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By Crystal Reith Becoming a veterinarian was always something Dr. Mariah Beckmann wanted to do.
“I really wanted to be a vet because I grew up with large animals and was always helping out with chores,” said Beckmann, who grew up on her family’s dairy and Berkshire hog farm near Slayton. “I’ve always had a passion for helping animals.”
In addition to her childhood experiences, she credits her grandparents, parents, Dr. Jenn Reith and Dr. Connie McNab for their influence in her decision to become a veterinarian.
“My grandparents and parents introduced me to the world of large animals,” said Beckmann, daughter of Dave and Jodi Beckmann. “Shadowing Dr. Jenn and Dr. Connie grew my passion of veterinary medicine and solidified that it was what I wanted to do when I got older.”
Beckmann encourages those interested in pursuing a career in veterinary medicine to work with their local vet clinic.
“Find out if it’s truly what you want to do,” said Beckmann. “It’s a great eight years, but it’s a long journey so make sure it’s definitely what you want to do with your life.”
Upon graduation from Murray County Central in 2017, Beckmann pursued a bachelor’s degree in animal science from South Dakota State University. She received her undergraduate degree in May of 2021. By completing the required pre-veterinary curriculum, she was then admitted into the first class of SDSU’s professional program in veterinary medicine. The program is a collaborative effort between SDSU and the University of Minnesota. Participants complete the first two years of their Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at SDSU and then transfer to the University of Minnesota’s College of Veterinary Medicine for the final two years of educational instruction. Beckmann graduated from the inaugural program in May of 2025.
Beckmann will begin her new role as a veterinarian at Rural Legacy Veterinary Clinic in Slayton on June 16. “I want to give back to people who had an influence in my life,” said Beckmann, currently of Westbrook. “My whole family is here. Everyone in Slayton is so friendly, and I have always felt welcome here.”
At Rural Legacy Vet Clinic, Beckmann will work with both large and small animal clients and hopes to get to know more people.
“I look forward to getting to know more of our clients,” said Beckmann. “I’m excited to be doing what I’ve learned for so many years. I look forward to getting more hands-on skills.”
Beckmann also looks forward to building her confidence in herself and being better equipped to handle different cases as she applies years of education.
“I look to be more proficient in areas. Through continuing education, I hope to gain more skills that I can bring back to our area,” said Beckmann. “I’m excited to help serve our area.”
