In 1984 the College of Veterinary Medicine was designated as a Center of Excellence in the area of livestock diseases and human health by the State of Tennessee through the Better Schools Program. The center was initially funded by the State of Tennessee, with matching funds from the College of Veterinary Medicine. In 1989 the center was designated an accomplished Center of Excellence, recognizing its growth and strength. Faculty, in collaboration with others, are involved in cutting edge research in molecular and cellular biology, molecular genetics and virology, and cancer therapy.