Dr. Patterson is a veterinarian, educator, and academic leader dedicated to expanding opportunity and excellence in the health professions. She currently serves as the founding dean of the proposed Chicago College of Veterinary Medicine at Midwestern University in Downers Grove, Illinois, where she is leading the development of a new veterinary medical program designed to prepare the next generation of veterinary professionals. A board-certified veterinary internist, Dr. Patterson has built a distinguished career spanning clinical medicine, higher education leadership, and student mentorship.

Raised on Chicago’s Southeast Side, a graduate of Whitney Young High School, and a CAHMCP alumna, Dr. Patterson’s journey into veterinary medicine began early through a love of animals and a strong foundation in science and education. She earned both her undergraduate degrees in Animal Science and Veterinary Science and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Following an internship and residency at Michigan State University, she became a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, establishing herself as a specialist in small-animal internal medicine.

Throughout her career, Dr. Patterson has held numerous academic and leadership roles, including Associate Dean for Academic Programs and Student Affairs at Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Associate Dean for Clinical Education at Midwestern University, and Director of Student Success at The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine. She has also served as President of the National Association for Black Veterinarians and remains deeply committed to mentoring future veterinary professionals, advancing diversity in the field, and strengthening pathways into veterinary and health careers.

Dr. Patterson joined the CPASS Foundation Board of Directors in 2026, bringing a vital veterinary and One Health perspective to the organization’s work. As both an educator and advocate, she is passionate about expanding awareness of veterinary medicine and animal health careers among young people—particularly students from communities historically underrepresented in the sciences. Her leadership reflects a lifelong commitment to opening doors, mentoring the next generation, and ensuring that talented students can see themselves in the future of health and science.

Discover more about Dr. Patterson’s career here.

Learn more about the proposed Chicago College of Veterinary Medicine.