Taking the journey from animal science to One Health

Animal Science
Animals
Disease

A degree in animal science starts one Cornellian on the path to protecting both animal and human health.

When Tyra Jenkins ’19 graduated with a degree in animal science, she envisioned a future in veterinary medicine. However, her path extended beyond traditional clinical practice to a significant role in public health, where she now protects both animal and human health.

After earning her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Purdue University and a Master of Public Health from the University of Minnesota, Jenkins took a job with the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) as a veterinary medical officer. Her work encompasses disease surveillance, outbreak management and international animal movement—critical activities at the intersection of animal health, human health and global food systems.

"Globalization has changed how we move animals and food," Jenkins explained. "I'm excited to learn about previously unknown health risks, prevent them and protect the US agricultural industry."

"I'm excited to learn about previously unknown health risks, prevent them and protect the US agricultural industry."

As an undergrad, Jenkins majored in pre-veterinary medicine and minored in education, and she credits Cornell’s rigorous, diverse and engaging environment for preparing her well for vet school and her career. She studied abroad at Harper Adams University in England, researching the use of essential oils to alter sheep microbiomes. She also participated in a summer sustainability program with the USDA, which sparked her interest in public health.

“I enjoyed every opportunity Cornell provided me with,” she said. “Each activity I did taught me more about myself and what I would be interested in pursuing once I graduated. I liked the size of the Animal Science Department; there was a clear focus on each student, and there were so many resources.”

two women stand together at graduation ceremony — Tyra Jenkins stands with Animal Science Professor Debbie Cherney at Jenkins' graduation. Photo provided.

Active in the Pre-Vet Club and Alpha Zeta while at Cornell, Jenkins appreciated the support system these groups provided. She especially gained valuable insights in Professor Debbie Cherney’s nutrition class, she said. The class offered a hands-on approach and broadened her understanding, which proved invaluable in her career. Ag Day, an event celebrating agriculture's impact, was another highlight.

After graduation, Jenkins took a gap year in Houston, shadowing a USDA veterinarian at Bush Intercontinental Airport. This experience, especially during the emerging COVID-19 pandemic, deepened her interest in public health and the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interdependence of human, animal and environmental health.

“Watching the pandemic affect millions and recognizing the pressures on professionals to work with patients in a very rapid manner inspired me to pursue a career in public health,” she said. “I wanted to help people understand the disease and how they can protect themselves and their animals.”

In vet school, Jenkins focused on public health and zoonotic diseases, and pursued her masters degree simultaneously as she recognized the need for diverse voices in public health leadership. "I understand the distrust many marginalized communities have towards medical professionals," she explained. "I want to bridge that gap, coming from a marginalized community myself."

a woman stands in front of fencing with two turkeys behind her — Tyra Jenkins' job as USDA veterinary medical officer requires her to conduct inspections, collect samples and liaise between animal owners, producers and government agencies, among other things. Photo provided.

As a veterinary medical officer with the USDA in Texas, Jenkins now reviews health certificates, manages disease outbreaks, conducts inspections, collects samples and liaises between animal owners, producers and government agencies. Her role requires constant flexibility to respond to emerging disease threats.

Jenkins has already been involved in managing outbreaks of highly pathogenic avian influenza and monitoring threats like African swine fever. One memorable project involved collecting chronic wasting disease samples from deer in an Indianapolis park.

“The project was a collaboration between USDA and the Indiana Department of Natural Resources,” she said. “I learned a lot about testing and monitoring deer populations and how the disease might impact humans in the surrounding area. I also enjoyed watching the collaboration between these two departments.”

Looking ahead, Jenkins is eager to encounter rare diseases and continue learning, she said. She values the opportunity to educate and communicate with diverse groups, drawing on her education minor from Cornell.

“Support systems are important when you’re facing the challenges of veterinary education,” she said. “You need to maintain your perspective, too, and keep an open mind about possible future careers. A veterinary degree opens many doors. You don't have to stay in one field; there are many paths you can take.”

Caroline Stamm ’24 is a communications assistant for the Cornell CALS Department of Animal Science.

Taking the journey from animal science to One Health

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