The Animal Doctor: David Lee '84

Dr. David Lee '84 is one of the "top dogs" at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. The school is a world-renowned leader in veterinary medical education, biomedical research, animal medicine, and public health. He credits Onondaga Community College with helping him get where he is today. "OCC gave me a foundation of how to be a good student along with a sense of direction and purpose. It drove me to not only graduate with a bachelor's degree from Cornell, but to go beyond."

During his days at Liverpool High School, Dr. Lee was an average student. He struggled to stay focused and lacked direction. He didn't apply to any colleges during his senior year, and after graduating decided to take a ride up to the OCC campus. He filled out an application and turned it in. When the person behind the desk said 'Welcome to OCC,' he remembered feeling an immediate sense of relief.

The freedom that accompanies college life can be a double-edged sword. Some students can handle being on their own and flourish, while others enjoy it too much and don't last more than a semester. For Lee, it was exactly what he needed. He enjoyed being able to structure his class schedule the way he wanted it and saw it carry over into his performance in the classroom. "My professors saw something in me and guided me down a path I never knew was attainable. I became good in math and science."

Dr. Lee's lifelong dream was to work with animals, and as he excelled in math and science he realized his dream could become a reality. When he learned about a transfer agreement between OCC and Cornell it inspired him to work even harder. After completing his degree at OCC, he transferred to Cornell and earned three degrees; a Bachelor's in Animal Science, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, and a Master of Business Administration.

Along the way he worked as a veterinarian in Maine, and taught and worked at animal hospitals at  Colorado State University and the University of Minnesota. Today he is the Associate Dean for External Programs at Cornell's College of Veterinary Medicine. The position allows him to both teach and be involved in research and development.

It's been more than 40 years since Dr. Lee started taking classes at OCC when the college gave him an opportunity he is forever grateful for. "I am a champion for those who have shown grit and tenacity by working their way through the community college or State school system. When we review applications, I make sure students who took this path and showed the will to work are given every opportunity to be considered because of my experience. It's why OCC remains so dear to my heart."