From Baton Rouge to the DMV, LSU alumna Dr. Derecka Alexander is leading with purpose in veterinary medicine and beyond.
When Dr. Derecka Alexander arrived at LSU, she was searching for more than just a degree—she wanted a place that would challenge her academically while immersing her in a vibrant campus community. What she found at LSU would ultimately shape not only her education but her entire career trajectory.
Today, Alexander is a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine based in Arlington, Virginia, serving the DMV (Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia) metro area. Her journey—from undergraduate studies at LSU to veterinary medicine, public policy, and entrepreneurship—is a testament to the power of an LSU education.
Alexander graduated from LSU in 2011 with dual undergraduate degrees in Biological Sciences and Animal, Dairy and Poultry Science. She later returned to earn her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine in 2018.
“Beyond earning my degree, LSU gave me the lagniappe—the extra leadership skills, resilience, and adaptability—that became the true foundation of my career,” Alexander said. “That added layer of preparation has allowed me to pivot confidently and grow comfortable navigating the uncomfortable in a multifaceted profession.”
Her decision to attend LSU was immediate. After visiting campus during a spring invitational, she knew it was the right fit.
“It was clear that LSU was a place where I could grow academically while fully immersing myself in student life,” she said.
While at LSU, Alexander fully embraced opportunities outside the classroom. She participated in LSU Summer Scholars programs, volunteered at freshman events, and conducted agricultural research.
“I had the opportunity to conduct research at an R1 institution and gained hands-on experience working with food animals like dairy cattle,” she said. “That combination of rigorous academics, research exposure, and practical experience not only prepared me well for veterinary school but also shaped me into a more well-rounded and service-oriented professional.”
Her commitment to service and leadership was evident across campus. She served as a member of LSU Ambassadors, where she learned discipline, teamwork, and how to represent the university with professionalism. As volunteer chair of the LSU Pre-Veterinary Club, she organized service initiatives that united members around a shared purpose.
“At LSU, I learned that leadership is less about titles and more about service, collaboration, and accountability.”
Alexander was also a member of the Eta Kappa Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, where she developed a deeper understanding of excellence, sisterhood, and uplifting others.
Some of Alexander’s favorite LSU memories happened outside the classroom. She lived in Blake Hall on East Campus and spent time with friends in the Pentagon community—especially during crawfish season.
“Those evenings, gathered around newspaper-covered tables, laughing with friends and eating crawfish, are memories that have stayed with me long after graduation,” she said.
One particularly unique moment? A rare “snow day” in Baton Rouge.
“There was something special about college students pausing their studying, laughing like kids, and fully embracing the moment,” she said. “It perfectly captured LSU’s spirit: hardworking, but never too busy to celebrate community.”
Her go-to study spot—the LSU Vet School Library—remains a standout memory as well.
“With its quiet atmosphere and natural sunlight pouring in, it's the perfect place to focus and reset, especially during finals season,” she said.
After earning her DVM in 2018, Alexander began her career in Las Vegas, Nevada, working in a small animal practice. But her journey didn’t stop there.
She later transitioned into agricultural policy, serving as an American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Fellow at the USDA.
“It was a very challenging experience, where I worked at the intersection of veterinary medicine, public health, and agricultural policy,” she said. “I helped address complex issues like antimicrobial resistance, biosafety, and infectious disease research.”
“LSU prepared me not only with strong clinical and public health training, but with the ability to think critically, collaborate across disciplines, and adapt to new challenges,” she said. “My experiences at LSU contributed to me mastering career pivots.”
Following her fellowship, Alexander once again pivoted—this time into entrepreneurship. She launched her own in-home euthanasia practice while continuing relief veterinary work.
While Alexander’s career has taken her from Louisiana to Nevada to Washington, D.C., one thing has remained constant: the impact of LSU.
“Beyond the traditions, I will always remember the classes and mentors who challenged me academically and pushed me toward veterinary medicine,” she said.
Her story is a powerful example of what it means to be a Geaux Getter—leading with purpose, embracing change, and carrying LSU values wherever life leads.
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