Washington State University veterinary student Taythen Larson has been announced as a recipient of the 2025 Nandi Theriogenology Scholarship, one of the most competitive scholarships in veterinary reproductive medicine.
Awarded annually by the Theriogenology Foundation, the Nandi Scholarship recognizes four veterinary students who demonstrate exceptional potential for clinical and scholarly excellence, as well as leadership in theriogenology, a specialized branch of veterinary medicine focused on animal reproduction. Larson is the fifth WSU student to receive the honor in the past three years.
“Receiving the Nandi Award from the Society for Theriogenology is an incredible honor, and I am truly grateful for this recognition,” Larson said. “Theriogenology is a field I am deeply passionate about, and this award is a reflection of the guidance, mentorship, and opportunities I have been fortunate to receive along the way.”
Larson is set to graduate with his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine on May 4. He is currently interviewing for positions in private practice and hopes to specialize in mixed large animal medicine, with a strong focus on reproductive services.
I am truly honored to be part of such a dedicated group of professionals and look forward to applying what I’ve learned to help advance reproductive medicine in veterinary practice.
Taythen Larson, WSU veterinary student and recipient of the 2025 Nandi Theriogenology Scholarship
Dr. Ramanathan Kasimanickam, an associate professor and bovine reproduction specialist at WSU, nominated Larson for the scholarship.
“Taythen excelled in both the theoretical and clinical aspects of theriogenology, demonstrating a strong grasp of both individual and population reproductive medicine,” Kasimanickam said. “Most importantly, Taythen exhibited outstanding leadership qualities while working with both students and producers, making him highly deserving of the Nandi Scholarship.”
He also received letters of recommendation from Dr. M. Salman Waqas, an assistant professor in comparative theriogenology, and Dr. Tanya Weber (’24 DVM), who served as a peer mentor to Larson. He expressed gratitude for the mentorship and training he has received throughout his veterinary education at WSU.
“I owe much of this achievement to the support of my mentors, colleagues, and the veterinary community, who have inspired and encouraged me to keep learning and growing. This recognition motivates me to continue developing my skills and contributing to the field in any way I can,” he said. “I am truly honored to be part of such a dedicated group of professionals and look forward to applying what I’ve learned to help advance reproductive medicine in veterinary practice.”
Larson will be recognized and receive an award of $10,000 in July during the Society of Theriogenology’s annual Therio Conference.
