hallett is donating his time and talent, all gifts or pledges will go directly support the cost of creating and installing the sculpture.
For questions about the match or more information about a pledge, contact Pat Bowdish at 608-332-4750 or pat.bowdish@supportuw.org.
