Topics of articles in this issue of Cornell Veterinary Medicine include: Surpassing Clinical Excellence: A Message from the Dean (Donald F. Smith); First Do No Harm: The Case for Companion-Animal Erythropoietin; Caring for a Higher Plane; CUHA Implements Clinical Career Ladder Program; Saving an Alpaca with a Pack of Problems; Honoring Pets and People We Love: Memorial Gift Programs; CUHA Farrier Joins Distinguished Company; People, Honors, and Awards; National Academy of Veterinary Medicine; New Faculty; Alumnus Jack Mara Retires; Coming Events.