Dr. Rick Bachman Memorial Veterinary Medicine Scholarship

The Dr. Rick Bachman Memorial Veterinary Medicine Scholarship Fund is made possible by Napa Humane and benefits current or former residents of Napa County, Solano County, or Lake County. This scholarship is geared towards veterinary students who are committed to practicing companion animal veterinary medicine and plan to give back to their community after graduation. Recipients must attend an accredited veterinary college or veterinary technology program and will receive funding for up to two years while working to complete their degree.

Investing in the Future of Veterinary Medicine

Across the country, the veterinary field is facing a growing crisis — not enough professionals to meet the needs of pets and the people who love them. Clinics are booked out weeks in advance. Animal shelters are holding pets longer, unable to clear them for adoption without timely medical care. And pet owners are struggling to access even basic veterinary services.

This national shortage of veterinarians and registered veterinary technicians (RVTs) has a very real and very local impact — one that Napa Humane is working to address in a lasting, meaningful way.

A Strategic Investment in People

In response to this challenge, Napa Humane launched the Dr. Rick Bachman Memorial Veterinary Medicine Scholarship, providing financial support for students pursuing careers in veterinary medicine and RVT certification.

Managed by the Napa Valley Community Foundation, the scholarship ensures an equitable selection process through school outreach, application reviews, and a dedicated panel of judges. While we can’t guarantee recipients will work at Napa Humane or remain in Napa Valley, we prioritize candidates with local ties — those most likely to stay and serve in our community.

Whether they practice at Napa Humane or elsewhere, supporting up to four new professionals each year helps ease the shortage in the field and expands access to veterinary care for countless animals and families.

Honoring a Legacy

The scholarship is named in memory of Dr. Rick Bachman, affectionately known as “Dr. B” — a beloved Napa Humane veterinarian and a true pioneer in the field. Dr. B was more than a skilled clinician — he was a teacher, a mentor, and a tireless advocate for the next generation of veterinary professionals. After his passing, we felt his absence in many ways, including the loss of that vital connection to emerging talent.

The Dr. Rick Bachman Memorial Veterinary Medicine Scholarship helps carry his legacy forward — continuing to uplift, support, and inspire those who will carry this important work into the future.

A Lasting Impact

Through this program, Napa Humane is helping to build a future where every pet can access the care they deserve.  Because when we invest in people, we invest in the health and wellbeing of animals across our community — and beyond.

To learn more about the Dr. Rick Bachman Memorial Veterinary Medicine Scholarship and how to apply, please visit Napa Valley Community Foundation.  Applications are accepted starting in January for the upcoming academic year.