Whitney FFA at Whitney High School has been awarded a $5,000 grant from The George G. and Alva Hudson Smith Foundation to help establish a Dog Grooming and Veterinary Science Lab, expanding opportunities for students pursuing careers in veterinary science, animal care and agriculture.
The grant will fund essential equipment for the new lab, including professional grooming tables, dryers, clippers, grooming tools, storage, kennels and sanitation equipment. The facility, located in the Whitney High School Agriculture Building, will provide students with a dedicated space to develop practical skills through hands-on learning and industry-focused training.
The project is led by Lauren Girsh, Whitney High School’s animal science agriculture teacher, who brings an associate degree in veterinary technology from McLennan Community College and more than 10 years of professional experience in the veterinary field. Her experience and passion for agricultural education will help students connect classroom instruction with real-world career opportunities.
“This grant is an exciting investment in our students and their futures,” said Whitney High School Principal Kendra Hensley. “We want our students to graduate with more than a diploma. We want them to have the skills, experience and confidence to pursue meaningful careers. This lab will give our students the opportunity to explore their interests, develop valuable industry skills and take important steps toward careers in veterinary science and animal care.”
The lab will serve students throughout the animal science career pathway, with an initial goal of training at least 25 FFA members in dog grooming and basic veterinary assisting skills during the first year. The program also aims to expand certification opportunities, with the long-term goal of helping students earn their Level 1 Certified Veterinary Assistant (CVA) certification while still in high school. By combining technical instruction with hands-on experience, the lab will help students prepare for postsecondary education and employment in the growing animal care industry.
The project is also designed to benefit the Whitney community. Once services are established, the program plans to provide affordable grooming services for local pet owners and collaborate with animal shelters and rescue organizations to help prepare animals for adoption. Additional plans include community workshops, pet care education and school outreach focused on responsible animal interactions and bite prevention.
The grant will help transform an existing room in the agriculture building into a functional learning environment that supports both student development and community engagement. The program is expected to serve more than 50 Animal Science students annually as the pathway continues to grow.
Whitney FFA has a long history of providing students with agricultural education, leadership development and career preparation. Through programs in animal science, plant science and agricultural mechanics, students gain opportunities to develop technical skills, earn industry-based certifications and explore future careers.
The Dog Grooming and Veterinary Science Lab represents another step in Whitney High School’s commitment to providing relevant, hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for life after graduation.
“We are grateful for the support that makes opportunities like this possible,” the principal added. “This project is about more than equipment. It is about opening doors for our students, meeting the needs of our community and building a stronger pathway from high school to future careers.”
Whitney High School students are receiving new career training opportunities thanks to a grant from The George G. and Alva Hudson Smith Foundation.
