Affiliated groups meet in San Diego

Forty-two allied and other veterinary-related organizations and 29 alumni groups from colleges and schools of veterinary medicine convened this August at the 149th AVMA Annual Convention in San Diego.

These groups engaged in a wide variety of activities during the convention, including lectures, certification examinations, business meetings, workshops, and social gatherings. Many of the organizations co-sponsored the AVMA’s educational sessions.

The following highlights the activities and honors reported by some of these organizations.

Avian pathologists

Event: American Association of Avian Pathologists Inc. meeting, Aug. 4-7, San Diego
Awards: Special Service Award: Dr. A. Gregorio Rosales, Athens, Ala., was recognized for outstanding contributions to the field of avian medicine. Dr. Rosales, who received his DVM degree from the National Autonomous University of Mexico in 1979 and his master’s and doctorate in veterinary microbiology from the University of Georgia in 1983 and 1988, respectively, is vice president of veterinary services at Aviagen Inc. He is known for his expertise in the areas of biosecurity, disease prevention and control, poultry health monitoring, and animal welfare. A diplomate of the American College of Poultry Veterinarians, he is a past chair of the AAAP Scientific Program and the AAAP Animal Welfare and Management Practices Committee. From 2006-2009, Dr. Rosales served on the AVMA Convention Management and Program Committee. Phibro Animal Health Excellence in Poultry Research Award: Dr. David H. Ley, Cary, N.C., for sustained excellence in poultry disease and health for 20 years or more. Dr. Ley, who received his DVM degree in 1982 from the University of California-Davis School of Veterinary Medicine and obtained his doctorate in microbiology from UC-Davis in 1982, is a professor in the Department of Population Health and Pathobiology at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. A diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists, he has made important contributions to research on the transmissibility of live avian Mycoplasma vaccines, the molecular characterization of isolates, and the epidemiology of naturally occurring outbreaks. Dr. Ley has also conducted research on mycoplasmal conjunctivitis caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum in house finches, helped improve the diagnosis of M iowae in turkeys, and elucidated the possible association of M iowae infection with skeletal lesions. Bayer-Snoeyenbos New Investigator Award: Dr. Patti Miller, Loganville, Ga., for research contributions to the field of avian medicine. Dr. Miller, who received her DVM degree from the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine in 1997 and obtained her doctorate in infectious diseases from the university in 2008, is a veterinary medical officer at the Southeast Poultry Research Laboratory, where she investigates Newcastle disease pathogenesis and strategies for its prevention and control. Dr. Miller has studied the importance of antigenic variation of Newcastle disease virus and has examined genetic changes in the virus, leading a group describing a new paramyxovirus subtype. Lasher-Bottorff Award: Dr. Richard P. Chin, Bakersfield, Calif., won this award, given in recognition of an avian diagnostician/technical services veterinarian who has made important contributions to the poultry health program in North America over the past 10 years. A 1983 graduate of the University of California-Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Chin is a professor of clinical diagnostic veterinary medicine at the California Animal Health and Food Safety Laboratory System. He is a diplomate of the American College of Poultry Veterinarians, is a past president of the AAAP, and serves as one of California’s delegates to the National Poultry Improvement Plan. Dr. Chin’s research helped in the recognition of infections with a unique gram-negative bacterium in turkeys, eventually identified as Ornithobacterium rhinotracheale. Bruce W. Calnek Applied Poultry Research Achievement Award: Jack Gelb Jr., PhD, Laudenberg, Pa., for research contributions resulting directly or indirectly in a measurable, practical impact on the control of one or more major diseases of poultry. Dr. Gelb obtained his doctorate in microbiology from the University of Georgia in 1979. He is a professor and chair of the Department of Animal and Food Sciences and director of the Avian Biosciences Center at the University of Delaware. Dr. Gelb’s research focuses on the diagnosis, characterization, and control of infectious bronchitis virus, leading to the development of key IBV vaccines. His work on the IBV field strain Arkansas/3168 resulted in the development of the Ark DPI vaccine strain. Dr. Gelb developed a temperature-sensitive strain of Newcastle disease virus that induces less-stressful reactions but protects against endemic strains of Newcastle disease virus in the country. Outstanding Field Case and/or Diagnostic Report Award: Dr. Robert L. Owen, New Oxford, Pa. Dr. Owen, who earned his VMD degree in 1976 from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine and obtained his doctorate in pathobiology from Pennsylvania State University in 1992, is a senior technical services veterinarian for Huvepharma. He was honored for his report “Hatchery induced Marek’s disease in colored broilers and broiler breeders raised for the live bird market.” Dr. Owen is a diplomate of the American College of Poultry Veterinarians. P.P. Levine Award, presented to the senior author of the best paper published in Avian Diseases: Daral J. Jackwood, PhD, Wooster, Ohio, for “Viral competition and maternal immunity influence the clinical disease caused by very virulent infectious bursal disease virus.” Dr. Jackwood obtained his doctorate in molecular virology from The Ohio State University in 1982. He is a professor in the Department of Veterinary Preventive Medicine and the Food Animal Health Research Program at The Ohio State University’s Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center. Reed Rumsey Student Award: Dr. Julie Kelly, Sioux Falls, S.D., won in the category of clinical research, and Dr. Kyong-il Kang, Athens, Ga., won in the category of basic research. Dr. Kelly is a 2010 graduate of Oregon State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Dr. Kang is a 1996 graduate of Kangwon National University in Korea and obtained his doctorate in pathology and molecular virology from the University of Georgia in 2012. Richard B. Rimler Memorial Paper Scholarship: Dr. Vijay Durairaj, Athens, Ga. Dr. Durairaj is a 2004 graduate of the Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University in India and obtained his doctorate in molecular virology from the University of Georgia in 2012. L. Dwight Schwartz Travel Scholarship: Thomas J. Gaydos, Columbus, Ohio. Gaydos is a fourth-year veterinary student at The Ohio State University. Arnold S. Rosenwald Student Poster Award: Dr. Victor A. Palomino, Athens, Ga., won in the category of applied research, and Nastassja Ortega-Heinly, East Hartford, Conn., won in the category of basic research. Eskelund Preceptorship Awards: Kathleen Beecher, University of Saskatchewan; Elizabeth Dale, University of Georgia; Thomas J. Gaydos, The Ohio State University; Stephen Gibson, Kansas State University; and Charlotte Sanford-Crane, Cornell University
Business: The AAAP met with Dr. Mark Lutschaunig, director of the AVMA Governmental Relations Division, to discuss ways of improving the avian association’s outreach and advocacy. The AAAP also met with Sharon Granskog and Dr. Kimberly May of the AVMA Communications Division to review the value of media training for designated individuals. The AAAP board approved funding for advocacy training and future visits to Washington, D.C., engaging the AAAP Legislative Advisory Committee. The association will be conducting a job search for a new editor for Avian Diseases.
Officials: Drs. Mark C. Bland, Napa, Calif., president; Richard Fulton, Lansing, Mich., president-elect; Charles L. Hofacre, Athens, Ga., secretary-treasurer; Patricia Dunn, University Park, Pa., immediate past president; Daniel A. Bautista, Georgetown, Del., Northeast director; Francene Van Sambeek, Cullman, Ala., Southern director; Eric Gingerich, Zionsville, Ind., Central director; Victoria Bowes, Abbotsford, British Columbia, Western director; and directors-at-large—Drs. Suzanne Dougherty, Huntsville, Ala., and Deirdre Johnson, St. Cloud, Minn.
Contact: Janece Bevans-Kerr, Director of Member Services, American Association of Avian Pathologists, 12627 San Jose Blvd., Suite 202, Jacksonville, FL 32223; phone, (904) 425-5735; fax, (281) 664-4744; aaapaaap [dot] info (aaap[at]aaap[dot]info); website, www.aaap.info

Corporate and public practice veterinarians

Event: American Association of Corporate and Public Practice Veterinarians meeting, Aug. 6, San Diego
Awards: Veterinarian of the Year: Dr. John Briddell, Bloomington, Ind. A 1966 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Briddell retired in 2003 as a technical services manager from Schering-Plough Animal Health. Prior to that, he worked for Pitman-Moore Inc. and Mallinckrodt Veterinary Inc. in professional and technical services. Early in his career, Dr. Briddell served as an associate veterinarian at Georgetown Veterinary Hospital in Charlottesville, Va., practicing companion animal and equine medicine.
Business: A town hall meeting was conducted to determine membership needs with regard to advanced education specific to employment. It was decided that a group of volunteers would form a task force to look into certification, and an aggressive time line would be put in place to determine initial findings. The association will soon serve as a Registry of Approved Continuing Education provider and will conduct multiple webinars offering continuing education credit.
Officials: Drs. James R. Freeman Jr., Franklin, N.C., president; Silene Young, Costa Mesa, Calif., president-elect; Carol Barton, Morristown, N.J., secretary; Norman D. Stewart, Crystal Lake, Ill., treasurer; Lynn Fondon, Dallas, immediate past president; AVMA delegate and alternate delegate—Drs. Brian Huseman, Lenexa, Kan., and Dan Marsman, Mason, Ohio; and board members—Drs. Janet Donlin, Topeka, Kan.; Cori Gross, Bellevue, Wash.; James Hall, St. Joseph, Mo.; Richard Hartigan, Fredericksburg, Va.; and Hilton Klein, Indianapolis
Contact: MaryAnne P. Bobrow, Executive director, American Association of Corporate and Public Practice Veterinarians, 6060 Sunrise Vista Drive, Suite 1300, Citrus Heights, CA 95610; phone, (916) 726-1560; fax, (916) 722-8149; maryanneaacppv [dot] org (maryanne[at]aacppv[dot]org); website, aacppv.org

Food safety veterinarians

Event: American Association of Food Safety Veterinarians meeting, Aug. 6, San Diego
Awards: Food Safety Veterinarian of the Year: Dr. Kristin G. Holt, Winder, Ga. A 1983 graduate of Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Holt has served as liaison from the Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Inspection Service to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention since 2001. Prior to that, she was supervisory veterinary medical officer, inspector-in-charge, circuit supervisor, assistant area supervisor, and deputy district manager in the FSIS Office of Field Operations in Georgia. Dr. Holt was recognized for her service in preventing food-borne illness. President’s Special Award: Dr. Rex D. Holt, Winder, Ga., was honored in appreciation of exceptional contributions in assuming the duties of executive vice president. A 1984 graduate of the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Holt is a supervisory public health veterinarian with the USDA FSIS Office of Field Operations. Earlier in his career, he served as a supervisory veterinary medical officer, inspector-in-charge, circuit supervisor, acting deputy district manager, and acting district manager in the FSIS OFO and was director of meat inspection for the state of Georgia. He is executive vice president of the AAFSV and serves as its alternate delegate to the AVMA House of Delegates.
Officials: Drs. Bonnie Buntain, Calgary, Alberta, president; Stephan Schaefbauer, Raleigh, N.C., president-elect; Jennifer Koeman, Des Moines, Iowa, vice president; Kristal Southern, Washington, D.C., secretary; Thomas Kasari, Fort Collins, Colo., immediate past president; Daniel E. Lafontaine, Bel Air, Md., AVMA delegate; and Rex D. Holt, Winder, Ga., executive vice president and AVMA alternate delegate
Contact: Dr. Rex D. Holt, Executive vice president, American Association of Food Safety Veterinarians, P.O. Box 550, Hoschton, GA 30548; phone, (770) 307-3862; AAFHV_EVPcomcast [dot] net (AAFHV_EVP[at]comcast[dot]net); website, avma.org/About/AlliedOrganizations/Pages/AAFSV.aspx

Human-animal bond veterinarians

Event: American Association of Human-Animal Bond Veterinarians meeting, Aug. 5, San Diego
Business: The board of directors was expanded to include director positions for veterinary students and nonveterinarians. XMI Association Management Services will be handling services for the AAHABV. The association recommitted to the strategic plan of advancing the understanding and importance of the human-animal bond via education and training, strategic alliances, and marketing and websites.
Officials: Drs. Emilia Gordon, Vancouver, British Columbia, president; Marcy Hammerle, O’Fallon, Mo., secretary-treasurer; Robert Downing, Windsor, Calif., immediate past president; directors-at-large­—Drs. Phil Arkow, Stratford, N.J.; Shea Cox, Berkeley, Calif.; Tina Ellenbogen, Bothell, Wash.; Gregg Takashima, Lake Oswego, Ore.; and John Wright, St. Paul, Minn., ; Laura Baltodano, Pullman, Wash., student director-at-large; and Dr. Alice Villalobos, Hermosa Beach, Calif., ex-officio
Contact: Dr. Emilia Gordon, President, American Associ­ation of Human-Animal Bond Veterinarians, Arbutus West Animal Clinic, 2809 W. 16th Ave., Vancouver, BC V6K 3C5; phone, (778) 989-3954; emugordongmail [dot] com (emugordon[at]gmail[dot]com); website, www.aahabv.org

Public health veterinarians

Event: American Association of Public Health Veterinarians meeting, Aug. 6, San Diego
Awards: Student scholarship: Dr. Kelly Patyk, Fort Collins, Colo., and Joelle Glenn, Gainesville, Fla. A 2012 graduate of the Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Dr. Patyk is a veterinary medical officer and veterinary epidemiologist with the Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Glenn is a fourth-year veterinary student at the University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine. She is a member of the Florida State Agricultural Response Team.
Business: The AAPHV developed a brochure for distribution at conferences and symposia and continues to enhance its website, newsletter, and online discussion group, event calendar, and job board. An online wiki site was created by the outreach work group to compile opportunities for students to gain knowledge and experience in public health and preventive medicine, in addition to an image library related to veterinary public health for use by the membership in presentations and documents. The communications work group is exploring opportunities for the AAPHV to participate actively in social media.
Officials: Drs. Millicent Eidson, Albany, N.Y., president; Jeff Baravik, Laurel, Miss., president-elect; Adam Langer, Atlanta, secretary; Louisa Castrodale, Anchorage, Alaska, treasurer; Tracy DuVernoy, Silver Spring, Md., immediate past president; and directors-at-large—Drs. Kelly Vest, Odenton, Md., and Nora Pihkala, Washington, D.C.
Contact: Dr. Adam Langer, Secretary, American Association of Public Health Veterinarians, 1600 Clifton Road N.E., MS C-01, Atlanta, GA 30333; phone, (404) 639-7335; fax, (404) 639-4441; ALangercdc [dot] gov (ALanger[at]cdc[dot]gov); website, www.aaphv.org

Senior veterinarians

Event: American Association of Senior Veterinarians meeting, Aug. 6, San Diego
Business: Revised bylaws were approved and decisions were made on changes to the association’s website, including the use of PayPal to process membership dues. Dr. Gregg Cutler’s presentation on the use of vector vaccines in the poultry industry was followed by a session of focused questions and comments. The term for current officials and directors was extended to Dec. 31, 2013.
Officials: Drs. G.A. “Bert” Mitchell, Sarasota, Fla., president; Bruce W. Little, Las Vegas, vice president; L. Everett Macomber, Centralia, Wash., secretary; William McEniry, Ashton, Ill., treasurer; Robert Rainier, Fishers, Ind., Eastern region director; Robert A. Dietl, Richfield, Minn., Central region director; and Richard E. Coon, Forest Grove, Ore., Western region director
Contact: Dr. G.A. “Bert” Mitchell, President, American Association of Senior Veterinarians, 5186 Cote du Rhone Way, Sarasota, FL 34238; phone, (941) 320-1997, (941) 921-6426; fax, (941) 923-2640; bert [dot] mitchelltenell [dot] net (bert[dot]mitchell[at]tenell[dot]net); website, aasrv.org

Small ruminant practitioners

Event: American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners meeting, Aug. 4, San Diego
Awards: Don E. Bailey Practitioner of the Year: Dr. Joe Snyder, Portland, Ore. A 1983 graduate of Oregon State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Snyder owned a mixed animal practice in Myrtle Point, Ore., prior to retirement. He now teaches large animal medicine at Portland Community College. George McConnell Award: Dr. Paul L. Jones, Woodburn, Ore., won this award, given in recognition of extraordinary service to both the association and the practice of small ruminant medicine. A 1974 graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Jones owns Woodburn Veterinary Clinic, focusing on camelid medicine and surgery. XIIth International Veterinary Congress Prize: Dr. Cleon V. Kimberling, Fort Collins, won this award, given by the American Veterinary Medical Association in recognition of outstanding service and contributions to the international understanding of veterinary medicine. A 1959 graduate of Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Dr. Kimberling was a member of the veterinary faculty at CSU for more than 40 years, serving as a professor and as Colorado state extension veterinarian. During his career, he traveled to several developing countries, helping livestock producers improve conditions that would lead to increased food and fiber production.
Business: Drs. William P. Shulaw, representing Region 1, and Clifford Shipley, representing Region 3, were re-elected to another two-year term on the board of directors. Changes to the bylaws were approved.
Officials: Drs. Joan Bowen, Wellington, Colo., president and AVMA alternate delegate; Joan D. Rowe, Capay, Calif., president-elect; William Shulaw, Hilliard, Ohio, Region 1 director and secretary; Patty Scharko, Columbia, S.C., Region 2 director and treasurer; Jim Fallen, Albuquerque, N.M., immediate past president; Clifford Shipley, Urbana, Ill., Region 3 director; Annika Rogers, Corvallis, Ore., Region 4 director; and Paul Jones, Woodburn, Ore., AVMA delegate
Contact: Dr. Michelle Kutzler, Public relations committee chair, American Association of Small Ruminant Practitioners, 312 Withycombe Hall, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331; phone, (541) 737-1401; fax, (541) 737-4174; michelle [dot] kutzleroregonstate [dot] edu (michelle[dot]kutzler[at]oregonstate[dot]edu); website, www.aasrp.org

Veterinary toxicologists

Event: American Board of Veterinary Toxicology meeting, Aug. 6, San Diego
Awards: Service Award: Dr. Murl Bailey, College Station, Texas, for his leadership and contributions toward advancing the ABVT mission of certification for veterinarians in the specialty of toxicology. A 1964 graduate of Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Dr. Bailey is a professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology at the college. He is a past president of the ABVT and has served on the ABVT Examination and Constitution and Bylaws committees. Veterinary Toxicology Student Paper Competition: First place, sponsored by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals’ Animal Poison Control Center: Dr. Erin L. Siek, Washington State University, for “A review of domoic acid toxicity and its effects on the health of California sea lions”; second place: Dr. Felicia H. Lew, Washington State University, for “Sea lions with domoic acid toxicity as a model for human lobe epilepsy”; and third place: Dr. Jacob Fillerup, Washington State University, for “Intravenous lipid therapy for small animal toxicoses”
Business: The ABVT strategic plan was completed this year and will be implemented over the next five years. A financial audit covering the past two years was conducted in August.
Officials: Drs. Konnie Plumlee, Gainesville, Mo., president; John Tegzes, Pomona, Calif., secretary-treasurer; and Stephen B. Hooser, West Lafayette, Ind., immediate past president
Contact: Dr. John Tegzes, Secretary-Treasurer, American Board of Veterinary Toxicology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Western University of Health Sciences, 309 E. Second St., Pomona, CA 91766; phone, (909) 469-5652; fax, (909) 469-5635; jtegzeswesternu [dot] edu (jtegzes[at]westernu[dot]edu); website, www.abvt.org

Poultry veterinarians

Event: American College of Poultry Veterinarians meeting, Aug. 4-7, San Diego
Business: The college will be working with a pychometrician this year to complete a standard-setting study, including a job analysis and cut-score determination.
New diplomates: Eight new diplomates were welcomed into the ACPV. They are as follows:

Elena Behnke, Talmo, Ga.
Shahn Bisschop, Brooklyn, South Africa
Denise Brinson, McDonough, Ga.
Rodrigo Espinosa, Athens, Ga.
Rodrigo Gallardo, Auburn, Ala.
Prashant Nighot, Raleigh, N.C.
Peter O’Kane, Ballymena, Northern Ireland
Alexandra Reilley, Athens, Ga.

Officials: Drs. Alex Bermudez, Columbia, Mo., president; Karen B. Grogan, Dacula, Ga., secretary-treasurer; and Eric Jensen, Hunstville, Ala., immediate past president
Contact: Janece Bevans-Kerr, Director of Member Services, American College of Poultry Veterinarians, 12627 San Jose Blvd., Suite 202, Jacksonville, FL 32223; phone, (904) 425-5735; fax, (281) 664-4744; aaapaaap [dot] info (aaap[at]aaap[dot]info); website, www.acpv.info

Veterinary behaviorists

Event: American College of Veterinary Behaviorists meeting, Aug. 8, San Diego
Business: The college has developed an educational book for the public and slated it for publication. In development is a veterinary educational distance-learning program. The ACVB partnered with the Lean On Veterinary Expertise bus tour of eight cities in August and September to bring medically sound solutions to members of the public with pet behavior questions and problems.
Officials: Drs. Jacqui Neilson, Portland, Ore., president; Lore Haug, Sugar Land, Texas, president-elect; Valarie Tynes, Sweetwater, Texas, secretary-treasurer; Melissa Bain, Davis, Calif., immediate past president; and Bonnie Beaver, College Station, Texas, executive director
Contact: Dr. Bonnie V. Beaver, Executive Director, American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, 4474 TAMU, College Station, TX 77843; phone, (979) 845-2351; fax, (979) 845-6978; bbeavercvm [dot] tamu [dot] edu (bbeaver[at]cvm[dot]tamu[dot]edu); website, www.dacvb.org

Veterinary preventive medicine

Event: American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine meeting, Aug. 5, San Diego
Awards: Helwig-Jennings Award: Dr. David R. Smith, Davey, Neb., for outstanding and prolonged service to the ACVPM. A 1983 graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Smith is a professor and extension dairy/beef veterinarian at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. He is known for his expertise in the area of pre-harvest control of shiga toxin–producing Escherichia coli and Salmonella in cattle production. Dr. Smith is a diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. Distinguished Diplomate Award: Dr. Gregory Parham, Mitchellville, Md., for significant contributions to veterinary preventive medicine. A 1980 graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Parham is the acting assistant secretary for administration at the Department of Agriculture in Washington, D.C. Early in his career, he was an Epidemic Intelligence Service officer at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Frank A. Todd President’s Award: Dr. Beth Karp, Atlanta, for meritorious service to the college. A 1993 graduate of Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Karp is a veterinary epidemiologist with the CDC.
Business: Responses from the membership on the college’s recertification plan were received and discussed. Additional debate and work are needed to finalize the plan. The issue of accommodating disabilities during the certification examination is in the process of review. The University of Minnesota’s and The Ohio State University’s residencies and master’s programs in veterinary public health were recognized and certified by the college as meeting core requirements for ACVPM certification.
New diplomates: Thirty-five new diplomates were welcomed into the college following successful completion of the certifying examination. The new diplomates are as follows:

Amanda L. Beaudoin, Minneapolis
Michael J. Berecz, Perryville, Md.
Stephanie D. Butler, Gautier, Miss.
Christopher D. Calloway, Harrison, Ark.
Jeein Chung, St. Paul, Minn.
Leslie E. Cole, Edmond, Okla.
Diane E. Collette, Monument, Colo.
Ross A. Free, Bethesda, Md.
Jodi Freifeld, Manhattan, Kan.
Patti K. Glen, Converse, Texas
Karen Gruszynski, Henrico, Va.
Glenn E. Hansen, Molalla, Ore.
Krista J. Howden, Sherwood Park, Alberta
Barbara L. Jones, Appleton, Wis.
Rachael H. Joseph, San Diego
Gwynne E. Kinley, Hyattsville, Md.
Richard R. Luce, Libreville, Gabon
Michael W. Mahero, St. Paul, Minn.
Megan McCormick, Shelby Township, Mich.
Benjamin Newcomer, Auburn, Ala.
Megin C. Nichols, Santa Fe, N.M.
Darrin D. Olson, Bossier City, La.
Kerry R. Pride, Cheyenne, Wyo.
Eran A. Raizman, West Lafayette, Ind.
Elizabeth J. Rigoni, Gettysburg, Pa.
Justin R. Schlanser, Haslett, Mich.
Heidi A. Schleicher, Ankeny, Iowa
Angela M. Schmillen, Harker Heights, Texas
Monica Selent, Beavercreek, Ohio
Sean V. Shadomy, Gainesville, Ga.
Jonathan P. Shearer, Cascade, Colo.
Ulrike S. Sorge, St. Paul, Minn.
Sarah R. Speth, Berwyn Heights, Md.
Greg Taylor, Clear Lake, S.D.
Csaba Varga, Guelph, Ontario

Officials: Drs. Mo Salman, Fort Collins, Colo., president; Scott Brooks, San Antonio, president-elect; Sherry Burrer, Atlanta, secretary-treasurer; Candace L. McCall, Garden Ridge, Texas, executive vice president; Roger Krogwold, Dublin, Ohio, immediate past president; and councilors—Drs. Paul Garbe, Atlanta; Vicki Fogelman, Carson City, Nev.; and Marianne Ash, Lafayette, Ind.
Contact: Dr. Candace L. McCall, Executive vice president, American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, 21510 Fairview Circle, Garden Ridge, TX 78266; phone, (210) 382-5400; evpacvpm [dot] org (evp[at]acvpm[dot]org); website, www.acvpm.org

Veterinary medical association executives

Event: American Society of Veterinary Medical Association Executives meeting, Aug. 3, San Diego
Awards: Executive of the Year: Valerie Fenstermaker, Sacramento, Calif., for exemplifying the best in association management and continually bringing credit to the profession and the association community. Executive director of the California VMA, Fenstermaker serves as administrator of the CVMA Foundation and is a member of the California Veterinary Medical Reserve Corps board and the Veterinary Insurance Services Company board. She serves on the University of California-Davis/CVMA Don Low Fellowship Committee and is a member of the Animal Care Coalition and Animal Care Conference Committee, which are collaborative efforts between the California Animal Control Directors Association, CVMA, and State Humane Association of California. Distinguished Service Award: Charlene Wandzilak, Hummelstown, Pa., for exceptional service to the ASVMAE, demonstrating initiative, integrity, and commitment in serving the veterinary profession and association colleagues. Executive director of the Pennsylvania VMA, Wandzilak is a past president of the ASVMAE and is past chair of the ASVMAE Communications and Awards committees and the ASVMAE Survey Task Force. She has also served on the ASVMAE Professional Development Committee and the AVMA/ASVMAE Joint Committee. Best in Business Award: The Colorado and Wisconsin VMAs, won this award, given in recognition of successful programs and projects by VMAs that are making a positive impact on the veterinary medical industry. The CVMA partnered with KUSA 9News in Colorado to offer 9PetCheck, a complimentary basic wellness examination and rabies vaccination program, to economically challenged pet owners in the state. The WVMA along with the Professional Dairy Producers of Wisconsin developed the WVMA Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points for Proper Drug Use Plan, a six-step plan addressing not only food safety but also long-term proper drug use in dairies.
Officials: Karlene Belyea, Okemos, Mich., president; David Foley, Lexington, Ky., president-elect; Clare Reagan, Atlanta, secretary; Dina Michel, Hastings, Neb., treasurer; and Dr. Janice Trumpeter, Lakewood, Colo., immediate past president
Contact: Karlene Belyea, President, American Society of Veterinary Medical Association Executives, 2144 Commons Parkway, Okemos, MI 48864; phone, (517) 347-4710; fax, (517) 347-4666; belyeamichvma [dot] org (belyea[at]michvma[dot]org); website, www.vmaexecs.org

Veterinary epidemiologists

Event: American Veterinary Epidemiology Society meeting, Aug. 6, San Diego
Program: The society recognized Dr. James H. Steele, founder of the AVES, who is known for his contributions to veterinary epidemiology, public health, and one health. Dr. Steele gave a report on the AVES. Dr. Eldon H. Uhlenhopp presented information on guidelines for the development of collaborative projects with nonindustrialized countries. Dr. Jack A. Shere reported on the effect of budget reductions on Veterinary Services branch programs at the Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service.
Awards: Karl F. Meyer–James H. Steele Gold Headed Cane Award, sponsored by Hartz Mountain Corporation: Drs. Donald L. Noah, Dayton, Ohio, and Bruce Kaplan, Sarasota, Fla., for advancement of human health through veterinary epidemiology and public health. A 1985 graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine and a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Dr. Noah is the deputy commander of the Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine. Earlier in his career, he served as deputy assistant secretary of defense, deputy assistant secretary in the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Southern Command deputy command surgeon, Department of Defense liaison to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and liaison to the CIA. A 1963 graduate of Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Kaplan is a member of the One Health Initiative team, serves as primary content manager for the One Health Initiative website (www.onehealthinitiative.com), and is contributing editor of the One Health Newsletter. Dr. Kaplan also serves on the Scientific Advisory Board of Veterinaria Italiana and is a member of the editorial advisory board of the journal Infection, Ecology and Epidemiology. Early in his career, he was a public affairs specialist in California and served as staff officer at the Office of Public Health and Science in Washington, D.C. Honorary diplomas were given to Drs. Jack A. Shere, Raleigh, N.C.; Kristy K. Bradley, Oklahoma City, Okla.; George O. Winegar, Howell, Mich.; William F. McCullough, Beaverton, Ore.; Y. M. Saif, Wooster, Ohio; Billy G. Johnson, Conway, Ark.; Eric Fonken, Austin, Texas; and Isabel Narvaiz de Kantor, Buenos Aires, Argentina
Officials: Drs. Charles O. Thoen, Ames, Iowa, president; A.K. Eugster, College Station, Texas, vice president; Georgette Wilson, Secaucus, N.J., secretary; and George W. Beran, Ames, Iowa, immediate past president
Contact: Dr. Charles O. Thoen, President, American Veterinary Epidemiology Society, Iowa State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ames, IA 50011; phone, (515) 294-7608; fax, (515) 294-8500; cthoeniastate [dot] edu (cthoen[at]iastate[dot]edu)

Veterinary medical history society

Event: American Veterinary Medical History Society meeting, Aug. 6, San Diego
Program: President and program chair of the AVMHS, Dr. Martha A. Littlefield, and immediate past president, Dr. Russell W. Currier, presided over the meeting. The program featured several speakers, including Dr. Sam Ridgway, San Diego, on “History of marine mammal veterinary medicine”; and Dr. Monica Murphy, Oakland, Calif., on “Rabid: a cultural history of the world’s most diabolical virus.”
Awards: J. Fred Smithcors Student Veterinary History Essay Contest, sponsored by Dr. William Ryan and an anonymous donor: First place ($750)—Amy Sents, Kansas State University, for “The covert arsenal of biological agents throughout history”; second place ($500)—Tracey L. Mullins, Kansas State University, for “The humble beginnings of the corporate companion animal practice”; and third place ($250)—Katie Beach, Kansas State University, for “The dogs of war: history of the U.S. military dog”
Business: Dr. Russell Currier announced that a fourth regional history program was held at the University of Guelph in Ontario on June 15. The program included papers on bovine tuberculosis, interactions between the U.S. and Canada, early women veterinarians from the University of Guelph and the contributions of wives in support of the university, and the contributions of Dr. Frank Schofield to veterinary pathology and to the recovery of South Korea following its independence in the early 20th century. Dr. Currier reported that the transcription of Burt W. Bierer’s book “American Veterinary History” has been completed and awaits some section illustrations and sponsorship for printing prior to republication in 2013. He acknowledged expert transcription by Dori Douglass working from mimeographed pages with proof-reading assistance from Dr. Howard Erickson and Susanne Whitaker. Plans for a one-day Smithcors History of Veterinary Medicine Symposium, to be held at the AVMA’s sesquicentennial convention in Chicago in July 2013, have been submitted and await confirmation. Lesley Gentry, the society’s liaison to the World Association for the History of Veterinary Medicine, reported that several members were scheduled to speak at the International Congress at Utrecht in The Netherlands on Aug. 22-25, 2012. Dr. Currier described his efforts, as the chair of the AVMHS Essay Contest Committee during the past year, to secure possible sponsors and obtain continued funding for the annual student essay contest. It was announced that the Vet2011 exhibit and some vintage veterinary instruments, assembled by Dr. Fred J. Born for the 2011 meeting in St. Louis, are on permanent display at the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine.
Officials: Dr. Martha A. Littlefield, Baton Rouge, La., president; Dr. Helen Wojcinski, Ann Arbor, Mich., president-elect; Susanne K. Whitaker, Ithaca, N.Y., secretary-treasurer; Dr. Russell W. Currier, Des Moines, Iowa, immediate past president; and members-at-large—Dr. Ana Alcaraz, Claremont, Calif.; Dr. Ronnie Elmore, Manhattan, Kan.; Lesley Ann Gentry, Beloit, Kan.; and Dr. Cynthia Hoobler, Friendswood, Texas
Contact: Susanne K. Whitaker, Secretary-Treasurer, American Veterinary Medical History Society, 23 Wedgewood Drive, Ithaca, NY 14850; phone, (607) 253-3499; fax, (607) 253-3080; skw2cornell [dot] edu (skw2[at]cornell[dot]edu); website, www.avmhs.org

Veterinary medical colleges

Event: Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges, Aug. 6, San Diego
Officials: Drs. Deborah Kochevar, Tufts University Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine, president; Kent Hoblet, Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine, president-elect; Stuart Reid, University of London Royal Veterinary College, secretary; Peter Haynes, Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine, treasurer; Gerhardt Schurig, Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine, immediate past president; and directors-at-large—Drs. Cyril Clarke, Oregon State University College of Veterinary Medicine; Grace Mulcahy, University College Dublin School of Veterinary Medicine; David Hardin, University of Nebraska-Lincoln Professional Program in Veterinary Medicine; Christian Abee, University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center; and Alastair Cribb, University of Calgary Faculty of Veterinary Medicine
Contact: Jeanne Johnson, Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges, 1101 Vermont Ave. N.W., Suite 301, Washington, DC 20005; phone, (202) 371-9195, Ext. 144; fax, (202) 842-0773; jjohnsonaavmc [dot] org (jjohnson[at]aavmc[dot]org); website, www.aavmc.org

Women veterinarians

Event: Association for Women Veterinarians Foundation meeting, Aug. 6, San Diego
Awards: Outstanding Woman Veterinarian of the Year: Dr. Sharon Center, Ithaca, N.Y. A 1975 graduate of the University of California-Davis School of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Center is a professor of medicine in the Department of Clinical Sciences at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. She is known for the innovative use of new drug therapies to improve management of liver disease in dogs and cats and has developed an assay to measure the concentration of serum bile acids. Dr. Center is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (small animal). Judith Spurling Blue Ribbon Award: Dr. Michelle A. Kutzler, Corvallis, Ore., for invaluable service to the AWVF. A 1993 graduate of the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Kutzler is an associate professor in the Department of Animal Sciences at the Oregon State University College of Agricultural Sciences. She is scholarship chair and secretary of the foundation and coordinates the logistics for the annual meeting. Dr. Kutzler is a diplomate of the American College of Theriogenologists.
Officials: Drs. Lisa Freeman, DeKalb, Ill., chair; Michelle A. Kutzler, Corvallis, Ore., scholarship chair and secretary; Elizabeth P. Boynton, Pomona, Calif., treasurer; Chris Stone Payne, Fremont, Calif., awards chair; Debra Nickelson, Phoenix, finance chair; and Stacy L. Pritt, San Diego, immediate past chair
Contact: Dr. Debra Nickelson, Finance chair, Association of Women Veterinarians Foundation, 15653 N. 18th St., Phoenix, AZ 85022; phone, (602) 363-6382; fax, (800) 215-5875; dnickelsonvpl [dot] com (dnickelson[at]vpl[dot]com); website, womenveterinarians.org

Lesbian and gay association

Event: Lesbian and Gay VMA meeting, Aug. 3, San Diego
Program: The president of the AVMA, Dr. Douglas G. Aspros, addressed the association and opened the seminar presented by Brad Sears, JD, founding director of the Williams Institute at the University of California-Los Angeles, on “LGBT people and the veterinary profession: legal requirements to economic benefits.” The seminar was sponsored by Pfizer Animal Health.
Awards: Achievement Award: Dr. Eleanor Green, College Station, Texas. A 1973 graduate of Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Green is Carl B. King dean of the Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences. She was honored for her leadership in enhancing the academic learning environment for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and questioning/queer veterinary students at the college. Dr. Green is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (large animal) and the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners. Leadership Award: Dr. Colin Johnstone, Brookside, Mass. Dr. Johnstone, who earned his BVMS degree from the University of Glasgow in 1967 and obtained his doctorate in parasitology from the University of Pennsylvania in 1977, is a past dean of student services at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine. He was honored for his role as a mentor, role model, and friend to LGBTQ veterinary students at the school “during a more conservative period in society, the veterinary profession, and academia.” Veterinary Student Leadership Award, in the amount of $1,500: Jamilah Cherry (FL ’14), Michael White (KSU ’15), William Giles (WIS ’13), and Dr. Kathryn Kuehl (WIS ’12). Pfizer Animal Health sponsored the awards given to Cherry and White. Hill’s Pet Nutrition were the sponsors of the awards given to Giles and Dr. Kuehl. Veterinary Technician Student Scholarship, sponsored by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, in the amount of $750: Nat Smith, Foothill College
Business: The AAVMC/AVMA Student Climate Survey was discussed. Dr. Sal Jepson filmed volunteer veterinarians and students during the AVMA Annual Convention for the “It Gets Better Project,” to help empower LGBT youth at risk for suicide.
Officials: Dr. Sandy Hazonow, San Francisco, president; Dr. Daniel Edge, Chicago, vice president; John Scroggs, College Station, Texas, secretary; Dr. Wayne Hollingshead, St. Clotilde de Horton, Quebec, immediate past president; Dr. Ken C. Gorczyca, San Francisco, executive secretary; Nikki Wright, Philadelphia, student representative; Lyn Garson, Ellington, Conn., newsletter editor; and members-at-large—Michelle Ardan, Dearborn Heights, Mich.; Dr. Michael Chaddock, Washington, D.C.; Dr. Linda Detweiler, Millstone Township, N.J.; Dr. Chana Eisenstein, Willits, Calif.; Dr. Malcolm Kram, Betterton, Md.; Dr. Patrick Mahaney, West Hollywood, Calif.; Dr. Jennifer Thomas, Ferndale, Mich.; and Tony Wynne, Washington, D.C.
Contact: John Scroggs, Secretary, Lesbian and Gay VMA, 4461 TAMU, Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843; phone, (979) 845-8612; scroggstamu [dot] edu (scroggs[at]tamu[dot]edu); website, lgvma.org

Veterinary medical ethics

Event: Society for Veterinary Medical Ethics meeting, Aug. 6, San Diego
Awards: Shomer Award: Temple Grandin, PhD, was recognized for her visionary contributions to animal welfare and to the practice of veterinary medical ethics. Dr. Grandin, who obtained her doctorate in animal science from the University of Illinois in 1989, is a professor of animal science at Colorado State University and a designer of livestock handling facilities. She is known for her expertise in alleviating fear and anxiety experienced by food animals on their way to slaughter. SVME–Waltham Student Essay Contest: Michael J. White (KSU ’15), won $1,000 for “Anthropocentrism and its bearing on veterinary medicine”
Business: Updated articles and bylaws for the society’s constitution were approved. Drs. Karyl J. Hurley, Leicestershire, United Kingdom; Barry Kipperman, Long Island, N.Y.; and Thomas M. Edling, San Diego, were nominated and approved as members-at-large. Catlin Dooley, Pullman, Wash., and Michael J. White, Manhattan, Kan., were approved as student members.
Officials: Drs. Alice Villalobos, Hermosa Beach, Calif., president; Thomas M. Edling, San Diego, president-elect (starting January 2013); Lide Doffermyre, Wilmington, N.C., secretary; John S. Wright, St. Paul, Minn., treasurer; and Kate Knutson, Minneapolis, immediate past president
Contact: Dr. Alice Villalobos, President, Society for Veterinary Medical Ethics, 1947 Manhattan Ave., Hermosa Beach, CA 90254; phone, (310) 379-8440; fax, (310) 374-3456; dralicevaol [dot] com (dralicev[at]aol[dot]com); website, www.svme.org