First Woman to Graduate Texas A&M Vet School, Dr. Sonja Lee, Retires at 83

A Lubbock veterinarian, a trailblazer for women in the field of animal medicine, is set to retire after nearly sixty years of dedicated service to pets throughout West Texas.

As Dr. Sonja Lee approaches her 83rd birthday at the end of the month, she prepares to conclude her distinguished career in tandem with her devoted partner, Dr. John Smith Jr. The duo will mark the end of an era as Ark Hospital for Pets officially closes its doors on August 22.

“I can recall the dog's name, but the person's escapes me,” Lee quipped, reminiscing about the countless patients she has cared for. “We welcome strays and similar situations, and we have successfully placed most of them in loving homes.”

Her path started well before she set foot in veterinary school. In her childhood, she became the go-to person when a neighbor’s duck suffered a broken leg, expertly mending it with duct tape and popsicle sticks, all while following her father's instructions. In the fourth grade, her aspirations to join 4-H were met with disappointment when she was informed that her gender barred her from participation.

She pressed on, undeterred. In 1963, Texas A&M University, an all-male military institution at the time, welcomed women for the first time, and Lee seized the opportunity to apply. In a groundbreaking achievement, she made history in 1966 by becoming the first woman to graduate from the College of Veterinary Medicine.

The decision faced its share of dissenting voices. Lee held onto correspondence from detractors, one of which stated, “I sincerely hope some young man is not being deprived of entering this fall because the college had to get a girl in by then.” Her daughter remembers that her mother faced death threats and became a subject of discussion on radio talk shows.

Lee dismissed the uproar surrounding the issue. “I’m just thankful to have been born in the right year,” she remarked.

Following her graduation, she initiated a small animal practice right from her home, eventually establishing Ark Hospital for Pets in 1976 on South Avenue P. Throughout the years, she welcomed advancements in technology and medicine, yet her profound love for animals remained unwavering. Generations of clients have walked through her doors, bringing not just their children, but now their grandchildren, along with their beloved pets.

Despite Lee's reluctance to embrace the title of "pioneer," the landscape of the veterinary profession has undergone significant transformation since her time at A&M. Across the nation, women constitute approximately 75 percent of veterinary students.

Dr. Smith, a colleague of 14 years, referred to her as “a dynamo” and commended her unwavering dedication. “She is a knowledgeable individual, and I believe our collaboration was effective.” He remarked, “Clients truly adore her, and they consistently seek her company.”

A community celebration is set to take place on Friday, Aug. 22, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Ark Hospital, where both veterinarians will be recognized for their contributions.

Lee expresses that her journey with animals is far from over. In her retirement, she remains committed to assisting strays and utilizing her skills in any way possible.

“I just adore them,” she expressed with sincerity.

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