Deans, Dollars, and Divided Duties: The ethics of academic leadership on corporate boards (#334)

In academia, integrity and transparency aren’t just ideals. They're the foundation of public trust. But when university leaders step into the boardrooms of powerful corporations, that foundation is tested.

The veterinary profession, long grounded in public service, science, and education, is now wrestling with uncomfortable questions about conflicts of interest and conflicts of commitment. And recent high-profile cases show just how blurry the lines can become.

What’s the Difference?

A conflict of interest (COI) arises when a person’s personal financial interests could compromise their professional judgment.

A conflict of commitment (COC), on the other hand, happens when outside responsibilities interfere with the obligations owed to the university, usually involving time, attention, or institutional loyalty.

Both are serious.

One challenges integrity.

The other challenges productivity and institutional allegiance.

Purdue University and Zoetis

Dr. Willie Reed served as Dean of Purdue University’s College of Veterinary Medicine for nearly two decades. During a portion of that tenure, he also served on the board of Zoetis, a global animal health company. In 2014, a Reuters investigation raised concerns about potential conflicts. While earning a full-time dean’s salary, Dr. Reed allegedly received over six figures in cash and stock per year from Zoetis.

Though there was no formal accusation of misconduct, critics warned of an ethical smog, where decision-making in public institutions becomes clouded by corporate affiliations. Despite these concerns, Dr. Reed retired in 2024 with honors and continues to serve on the Board of Directors of Zoetis. Purdue’s diagnostic lab now bears his name.

UC Davis and Zoetis

Fast forward to 2025. Dr. Mark Stetter, the current Dean of the UC Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, has recently been appointed to the Board of Directors of Zoetis. Like Dr. Willie Reed, Dr. Stetter brings extensive experience in veterinary medicine. And like Dr. Reed, he will serve a dual role: full-time academic leader and corporate board member.

The optics are  troubling.

How can a dean charged with preparing future veterinarians make unbiased decisions when simultaneously advising a for-profit pharmaceutical giant?

UC Davis has strict policies requiring the disclosure of outside engagements, but questions remain.

Is this simply a matter of “legality?”

Is it ethically defensible?

Why This Matters

From pharmaceutical partnerships to practice acquisitions by private equity veterinary medicine is under increasing corporate influence. The profession is at a crossroads.

When university leaders step into corporate roles, whether on advisory boards or executive panels, the independence of public veterinary education is called into question.

Do these appointments bring valuable industry insights? Possibly… But they also erode public confidence and may impair academic objectivity, particularly when institutions receive funding from the very companies their deans are advising.

Rick’s Commentary

Perception is reality.

As the UC system's own policies make clear, even the perception of a conflict can do real harm. Universities must do more than manage the letter of the law, they must uphold its spirit. That means strong oversight, full disclosure, and a cultural shift toward accountability and transparency.

When a profession charged with animal health and public trust loses its compass, it’s not just the reputation of a university that suffers, it’s the future of veterinary medicine itself.

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