2008-08-04 23:40:03 -
- A $25,000 unrestricted gift to Cornell's College of Veterinary Medicine from Plainfield Asset Management, LLC, of Greenwich, Conn., will strengthen the College's commitment to equine education and research. Plainfield has investments in Tioga Downs, Vernon Downs, both New York horse racing facilities, is the principal investor in Capital Play, one of the bidders for the video lottery terminal at
Aqueduct Race Track and has other horse racing and gaming interests globally.
"The College's equine research and clinical programs offer cutting edge advances in equine health, including regenerative medicine, reproduction, genetics, and orthopedics," said Michael Kotlikoff, the Austin O. Hooey Dean of Veterinary Medicine. "With few sources of extramural research support, equine sports medicine relies heavily on the generosity of the racing community. We are extraordinarily grateful for the unrestricted gift in support of equine research from Plainfield Asset Management."
The College of Veterinary Medicine will use the gift to support Cornell's equine Clinical Fellowship, held by Dr. Sophy Jesty, DVM '01. The two-year Clinical Fellows Program - launched this month - is the first in the country to address a growing shortage of academic veterinarians who conduct research on animal diseases under the guidance of world-renowned Cornell faculty. The rigorous program, with costs estimated at $220,000 per student, showcases the excitement of discovery and academic medicine.
"Plainfield Asset Management is pleased to make this gift to the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in support of the College's outstanding programs in equine research and to acknowledge the importance of the College to New York State Racing," said Harold Levy, managing director - special counsel for Plainfield Asset Management. "The gift, which we understand will help to train the next generation of equine researchers and educators, is an investment in a bright and viable future - for education, for the horseracing industry, and for the state's economy."
For Plainfield Asset Management, LLC:
Stephanie Specchio, 607-253-3369
607-331-4276
sas6@cornell.edu 
