Reinstate Dr. Waldridge at Mississippi State
The Issue
For the last six years, Dr. Waldridge has not just been a professor at Mississippi State Veterinary School—he has been a mentor, a guide, and an inspiration to hundreds of students aspiring to make their mark in equine veterinary medicine. His dedication to fostering an inclusive learning environment, coupled with his depth of knowledge in veterinary science, has made him an invaluable asset to the university. His departure leaves a void that affects not only the academic progress but the emotional well-being of students who have relied heavily on his guidance. Dr. Waldridge is known for his dedication to equine students; he annual travels to Old Friends Farm in Kentucky for this purpose only.
Dr. Waldridge's teaching methods, anchored in empathy for students, compassion for animals, and respect for humane treatment/ care of horses, have enabled many students to excel, often beyond their expectations. He has been pivotal in shaping the careers of future equine veterinarians, providing not just academic instruction, but real-world wisdom that students carried with them into professional practice. Dr. Waldridge is not only known for his dedication to those interested in equine medicine but also making equine medicine accessible to those who are treating a horse for the first time. You will never meet a human more dedicated to the health and well-being of a foal than Dr. Waldridge.
The decision to not renew Dr. Waldridge's contract was made without adequate input from the school community—a decision that disregards the collective voice of those directly affected. Studies emphasize the importance of experienced, caring professors in boosting student retention and success rates, both areas where Dr. Waldridge has proven his worth time and again. It is a rarity for our clinicians to take the time outside of their normal working hours to devote to the special interests of individual students (or groups of students).
Our petition seeks a reevaluation of this decision. We urge Mississippi State University to prioritize the needs and interests of its students by renewing Dr. Waldridge's contract.
Please sign this petition to demonstrate the overwhelming support Dr. Waldridge has within our community, and to urge the university administration to bring him back to the role where he will be dearly missed. Together, we can advocate for what's right for our education and future.
2,971
The Issue
For the last six years, Dr. Waldridge has not just been a professor at Mississippi State Veterinary School—he has been a mentor, a guide, and an inspiration to hundreds of students aspiring to make their mark in equine veterinary medicine. His dedication to fostering an inclusive learning environment, coupled with his depth of knowledge in veterinary science, has made him an invaluable asset to the university. His departure leaves a void that affects not only the academic progress but the emotional well-being of students who have relied heavily on his guidance. Dr. Waldridge is known for his dedication to equine students; he annual travels to Old Friends Farm in Kentucky for this purpose only.
Dr. Waldridge's teaching methods, anchored in empathy for students, compassion for animals, and respect for humane treatment/ care of horses, have enabled many students to excel, often beyond their expectations. He has been pivotal in shaping the careers of future equine veterinarians, providing not just academic instruction, but real-world wisdom that students carried with them into professional practice. Dr. Waldridge is not only known for his dedication to those interested in equine medicine but also making equine medicine accessible to those who are treating a horse for the first time. You will never meet a human more dedicated to the health and well-being of a foal than Dr. Waldridge.
The decision to not renew Dr. Waldridge's contract was made without adequate input from the school community—a decision that disregards the collective voice of those directly affected. Studies emphasize the importance of experienced, caring professors in boosting student retention and success rates, both areas where Dr. Waldridge has proven his worth time and again. It is a rarity for our clinicians to take the time outside of their normal working hours to devote to the special interests of individual students (or groups of students).
Our petition seeks a reevaluation of this decision. We urge Mississippi State University to prioritize the needs and interests of its students by renewing Dr. Waldridge's contract.
Please sign this petition to demonstrate the overwhelming support Dr. Waldridge has within our community, and to urge the university administration to bring him back to the role where he will be dearly missed. Together, we can advocate for what's right for our education and future.
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Petition created on September 8, 2026