There were many touching tributes offered for Dr. Kenneth Terrill (“K.T.”) Wright at the celebration of life event held at our college on November 12. Nearly 40 colleagues, friends and family members filled the EVP classroom that was dedicated to K.T. and his wife, Betty, just three years ago.
The premiere viewing of the K.T. Wright Heritage Video took place, and six colleagues—each of whom K.T. had personally asked—shared their personal and professional remembrances of Dr. Wright. A few tears were shed, but smiles were more prominent throughout this time of celebration.
Dr. Wright, who passed away on September 29, was a 1962 graduate of the college. He actively practiced for 55 years in Blandinsville, Ill., and remained engaged in the college and in veterinary organizations even after retiring.
Throughout his lifetime Dr. Wright was a staunch supporter of the University of Illinois, the College of Veterinary Medicine, the veterinary profession, and the American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV) and its foundation. He gave his time in service and leadership roles, and he made financial contributions through numerous scholarships, programmatic endowments, and other gifts to these organizations.
The many recognitions bestowed upon K.T. bear witness to his influential role.
- In 1991, he received the AASV Meritorious Service Award, the first to be so honored.
- In 2005, he received the college’s Dr. Erwin Small Distinguished Alumni Award.
- In 2017, he received the AASV Foundation Heritage Award for lifelong achievements in swine veterinary medicine.
We are grateful for the tremendous impact that K.T. has had on our college. He will be greatly missed.
This tribute was published in the January 2023 edition of the ISVMA Epitome. The feature image is of Dr. K.T. Wright and Dean Peter Constable was taken at a college event celebrating Dr. Wright in December 2019.
