Vet-school-bound Alyssa Dyer named College of Agriculture Dean's Award recipient

Auburn University College of Agriculture graduating senior Alyssa Dyer is the summer 2026 recipient of the Dean's Award, the college's highest honor presented to a graduating senior who exemplifies academic excellence, leadership and service. 

An animal sciences graduation candidate in the pre-veterinary medicine concentration, Dyer transferred to Auburn after attending Chattahoochee Valley Community College. While at Auburn, she distinguished herself through undergraduate research, campus leadership and a commitment to mentoring fellow students as she prepared for a career in veterinary medicine. 

Her advice to incoming Auburn students: Immerse yourself in every opportunity you can. 

"I transferred to Auburn not knowing many people, and getting involved completely changed my college experience. Joining the Pre-Veterinary Medicine Club introduced me to lifelong friends and gave me the opportunity to be mentored by [Associate Professor of Animal Sciences] Dr. Terry Brandebourg, who has had a tremendous impact on my personal and professional growth.” 

Dyer conducted research in the Department of Poultry Science after beginning as a student worker in the Poultry Behavior and Welfare Research Lab. She was selected for Auburn's Undergraduate Research Fellowship, where her independent research focused on keel bone injuries in broiler breeder hens. 

"You never know where one opportunity will lead, so don't be afraid to put yourself out there, try something new, and say yes to experiences that challenge you,” she said. 

Outside the lab, Dyer served in numerous leadership roles within Auburn's Pre-Veterinary Medicine Club and the American Pre-Veterinary Medical Association. She also worked as a veterinary technician at VETsmart Animal Hospital while completing her degree. 

Among her favorite Auburn memories was representing the university at the American Pre-Veterinary Medical Association Symposium. 

"After serving as an APVMA national officer the previous year, it was especially rewarding to return with our club,” she said. “Not only was it an opportunity to learn alongside veterinary professionals and students from across the country, but it was also inspiring to watch our members grow in confidence. Seeing two Auburn students I encouraged to run for APVMA national leadership positions both be elected is something I'll always be proud of. It was an incredible moment that highlighted the strength of Auburn's Pre-Veterinary Medicine Club and the supportive community that has meant so much to me throughout my time here." 

After graduation, Dyer will begin pursuing a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine. She hopes to build a career that combines veterinary practice with mentoring future veterinarians. 

"As the first person in my family to attend medical school and work toward a doctorate, I hope to make a meaningful impact on both the veterinary profession and my community,” she said. “My long-term goal is to practice veterinary medicine while encouraging and mentoring the next generation of veterinarians. Throughout my journey to veterinary school, I have been fortunate to have incredible veterinarians who believed in me, challenged me, and encouraged me to pursue my goals. I hope to have the same positive influence on future students that they had on me."