Thomas (Tom) Campi (B.S., ’83, DVM, MPVM, ’89) has been named the 2026 recipient of the UC Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicine’s Change Maker Award,  recognizing his enduring commitment to supporting veterinary students through scholarships and fellowship. The award recognizes benefactors whose commitment and generosity creates lasting impact through scholarship and fellowship support, a commitment that Tom and his wife Jeanine have demonstrated through their support of multiple scholarships, including the Sister Rosemary Campi Memorial Scholarship, the Class of 1989 Scholarship, and the school’s 75th Anniversary Scholarship. The award was given at the school’s Evening of Gratitude on March 4. 

In receiving the award, Tom recognized his mentors, colleagues, students, and wife, Jeanine, noting that the students he meets at the school continue to inspire him. 

I have been lucky in my career – giving back to support students pursuing the veterinary profession was an easy decision for Jeanine and me,” he said. “We are so happy to help relieve a little bit of that stress that comes with being a veterinary student.” 

—Dr. Tom Campi

A member of the Dean’s Leadership Council and the UC Davis Foundation Board of Trustees, Tom has enjoyed a distinguished career in animal health. After earning his degrees, he spent 26 years at Elanco Animal Health before retiring, later returned to lead research and regulatory projects at Huvepharma. He is now CEO of Modulant Biosciences, a veterinary biotechnology startup developing antivirals and oncology therapeutics. Throughout his career, Tom has remained deeply connected to UC Davis and committed to ensuring the next generation of veterinarians has the same opportunities that shaped his own path. Though he jokes about having “retired three times—and none of them took,” his dedication to science and education continues to inspire.

“I have been so fortunate in my career path to have had amazing mentors and colleagues,” Campi said. “Every mentor and person who I have worked with – from managers, to work colleagues, to my aunt, Sister Rosemary, and my wife – all have taught me so much.”

Motivated by a deep empathy for today’s students, Tom and Jeanine also support the school’s Accessible Veterinary Care programs, including the Knights Landing and Covelo clinics. They take pride in seeing students and clinicians work side-by-side to provide compassionate, community-centered care. “Jeanine and I both care deeply for human and animal health – it is exciting to see the advancements that can happen when there is close collaboration between human and animal medicine.” 

Tom encourages others to give back in whatever way feels meaningful: “It doesn’t have to be a lot—find what speaks to you. That passion will inspire you and help others.”

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Learn more about student support at the UC Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicine.

• Scholarships
• Fellowships