Club History
​
Club Animalia was created in 2006 by then Biology student, Molly Lien (Biology alum, Hope College 2007). Molly was a pre-veterinary student who was interested in starting a club for students who had a love for animals and the human-animal bond, but who were not necessarily Biology majors. She was also interested in a club that was focused in community service, outreach, and fundraising efforts and wanted a club that provided a “home” for students who wished to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. At the time, such an organization at Hope College did not exist. Molly contacted Dr. Fraley and together they proposed the formation of such a club to the Director of Student Life. After review the formation of the club was approved and officially began during the spring semester of 2006.
Since that time, Club Animalia has been a force of outreach and community service projects including Zoo-2-U, a Veterinary Science class with the Ottawa County 4H, Harbor Humane Society, Finals Stress Relief with therapy dogs, and numerous fundraising and charity events. Every year the club also attends the annual American Pre-Veterinary Medical Association National Symposium.
Molly Lien went on to veterinary school and is now Dr. Molly Lien, a mixed animal practitioner in Michigan.
+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +
Awards
​ Club Animalia has been honored to receive the 2012-2013, 2013-2014, 2014-2015, 2015-2016, and the 2019-2020 national "Outstanding Community Service Award" from the American Pre-veterinary Medical Association (APVMA). This award is granted to the club that has completed the most community service and outreach projects throughout the current school year attending the APVMA conference. This distinction sets Club Animalia apart from other pre-veterinary clubs at schools across the U.S. who have many more members.
+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +