Dr. Victor Perman earned his bachelor’s degree in 1953, his D.V.M. in 1955, and his Ph.D. in 1962, all from the University of Minnesota. Over the course of his career, he made significant contributions to veterinary clinical pathology, particularly through his work on hematology and cytology, and won several teaching awards. Dr. Perman also wore several administrative hats at the University, including chair of Clinical Pathology (1983-1989), associate dean for research and graduate studies (1992-1997), and director of the Veterinary Hospital Laboratories. Dr. Perman retired from the University in 2001.

Interview Abstract

Dr. Victor Perman begins his interview with a reflection on where he was born and raised, his time in the Navy, and his interest in pursuing veterinary medicine. He then describes his education at the University of Minnesota’s College of Veterinary Medicine, his work in the clinical pathology laboratories, his pursuit of a Ph.D., and his research at Brookhaven National Library and at the University of Minnesota. Dr. Perman then describes W.T.S. Thorp’s tenure as dean; funding for the College and accreditation issues; relations between the College and Minnesota farm groups; shortages of veterinarians; veterinary medicine and public health; the creation of the new University Veterinary Hospital; and emerging medical technologies in the 1960s and 1970s.

In part two of his interview, Dr. Perman begins by discussing Sidney Ewing’s tenure as dean and the reorganization of the College. He then reflects on efforts to align the College with the other health sciences, Robert Dunlop’s tenure as dean and his reorganization of the College, collaborations within and outside the College, and evaluation procedures within the College.

Biographical Sketch

Victor Perman was born on January 28, 1926 on a dairy farm near Greenwood, Wisconsin. After graduating from high school in 1943, he enlisted in the Navy and served in the Pacific theatre during World War II. He returned to his family’s farm but ultimately decided to continue his education through his G.I. Bill. He earned his bachelor’s degree in 1953, his D.V.M. in 1955, and his Ph.D. in 1962, all from the University of Minnesota. He conducted his Ph.D. research at Brookhaven National Laboratory. Over the course of his career, he made significant contributions to veterinary clinical pathology, particularly through his work on hematology and cytology, and won several teaching awards. Dr. Perman also wore several administrative hats, including chair of Clinical Pathology (1983-1989), associate dean for research and graduate studies (1992-1997), and director of the Veterinary Hospital Laboratories. Dr. Perman retired from the University in 2001, but remained active at the University and in his church. He died on December 11, 2011.

Interview Transcript
VPerman.pdf