The Joel M. Woolfson Memorial Scholarship was established in 2016 by his colleagues, family and friends to honor and preserve the memory of a truly amazing veterinarian, dedicated surgeon, mentor to all who knew him and humanitarian. We tragically lost Joel to suicide in the fall of 2015. This endowed scholarship is intended to honor his life and legacy, but also serves to shine a light on the alarming statistics regarding the high rate of suicide in the veterinary profession.
Joel was a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons. His skill as a surgeon saved or enhanced the lives of countless patients. His compassion and care for those who could not speak for themselves was limitless. Never motivated by money, he quietly offered his exemplary surgical skills at little or no cost for stray or shelter animals as well as for the animals belonging to his veterinary colleagues and their support staff. To all of us who knew him, he truly was a hero.
This scholarship will provide financial assistance to a senior veterinary student, intern or resident who has demonstrated a passion for and excellence in the fields or either surgery or shelter medicine. The ideal candidate will exhibit the dedication and compassion which were so integral to Joel’s character.