Dr. Joseph “Joe” Gordon, Care First Animal Hospital’s founder and CEO, joined the ranks of NC State University alumni recognized by the College of Agriculture and Life Science during the recent 2016 “Evening of Stars Gala.” Dr. Gordon was awarded as a Distinguished Alumni for 2016.
Dr. Gordon was honored for his continuing commitment to community, education, and animal welfare, which was highlighted in 2014, when he and his wife Deborah, made a $3 million gift to the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, launching the “Farm to Philanthropy” program to expand rural student access to an NC State education. The gift ensures high school students have access to opportunities to prepare for entrance examinations at the university, as well as, opportunities to attend community college programs in preparation for transfer to NC State degree programs. Additionally, students have the opportunity to graduate debt-free by applying for a “Farm to Philanthropy” scholarship after earning expenses for their first semester.
Dr. Gordon joins an elite list of NC State’s graduates. Past event honorees include such notables as William Friday, Gov. Jim Hunt, Roy Park, Jim and Ann Goodnight, Bill Cowher, Jim Valvano, as well as, many others.
“Dr. Joe Gordon is one of NC State’s finest,” says Dean Richard Linton. “He and his wife, Debbie, are great believers in NC State’s land-grant mission. They both have a passion for students and philanthropy – not only to be philanthropic, but to help instill a love of giving in others.”
Dr. Gordon has led the way in working with rescue groups in Wake county such as the SPCA, Second Chance Pet Adoption and the Neuse River Golden Retriever Rescue, inspiring other veterinarians in the region to do the same. His practice, Care First Animal Hospitals of Wake County, donates more than $250,000 annually in professional services to the SPCA of Wake County in support of their mission.