Local vet honored as Title IX Trailblazer

According to Morgan Cullan, Title IX Coordinator, the award recognizes Rankin’s outstanding service to the Nebraska Panhandle and region.

Cullan said Rankin earned her Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from Kansas State University in 1992 when men significantly outnumbered women in the field.

“Dr. Rankin has made remarkable contributions to the field of Veterinary Medicine. She provides exceptional care for large animals, including bovine, and horses. Despite the challenges and injuries that eventually sidelined her ability to work with large animals, her pioneering spirit never faltered,” Cullan said.

In 2012, Rankin moved from Burwell, Nebraska, to Crawford, Nebraska, with just $1,000 and established a practice focused primarily on small animals. By 2020, her practice had expanded to include a second office in Chadron, demonstrating her incredible dedication and success, according to Cullan.

“Dr. Rankin says her greatest achievement, however, is the raising of her two children. Her advice for anyone with a dream is never to let anyone talk you out of it or tell you you're not smart enough. If you put your mind to it, you can achieve anything,” Cullan said. “This award honors her ongoing work and support for the Panhandle. Her pioneering work and commitment to excellence inspire us all.”

Other Title IX 50^th anniversary events planned for the fall semester include a Title IX themed Graves Lecture series. The 50^th Anniversary of Title IX will be celebrated at Chadron State College through the Fall 2025 semester.