Dr. Montse Torremorell, DVM, PhD ’99, is the 2022 recipient of the American Association of Swine Veterinarians’ (AASV) Outstanding Swine Academic of the Year award. Newly established and presented for the first time this year, the award is given to an AASV member employed in academia who has demonstrated excellence in teaching, research, and service to the swine veterinary profession.
 
With an extensive background in swine health, research, and production systems, including health improvement strategies, disease eradication, diagnostics, biosecurity programs, and health genomics, Torremorell joined the University of Minnesota as the Leman Chair in Swine
Health and Productivity in May 2009. She is currently professor and interim chair of the Department of Veterinary Population Medicine.
 
Torremorell conducts research of economically significant swine diseases focusing on the transmission, control, and elimination of influenza and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) infections in pigs. She also researches biosecurity technologies with applicability to prevent and mitigate airborne infections in pigs. She teaches both DVM and graduate students and is passionate about helping producers and veterinarians to apply science to control diseases. Mentees and graduates have become leaders within the swine industry and academia.
 
Grateful to her peers, Torremorell stated, “I’m truly honored and humbled by the recognition of this award. I never imagined I would be recognized by my peers in such a distinguished way. It means more than you know, and I am thankful to everyone who has contributed to my success over the years.”