Ames’ four-plus decades of service as a faculty member and leader of veterinary medicine within the University of Minnesota were recognized with the MVMA’s top honor. Nominees for Veterinarian of the Year “are members who have given so much to the veterinary profession as well as to their community, a well-rounded member who is outstanding in the profession” according to the MVMA’s press release.

Goldsmith was recognized for his valued role as a resource for Minnesota’s food animal practitioners as well as his expertise at creating hands-on, practical experiences where students can learn how to apply their classroom instruction for livestock herds. The annual faculty award recognizes faculty who exemplify “collaboration, communication, leadership, diversity, lifelong learning, adaptability and management.”

Jessica Koppien-Fox, ‘15 DVM, was named MVMA’s emerging leader for her achievement and leadership, community involvement, and engagement with the profession. She recently completed MVMA’s Power of 10 program, is serving on the MVMA’s board of directors, and is working on a veterinary opioid survey for Minnesota.

Joni Scheftel, ’82 DVM, ’01 MPH, honored alumnus Thomas Hagerty, ‘59 DVM with the President's Award. The President’s Award recognizes an organization or individual that has contributed significantly to the veterinary profession, MVMA, or promoting the human animal bond, animal health and welfare, or public health.

Scheftel has completed her term as president of the MVMA, and handed the gavel to CVM alumni Matthew Boyle, ‘03 DVM.  He has been involved with the MVMA since graduation as a member and chair of the Food Animal Committee. Boyle remains active with the CVM as a guest lecturer and recently collaborated with Sandra Godden, DVM, a professor in the Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, to investigate the impact of bedding characteristics on udder health.