For Nicole C. Close, Ph.D., the creative avenues that philanthropy offers are exciting, impactful, and ever-changing. She and her husband Christopher Albrecht have supported the UC Davis Weill School of Veterinary Medicine in many different ways, but all with the same goal – creating tangible impact to help advance veterinary health. When their beloved English Labradors Loki and Thor were diagnosed with nasal planum squamous cell carcinoma, clinicians at the William R. Pritchard Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital and the Center for Companion Animal Health (CCAH) cared for both of them during a difficult time of their health journey. After they passed away, Nicole and Christophercreated a canine research fund in their name. They have also made gifts of equipment and other essentials to the CCAH and the school to more quickly advance treatments and care for animals seen by UC Davis.

“I so appreciated every interaction that I had with clinicians and students at the hospital and at CCAH,” Nicole recalls. “When I brought Thor in, he had a chronic cough and some masses. I still remember the student who helped us, and the professionalism she showed while working with me as Thor’s ‘mom.’ She answered every question we had, so we could determine the best path forward for Thor.”

At around the same time, Loki had been experiencing some issues walking. After consulting with UC Davis, it was determined that Loki would need a complex surgery that required specialized equipment the hospital did not have on hand. What began as a solution for Loki soon helped other patients as well. “I’ve never accepted the word ‘no,’” she said. “I love to make things happen when they feel challenging.”

Thanks to Nicole’s tenacity, the hospital was able to secure the specialized equipment to save Loki.  The equipment later helped other dogs receive the same lifesaving care. Nicole and Christopher continue to support the school through the purchase of equipment because of its direct impact on veterinary health.

I love hearing the stories of how the gifts of equipment or other items have helped furry family members,” she said. “The gifts are immediate and tangible. Sometimes, it is the little things that make the biggest difference.”

With both Loki and Thor experiencing health challenges at the same time, Nicole got to know many of the clinicians, students, and staff at the hospital and CCAH. “I was so grateful for their care. We received the gift of time with Loki and Thor before they passed,” she said.

Nicole recently joined the school’s Dean’s Leadership Council and is excited to expand her knowledge about veterinary medicine, along with the opportunities it provides to translate human and planetary health. “I’m always looking to learn,” she said. “I am here to be inspired by others, and learn from people I might not otherwise have the opportunity to meet.”

Nicole is also eager to share what she knows about human health. As the owner of a clinical research company, she sees firsthand the importance of clinical research in order to improve human health. As part of the DLC, her hope is to foster stronger ties with veterinary medicine, having seen the difference it can make.

Nicole and Christopher also recently adopted a new puppy, Canelo. “It was not an easy decision after losing Loki and Thor, we needed time and space. But Canelo is a gift, and we love having him as part of our lives.”

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As the Campaign for the Veterinary Medical Complex advances toward construction, the new Small Animal Hospital, Primary Care Hospital, and other centers will be home to state-of-the-art equipment. Support from philanthropic partners, from the smallest item such as warming blankets, to advanced instruments that help advance veterinary medicine, will be critical to caring for the animals who come to UC Davis.

Nicole and her husband Christopher have already made tremendous impact through their giving. Learn more about supporting the new Veterinary Medical Complex here.