The University of Minnesota recently honored René Carlson, DVM, with its highest alumni award. The Outstanding Achievement Award is presented to alumni and former students who have achieved unusual distinction in their chosen field, profession, or in public service, and who have demonstrated outstanding leadership on a community, state, national, or international level. Carlson earned her degree in 1978 from the University’s College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM). Carlson passed away in late March.

“I was fortunate to have worked with René several times, and she made a lasting impression on me,” says CVM Interim Dean, Laura Molgaard, DVM. “She was an exemplary ambassador for the veterinary profession and the University of Minnesota.”

Carlson practiced small animal medicine at a number of Wisconsin clinics before founding the Animal Hospital of Chetek, Wisconsin, in 1995. She was a past president of the Northwestern Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association and the Wisconsin Veterinary Medical Association. In 2001, Carlson was named Wisconsin’s Veterinarian of the Year. In 2010, she sold her successful practice to focus exclusively on leadership opportunities.

After serving the American Veterinary Medical Association in different capacities, Carlson was elected national president in 2011. This experience encouraged her to seek a term as the first woman president of the World Veterinary Association, which represents 500,000 veterinarians on six continents. Carlson completed her three-year term in 2017.

Carlson was a transformative leader who advocated for thoughtful and transparent approaches to complicated issues facing the veterinary community, while encouraging collaborative participation from people of diverse backgrounds.