MSU honors Dr. Philip Prater with naming at University Farm

Morehead State University is proud to announce the approval of a newly named space within the Derrickson Agricultural Complex in recognition of Professor Emeritus Dr. Philip Prater’s extraordinary contributions to MSU and the field of veterinary science.

The facility will be designated as the Dr. Phil Prater Equine Health and Education Center, serving as a lasting tribute to his impact on students, colleagues, and the veterinary profession.

This honor follows the successful launch of the Dr. Philip Prater Scholarship Endowment Fund. The fund was announced as a surprise during Dr. Prater’s retirement reception and has been championed by veterinarians, alumni, and professional organizations, including the Kentucky Veterinary Medical Association (KVMA), ensuring its long-term sustainability.

Prater began his tenure at MSU in 1998 as an assistant professor of veterinary technology. Over his 25-year career, he profoundly shaped the veterinary science program through his teaching, mentorship, and leadership. Alongside Dr. Judy Willard, then director of equine science, he also secured funding for the Equine Health Education Center and guiding pre-veterinary students as a faculty advisor to the Pre-Vet Club.

Beyond the classroom, Prater held leadership roles in the KVMA, Kentucky Cattleman’s Association, and the American College of Theriogenologists. His scholarly contributions include peer-reviewed publications and book chapters on animal reproduction. His distinguished career earned numerous accolades, including:

• Veterinarian of the Year (2006) – Kentucky Veterinary Medical Association
• Outstanding Senior Teacher Award – American Association of Colleges of Agriculture and Renewable Resources
• MSU Distinguished Teacher Award (2008)
• Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine Outstanding Alumni (2017)
• KVMA Distinguished Service Award (2018)
• Public Service Award, Kentucky Forage and Grasslands Council (2025)

“I am honored and humbled by this recognition,” Prater said. “Working at Morehead State was the best job I could have ever dreamed of. Watching students grow into skilled professionals and knowing I played a small part in their success has been the greatest privilege of my career.”

The Dr. Phil Prater Equine Health and Education Center is part of a comprehensive pre-veterinary medicine and veterinary technology facility renovation project.

“Dr. Prater’s legacy is one of excellence, service, and unwavering dedication to his students and profession,” said MSU President Dr. Jay Morgan. “The naming of this space, along with recent renovations, ensures his influence will continue to inspire future generations of veterinary professionals while providing state-of-the-art resources and hands on learning experiences.”

The MSU Board of Regents approved the naming of the Center during its November board meeting. A ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the naming and recent facility renovations is planned for February.

For more information about the Dr. Philip Prater Scholarship Endowment Fund, contact the MSU Foundation at 606-783-2033 or email giving@moreheadstate.edu.

To learn more about MSU’s Derrickson Agricultural Complex and the veterinary sciences program, visit www.moreheadstate.edu/science.