News

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.

Robert Collins, RVT will step into the role of Veterinary Medical Complex Facilities Project Manager, effective March 1, 2026, reporting to the Dean’s Office.

The UC Davis Equine Reproduction Service was well represented at a recent international breeders’ veterinary conference in Hertogenbosch, Netherlands, held during the KWPN Stallion Show. The conference attracted leaders in the field to share insights on showjumping breeding and equine reproduction in general.

Retired UC Davis staff manager Harold Davis, BA, RVT, VTS (ECC, Anesthesia & Analgesia), was honored with the 2026 ICON Award by The Bridge Club at their 2026 ICON Event, held in conjunction with the annual Veterinary Meeting & Expo in Orlando. A veterinary technician at UC Davis for 36 years, Davis ended his career as the manager of the Emergency and Critical Care Service at the William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (VMTH).