A deep understanding of the needs of pet owners has guided Dr. John Anderson Coyne, Class of 1974, through a long and successful career. That’s one reason he chose to name the lobbies of the Small Animal Clinic and the Veterinary Medicine South Clinic at the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine. His combined $4 million investment helped create a welcoming environment for clients and their pets in both facilities.
Dr. Coyne and his family have also been long-time supporters of veterinary student scholarships.
Dr. Coyne has been an extraordinary partner to our hospital. We are so grateful for his gifts in support of our college, our hospital, and our students.
Christine Dietrich, associate dean of advancement
More recently, the family has committed to a multi-year renovation and expansion within the South Clinic, which opened in 2020 to serve canine, feline, and companion zoological animal patients.
This new Coyne family gift will elevate the client experience as well as provide greater opportunities for veterinary students within the South Clinic location.
South Clinic Gift Impacts Clients, Students
“These renovations, including a larger rounds room for veterinary students, allow us to accommodate our growing student body and provide more opportunities for fourth-year students to gain experience as the lead clinician on routine pet care,” said Dr. Gene Pavlovsky, director of the Veterinary Medicine South Clinic.
The first phase of the project is already under way. It includes adding new patient wards for the zoological companion service and zoo ambulatory service, home base for veterinarians who care for animals in the zoos in Peoria, Decatur, and Bloomington.
Additionally, the urgent and convenient care service in South Clinic will gain a second exam room to reduce wait time. A central oxygen supply for patients, improved work space for technician staff, and expanded storage areas also part of phase 1.
In future years, the Coyne gift will allow South Clinic to expand its footprint, creating several new exam rooms for the growing caseload.
“Dr. Coyne has been an extraordinary partner to our hospital,” said Christine Dietrich, associate dean of advancement at the College of Veterinary Medicine. “We are so grateful for his gifts in support of our college, our hospital, and our students.”
