News

The University of California, Davis, Cal Aggie Alumni Association has announced the recipients of its 2026 Alumni Awards, honoring exceptional alumni and friends whose leadership, innovation and service have strengthened communities locally and around the world.

This year’s honorees are advancing global health, driving business innovation, championing equity and transforming the future of science and food systems. Across industries and continents, they pair professional excellence with a deep commitment to UC Davis — expanding opportunity and shaping a better future for all.

The UC Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicine has launched a new podcast, The Vetrospective TM, a science-driven series that breaks down and explains the research of top modern veterinary medicine and explores the science shaping the future of animal health.

Hosted by Dr. Michael Kent, The Vetrospective features in-depth conversations with leading experts on topics that affect dogs, cats, and the people who care for them.

Seven weaned elephant seal pups in California’s Año Nuevo State Park tested positive for highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory confirmed Tuesday evening.

An unassuming metal barn erected recently at the southern edge of the University of California, Davis campus houses some advanced video technology for a uniquely UC Davis project.

“I call them my Geriatric Club,” joked horse owner Laura Croyle, referring to her three horses – Big Chief and Little Cloud, both 20-year-old miniatures, and Dex, a 30-year-old mustang.

The three “brothers” have been herd mates for 10 years and are inseparable. So, it’s understandable when Dex and Little Cloud put up a fuss when Big Chief was taken to UC Davis for five days. The miniature gelding developed a case of colic and was writhing in pain when Laura and her husband Warren found him one morning four months ago.

Poultry owners should remain vigilant about protecting their birds because the risk of avian influenza can change as quickly as the weather, says a University of California Cooperative Extension poultry specialist.

Rance Buckley LeFebvre died peacefully in his home in El Dorado on January 19, 2026. He was a devoted teacher, molecular microbiologist, and affable colleague.

The school welcomes Hilary Kennedy, MA, LMFT, LPCC, as its new mental health counselor dedicated to supporting faculty and staff. Kennedy was hired as part of the School’s People First Strategic Initiative, which identified the addition of a mental health counselor for faculty and staff as a top priority.

Dr. Mauricio Navarro has joined the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory and the Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology as Assistant Professor of Clinical Diagnostic Pathology effective February 1, 2026.

Dr. Yu-Yang (Jerry) Tsai has joined the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory and the Department of Pathology, Microbiology & Immunology as Assistant Professor of Clinical Diagnostic Medicine effective February 1, 2026.