Dr. Hemant Naikare, director of the Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL) at the College of Veterinary Medicine, has earned the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians (AAVLD) President’s Award.  

This award recognizes an individual who has demonstrated meritorious achievement or contribution by undertaking special initiatives that advance the mission, values, recognition, and reputation of the organization. Naikare received the award during the AAVLD’s annual meeting in October. 

He has led the VDL since February 2024. Prior to joining the VDL, he worked seven years as director of the Tifton Veterinary Diagnostic and Investigational Laboratory at the University of Georgia while also leading the lab’s bacteriology and mycology section. He also has more than 10 years of experience with the Texas A&M Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory.

Naikare has completed advanced leadership training at both the University of Georgia and Texas A&M University. He earned a PhD in biomedical sciences at Oklahoma State and is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists.