The American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges has awarded Dr. Erin Malone its most prestigious teaching award: the 2021 Distinguished Veterinary Teacher Award, presented by Zoetis. The annual award recognizes a sustained record of teaching excellence and ability, dedication, character, and leadership in contributing significantly to the advancement of the profession.

Malone is a professor in the Department of Veterinary Population Medicine and serves as interim associate dean for curriculum. A board-certified large animal surgeon and researcher, Malone has taught at the College since the 1990s, where she champions interactive, team-based learning to better equip students to transition from the classroom to clinical practice. 

She takes an evidence-based approach to teaching and learning, using proven techniques drawn from brain science to make learning more memorable and fun, as well as more effective. She has a particular interest in how the brain learns the psychomotor skills required for successful clinical practice. 

Malone also worked closely with the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) to increase awareness of the importance of student and mental health wellbeing resources.