Two Cornell veterinary trainees earn SUNY student excellence honors

Cornell’s College of Veterinary Medicine is part of a broader Cornell group recognized in the 2026 SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Student Excellence, with D.V.M. candidate Francesca Buchalski and Ph.D. candidate Viviana Maymí among nine Cornell students and recent graduates selected for the honor. The SUNY award is the system’s highest student recognition, celebrating achievement across academics, leadership, service, research, and inclusion. Cornell said Buchalski, ranked second in her class, was recognized for her work in equine medicine, research, peer coaching, and leadership in the Cornell chapter of the American Association of Equine Practitioners, while Maymí was cited for research, teaching, mentorship, and service during her doctoral training. A systemwide ceremony was held April 27 at the Albany Capital Center. (news.cornell.edu)

Why it matters: For veterinary professionals, the recognition highlights the mix of clinical promise, research productivity, and institutional service that veterinary schools are elevating in future leaders. Buchalski’s profile points to continued student interest and leadership in equine practice at a time when workforce pipelines remain a focus across large-animal medicine, while Maymí’s award underscores the importance of graduate researchers and trainees who contribute to accreditation work, teaching, and committee service in academic veterinary medicine. (news.cornell.edu)

What to watch: Watch where Buchalski lands for her equine internship and how Cornell continues to spotlight student researchers and clinicians in future SUNY and college-level honors. (news.cornell.edu)