- Dr. Richard Prather will assume the role of dean effective June 30
- Brings 40 years of mixed animal practice experience in rural Oklahoma
- Appointment comes ahead of a planned $329 million teaching hospital project
- Longstanding involvement in veterinary education and student mentorship
- Strong ties to livestock producers, industry partners, and state leadership
- Focus on strengthening rural veterinary workforce and community connections
Oklahoma State University (OSU) has appointed Dr. Richard Prather, DVM, as the next dean of its College of Veterinary Medicine, marking a leadership transition at a pivotal moment for the program’s growth and infrastructure investment.
Prather, an OSU graduate (Class of 1986), brings four decades of clinical experience in mixed animal practice. He co-owned and operated Ellis County Animal Hospital in Shattuck, Oklahoma, for more than 30 years, serving a broad client base that included cow-calf operations, feedlots, equine breeding programs, and companion animal owners.
His appointment coincides with the development of a new $329 million teaching hospital, which will replace the college’s existing 40-year-old facility and is expected to elevate OSU’s position among leading veterinary programs nationwide.
Deep Roots in Rural Practice
Throughout his career, Prather has maintained strong ties to Oklahoma’s agricultural community, while also contributing to veterinary education. He has hosted more than 60 veterinary students from multiple universities and served on the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine Admissions Committee.
His professional leadership includes roles with the Oklahoma Veterinary Medical Association, Production Animal Consultants, and the OSU Veterinary Medicine Authority. He has also advised animal health companies including Virbac, Elanco, and Bayer, helping bridge the gap between industry and practicing veterinarians.
Leadership at a Transformational Moment
University leadership emphasized Prather’s alignment with the college’s mission, particularly as it relates to rural veterinary care and food animal medicine. His background is expected to support stronger connections between the college, practicing veterinarians, livestock producers, and policymakers.
State leaders also highlighted the importance of veterinary medicine to Oklahoma’s agricultural economy, noting that the new teaching hospital represents a long-term investment in workforce development and animal health infrastructure.
Strategic Priorities Ahead
As dean, Prather’s immediate focus will include advancing the planning and design of the new teaching hospital, strengthening relationships with referring veterinarians, and working with stakeholders to define long-term strategic priorities for the college.
His appointment reflects a broader emphasis on ensuring veterinary graduates are equipped to serve rural communities, support food production systems, and contribute to the state’s agricultural economy.
Information sourced from Oklahoma State University press release.
