ASU vet college gives opening timeline; dean flags equine herpesvirus outbreak

Dr. Heidi Banse, dean of the Arkansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine, told the joint Senate and House committees on Agriculture, Forestry and Economic Development that the college is moving toward an opening and that staff have prepared a timeline for the program's launch. She also discussed an ongoing Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy outbreak and how the outbreak might affect animals and program activities in Arkansas.

The update came as part of a broader, Dec. 4 meeting in Hot Springs attended by legislators and agricultural stakeholders. Banse outlined program progress and reiterated the college's role in providing veterinary education and supporting animal-health needs in the state; the transcript states she "shared an update" and "a timeline for the program opening," but the transcript does not provide specific dates or milestones.

Banse also described the Equine Herpesvirus Myeloencephalopathy outbreak and noted its potential implications for animal health and operations; the committee heard her assessment but the transcript does not record detailed case counts, containment measures, or specific changes to the college's launch schedule. Committee members did not take formal action on the item during the session.

The meeting record shows the item was presented for committee information; the transcript does not identify follow-up assignments, required approvals, or funding decisions tied directly to the college update. The committee adjourned at 12:15 p.m.