William Woods University celebrated the completion of its new Center for Equine Medicine, a state-of-the-art clinical care facility.
The facility is dual purpose; it will be used as a clinical care facility for the care of WWU's horses and for the education of students.
Biology/pre-veterinary and equestrian studies students will use the center, a WWU release states.
The 8,700 square foot Center for Equine Medicine is located half a mile away from the main WWU campus, and is situated on 17 acres.
The cost of the new facility was $1.7 million, and funding came from private donors, according to a release.
Construction began in 2017, and the facility was built in different sections.
The center contains several different areas, all with different purposes for either the students or the horses. There is a classroom space for students to attend class, an indoor riding facility, six horse stalls and an isolation area for sick horses.
WWU's veterinarian and his family live on-site at the center, and is available around the clock in case of an emergency.
WWU President Jeremy Moreland said he is very proud of the national and international reputation WWU has in the equestrian field.
He said students from all across the country attend WWU for the equestrian program.
"There are many families who, for generations, have loved horses and growing as equestrians. But we're providing the professionals that they need to ride safely, on animals that are well cared for, for generations and their families," Moreland said.
Moreland cut a ribbon with the Callaway Chamber of Commerce to celebrate the facility's completion.
"It is with great pleasure that we formally dedicate the William Woods Center for Equine Medicine today, which will serve as another impressive asset to our nationally-renowned, elite equestrian studies program," Moreland said.