April 29, 2025
Photo by Karen Clifford
Raised on a hobby farm in Moscow Mills, Missouri, Kyleigh Stagner spent her early years learning to ride horses from her mother and grandfather while her father taught her how to care for their small cattle herd.
Those lessons shaped Stagner’s future and led toward a career in veterinary medicine.
“I’ve always been drawn to bridging the gap between animals and humans,” she said. “Veterinary medicine isn’t just about diagnosing and treating patients — it’s also about having the empathy and communication skills to support and educate their owners.”
Now a first-year student at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM), Stagner has found a place where she feels at home. She’s immersed herself in activities, serving as a CVM student ambassador and participating in multiple clubs, including the Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Club, the Theriogenology Club, and the Emergency Medicine Club. She’s also a member of the Foal Team, where she gains hands-on experience caring for newborn foals.
“Being involved is what keeps me going,” she said. “It fuels me and motivates me to keep pushing through the tough parts of vet school.”
She said that sense of community — both in and outside the classroom — is what makes Mizzou so special.
“No matter where I go, I’m surrounded by people who care,” she said. “Mizzou’s faculty are approachable and eager to teach, and there’s such a strong sense of community.”
As a student ambassador, Stagner is committed to helping future veterinary students see themselves at Mizzou.
“I love talking to pre-vet students because I was in their shoes not too long ago,” she said.
While still fond of horses, Stagner’s clinical experiences at the CVM have drawn her toward small animal emergency and critical care.
“I love the adrenaline of not knowing what’s going to come through the door next,” she said. “And I can’t wait to get hands-on experience with all the state-of-the-art technology at Mizzou. It’s exciting to know that when I graduate, I’ll have those skills in my back pocket.”
After graduation, Stagner’s ultimate plan is to relocate to Springfield, Missouri, where she has already built strong mentorship connections with small animal practice owners.
“Coming to Mizzou is one of the best decisions I’ve made,” Stagner said. “It’s not just about the education — it’s about the people who are here, the support and the opportunities. I’m proud to be a part of it.”
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