During the 97th FVMA Annual Conference, the FVMA Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Florida Veterinary Medical Association, announced a new scholarship initiative to support the next generation of veterinary professionals.
The Dr. Shawn Townsend Callahan Memorial Scholarship Fund
The Dr. Shawn Townsend Callahan Memorial Scholarship Fund was created in honor of Dr. Shawn Callahan, a veterinarian formerly with KindVet of Sarasota, who tragically lost her life to gun violence in 2023. She was known by her peers for her warmth and unwavering compassion and left behind a career defined by compassion, resilience, and dedication to the field of veterinary medicine.
Dr. Callahan began her career as a practice manager before earning her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree in 2021 from Oregon State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine. As a late-career veterinarian, she served as an inspiration to others pursuing nontraditional paths in the profession.
“Shawn was bold, direct, compassionate, and caring, with a heart of absolute gold,” said Amy Tomasko, who worked alongside her early in her career. “Her smile would make anyone smile in return. I am so grateful to have known her and to have been able to grow up in veterinary medicine with people like Shawn to support and encourage me every step of the way.”
“Join the first group of donors to reach our $125k goal.”
About the Scholarship
The FVMA has launched this new financial aid campaign in partnership with the Callahan family and KindVet of Sarasota with a dual purpose: to help veterinary students in need of support and to establish a permanent memorial scholarship in Dr. Callahan’s name.
The scholarship will provide a $2,500 stipend annually to two veterinary students, one from the University of Florida and one from Lincoln Memorial University’s Florida program, beginning in the fall of 2027. Applications will be administered directly by the FVMA Foundation.
This initiative aims not only to honor Dr. Callahan’s legacy but also to support students who reflect her passion, perseverance, and commitment to patient care.
Help Us Build a Lasting Legacy
The FVMA Foundation is seeking to raise $125,000 to permanently endow the scholarship fund, ensuring its impact for years to come. To accelerate progress, the Foundation will match donations up to $50,000, and 100% of contributions will go directly toward funding the scholarship. Supporters are encouraged to contribute and help inspire future veterinary leaders in Dr. Callahan’s name.
About the FVMA Foundation
The FVMA Foundation supports veterinarians, veterinary teams, and the animals they serve across the state.
Florida is home to one of the largest veterinary communities in the nation, caring for millions of pets, farm animals, and horses. The Foundation works to strengthen this community through programs that address critical needs across the profession, including:
- Mental health support
- Scholarship funds
- Leadership development programs
- Disaster relief and assistance
- Accessible support for pet owners
- Legislative advocacy efforts
Over the past 25 years, the FVMA Foundation has granted more than $1 million and positively impacted more than 5,000 lives.
From hares to horses and beyond, the FVMA Foundation remains committed to supporting the veterinary community and advancing animal care. Through initiatives like the Dr. Shawn Callahan Memorial Scholarship Fund, that impact will continue for generations to come.
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