Dr. Candace Croney Named Associate Vice Provost for Purdue Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging

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Purdue Veterinary Medicine faculty member Candace Croney, who holds a joint appointment as professor and director of the Center for Animal Welfare Science in the colleges of Veterinary Medicine and Agriculture, has been named associate vice provost for the Purdue University Office of Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging. Her appointment is effective immediately.

In her new role, Dr. Croney will report to Dr. John Gates, vice provost for diversity and inclusion. She will maintain a 50 percent faculty appointment in her home colleges as professor of animal behavior and well-being. “I am incredibly excited for Dr. Croney to join our team,” Dr. Gates said. “Her efforts will be crucial as we work to implement the recommendations of the Equity Task Force.”

Dr. Croney will have specific responsibility for faculty- and staff-facing educational and professional development opportunities, including those related to recruitment and success. She also will focus on teaching and learning initiatives, external institutional and community partnerships and research and other forms of scholarly engagement. Additionally, she will work to strategically align efforts across colleges and pursue and guide external funding. “I’m honored by this appointment and excited by the challenge it presents — to help Purdue be innovative about inclusive excellence and cultivating a campus community where every Boilermaker experiences the sense of belonging we all need to thrive, ” Dr. Croney said.

Dr. Croney came to Purdue in December 2011 after holding the position of associate professor of preventive medicine in the College of Veterinary Medicine at The Ohio State University. A graduate of Rutgers University, she went on to earn her master’s and doctoral degrees from Penn State, where she is an adjunct professor.  She also served on Oregon State University’s faculty as assistant and associate professor of animal behavior and bioethics in animal sciences, and for several years co-chaired the Association of Faculty and Staff for the Advancement of People of Color.  Additionally she was instrumental in developing Oregon State’s Search Advocate curriculum.

Dr. Croney has received numerous awards and honors, including Purdue University’s Seed for Success Award and the College of Veterinary Medicine’s Excellence in the Scholarship of Engagement Award, in addition to being a Purdue University Faculty Scholar.  Dr. Croney’s research on applied animal behavior and bioethics illustrates how integrating principles of equity, diversity, and inclusion can facilitate socially just and sustainable food production systems and equitable access to the benefits of the human-animal bond. She has provided related leadership for diverse multinational corporate boards and professional organizations.

Writer(s): Purdue Veterinary Medicine News

Source: Purdue University Marketing and Communications

Veterinary Nursing Student Leaves Full-Time Job to Pursue Second Degree

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Megan Schillo, of the Veterinary Nursing Class of 2024, is one of many inspirational students in the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine taking small steps and giant leaps toward pursuing her dreams. Having previously graduated from Purdue University Northwest in 2014 with a Bachelor of Science degree in hospitality and tourism management, Megan’s situation is somewhat unique by virtue of her decision to return to school to earn a second degree in veterinary nursing. Though a passion for animals has always filled her heart, it was the COVID-19 pandemic that caused Megan to realize it was time for a change.

Megan was born and raised in Cedar Lake, Indiana, a small town about an hour-and-a-half north of Purdue. She enjoys listening to country music and has attended many concerts throughout the years. Megan loves to travel, whether it be hiking the adrenaline-rushing heights of the mountains, cruising on the ocean, or relaxing in the peaceful atmosphere of a quiet beach. Having grown-up close to Chicago, she cheers for Chicago teams, enjoying Cubs games in the summer and Sunday Bears games in the fall. Not surprisingly, Megan also is a life-long animal lover. She currently is a proud dog mom to a Beagle named Murphy, whom she rescued as a puppy.

Though Megan grew up with animals, it was her first job that truly inspired a newfound passion for animal rescue and care. During her junior year of high school, she began working at Tractor Supply Company where customers were able to bring their pets along while shopping. By welcoming curious critters into the store, Megan not only formed relationships with frequent customers, but with their furry family members as well. Tractor Supply Company also often invited animal adoption and rescue organizations to the store on weekends in hopes that their animals would be adopted by local customers. The experience of watching furry friends in need being adopted into loving homes shaped Megan into a strong advocate for pet adoption and helped her recognize her own passion for helping animals.

Megan was also inspired by a non-profit animal rescue and advocacy organization with a particular focus on Beagles. “Owning two myself, it really hit home,” says Megan. Hearing about survivors’ stories while gaining frequent exposure to the beauty of adoption agencies uniquely shaped Megan’s desire for a veterinary nursing career. However, the decision to pursue a second degree was not an easy one.

After earning her first degree, Megan worked at AAA for nearly seven years as a member representative. In this customer-service-focused position, she assisted members with their vacation plans and was provided with exciting opportunities to travel to Walt Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando, Florida. However, these experiences came to an abrupt halt due to the impact of the pandemic on the travel industry, which drastically changed the dynamic of Megan’s job. She was left feeling unfulfilled and soon realized it was time to make a change.

After a lot of time spent reflecting and consulting with family and friends, she decided to take the next step. “Being older, already having a degree, unsure how I would financially support myself, and all the sad situations I was encountering in my job, always seemed to hold me back,” admits Megan. “With all the downtime during COVID, I had a lot of time to reflect and did some soul searching and it ultimately led me here!” Purdue’s smaller class sizes, affordable tuition, high pass rate on the Veterinary Technician National Exam (VTNE), emphasis on hands-on learning opportunities, and high academic rankings made it the perfect fit for Megan and provided her with the valuable resources necessary to reach her goals.

As Megan pursues her dream career she is finding that her personal experiences have spawned a strong interest in specializing in physical rehabilitation, with the goal of becoming a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Practitioner (CCRP) who can assist in getting injured animals back on their paws. “I personally have been in physical therapy and feel I would share a special bond with my patients because I can relate to what they are going through,” said Megan. “It would be incredibly rewarding to help improve an animal’s quality of life so they can get back to living a happy and healthy life with their families!” Megan’s experiences at Tractor Supply Company also sparked flames of passion for working on anti-cruelty laws, and she hopes to one day become more involved with passage of stricter state laws protecting the voiceless.

Megan also offers words of encouragement to anyone else considering whether to take their own giant leap: “It is never too late and you are never too old to pursue your dreams!”

This is the first of three features on students in the college’s on-campus Veterinary Nursing Program.  Look for the next feature in the next Vet Gazette on Friday, February 4.

Writer(s): Madeline Brod, PVM Communications Intern | pvmnews@purdue.edu

PVM’s Paige Allen Concludes Two-Year Term as NAVC President with Focus on Future

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VMX 2022, billed as the world’s largest veterinary education conference, provided the stage last week for Paige Allen, MS, RVT, Veterinary Nursing Program assistant director of academic advising and recruitment, to wrap-up a two-year term as president of the North American Veterinary Community (NAVC). Paige is just the second veterinary technician to serve as president of NAVC, which hosts the annual VMX conference in Orlando, Florida.

As part of her presidential duties during VMX this year, Paige participated in a news conference announcing the NAVC’s “Veterinary Nurse/Technician Empowerment Initiative,” which is a bold new program to elevate and advance veterinary nurses and credentialed technicians who are vital members of veterinary practices, but whose skills are often underutilized. The goals of the initiative are to achieve improved access to care, better patient outcomes and client satisfaction, improved overall well-being of the veterinary nurse/technician, and to encourage more people to go into veterinary careers.

The news conference on January 17 included the presentation of a new video which includes several PVM staff members talking about the importance of veterinary technicians. Click here to view the video. 

Paige said key components of the new initiative include:

1. Launching a national consumer veterinary nurse/technician awareness and education campaign sponsored by VCA Animal Hospitals, with support from the National Association of Veterinary Technicians in America (NAVTA).
2. Fostering greater consumer awareness and understanding of the important role and significant educational requirements of veterinary nurses/technicians.
3. Providing new programs with a wide range of resources and support for veterinary nurses/credentialed technicians, such as: career development and growth; scholarships for continued learning; new intensive hands-on courses specifically designed for nurses/technicians at the NAVC Institute to further advance their expertise; and a new webinar series that brings together industry leaders to address key issues facing the veterinary nurse/credentialed technician profession.
4. The launch by Today’s Veterinary Nurse of the new “Clinic Champions” series to recognize the positive impact veterinary nurses/technicians make, and a mentorship program that will help the next generation of veterinary nurses and technicians succeed.

Click here to view the complete press release from the news conference. “I am so proud to be a part of NAVC and am excited to see the opportunities for future technicians/nurses and I know that you will be a part of this change,” Paige said in comments after VMX directed at today’s veterinary nursing students.

The NAVC also released a collection of interview excerpts from VMX, which includes comments from PVM’s Courtney Waxman, MS, CVT, RVT, VTS (ECC), talking about clinic readiness and emergency medical response.  Her comments begin at the 8:50 mark in the video, which can be viewed by clicking here – let the video begin and then you can advance to her segment.

Looking back on her two-year tenure as NAVC president, Paige said the experience was unlike any responsibility she had held before. “I think that’s what made it so rewarding,” Paige said. “It’s the kind of position that demands your best effort every day, in a supportive environment where you can utilize your existing skills while benefitting from amazing mentors and teamwork that ultimately makes possible such an incredible event as VMX.  It stretches you, humbles you, and yet builds you up through the empowering influence of teamwork, and leaves you with new perspectives, treasured memories, and a very thankful heart.”

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

PVM Alumna Wins Kentucky Veterinarian of the Year Award for Heart-warming Rescue

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Dr. Emily Bewley (PU DVM 2011) of Louisville, Kentucky is one of many Purdue Veterinary Medicine alumni who has taken giant leaps since graduation to make a lasting impact on the world around her, and now she has a new honor to add to her list of accomplishments. Dr. Bewley received the Kentucky Veterinary Medical Association’s Veterinarian of the Year Award for 2021 at the association’s annual awards luncheon last fall. The honor recognized Dr. Bewley for her efforts to save the life of a dog named Ethan that had been dumped in the parking lot of the Kentucky Humane Society in Louisville nearly dead from starvation. Tomorrow, Saturday, January 29, marks one year since Ethan arrived in Dr. Bewley’s care.

Dr. Bewley earned her DVM degree at the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2011 and now works as a shelter veterinarian for the Kentucky Humane Society. Born and raised in Louisville, Dr. Bewley attended Assumption High School where she participated in a co-op program that provided her the opportunity to spend a few days each week working at a veterinary office. It was during this time that her love for animals blossomed. When it came time to consider going to college, Dr. Bewley knew instantly that she was meant to be at Purdue. Being close to Louisville and known for its academic excellence, Purdue’s veterinary medical program seemed to be tailored to her. After graduation, Dr. Bewley went on to work in veterinary emergency and critical care before finding a position with the Kentucky Humane Society and becoming a shelter veterinarian. It was there that her path crossed with Ethan’s, an abandoned pup in need of help. This encounter would become the most impactful rescue of Dr. Bewley’s life.

Ethan was found in the parking lot at the Kentucky Humane Society that Saturday one year ago severely underweight and dehydrated. For weeks after he was taken in, Ethan suffered from seizures, numerous lesions, and brain damage to his frontal lobe. His health condition was so severe that Dr. Bewley thought he was passing away, until he decided to eat during her second attempt to feed him. “Ethan was the worst case I’ve ever seen. Watching his recovery was kind of magical. It was all due to the strength of his heart and the strength of his character,” said Dr. Bewley. When Ethan was found in the parking lot, he weighed in at 38 pounds, when he should have weighed 80.  He now weighs a healthy 130 pounds and is one loving pup. Ethan is considered a walking miracle due to the extraordinary veterinary care he received.

Ethan also was honored by the Kentucky Veterinary Medical Association (KVMA) last fall by being inducted into the KVMA Animal Hall of Fame. His plaque, dedicated to “Ethan Almighty”, reads:

“In recognition of an animal that exemplifies the affection, loyalty and value of the human/animal bond, and dedication while serving an individual and community.”

Also honored were Kentucky Humane Society’s Medical Services Supervisor Jacie Claxton, Veterinary Technician Angela Miksell, and Veterinary Assistants Rebecca van Schepen and Dakota Arnold, all who cared for Ethan during his recovery. They were recognized at the same ceremony where Dr. Bewley was presented with the KVMA’s Veterinarian of the Year Award. “It was one of the most humbling experiences of my life,” reflects Dr. Bewley on her recognition. “I seriously was not expecting it. I felt so honored.”

Ethan was adopted by Kentucky Humane Society Facility Director Jeff Calloway and his wife, Dana. He has since acquired quite the following, as he was hired as a beer taster for Busch Beer’s Dog Brew and invited to throw the first pitch at a Louisville Bats game. “The COVID pandemic really made his popularity explode,” said Dr. Bewley. “People were looking for hope – something to hold on to – and they were with him all the way.” Ethan and Dr. Bewley’s story has gone so far as to influence legislation – there is currently a pre-filed bill before the current session of the Kentucky General Assembly known as “Ethan’s Bill,” which, if passed, would create much stronger animal cruelty laws in Kentucky.

Dr. Bewley is now helping foster a new pup, named Travolta, on a journey back to health. The two are inseparable, and Dr. Bewley admits she may end up adopting the foster one day. She provides words of encouragement and advice to anyone looking to pursue a degree in any kind of veterinary practice. “Keep your mind open. I never considered shelter medicine. I thought I would do ER and I was president of the student veterinary medicine emergency club one year. Now, I love shelter medicine. You never know where the world is going to take you.”

Congratulations to Dr. Bewley for her outstanding accomplishment, and happy “Found Ya” day to Ethan! We can’t wait to see the next giant leap your future holds.

Writer(s): Madeline Brod, PVM Communications Intern | pvmnews@purdue.edu

Poultry producers encouraged to continue to keep a close eye on their flocks

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Poultry producers across the United States are encouraged to continue to monitor their flocks closely.

This comes as three cases of Avian Influenza were recently identified in North and South Carolina.

There are two types of Avian Influenza; low pathogenic and high pathogenic. The three cases found are classified as high pathogenic, which means it’s very contagious and potentially more dangerous. 

Clinical Assistant Professor for Purdue College of Veterinary Medicine, Geoffrey Lossie, says the disease is mainly spread through birds who live around water; like ducks and geese.

Read more on WLFI.

Writer(s): WLFI | pvmnews@purdue.edu

PVM Family Says Thank You with Surprise Package for Continuum Café Manager Tammie Hill

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As 2021 drew to a close, members of the Purdue Veterinary Medicine family rallied together to show their appreciation to an individual who has done so much to brighten each week day for faculty, staff, and students during the academic year. That person is Tammie Hill, who manages the day-to-day operations of the Continuum Café in Lynn Hall for Aramark, which operates multiple dining locations on the Purdue campus.

Just before the end of the fall semester, a group of PVM faculty and staff gathered secretly December 16 to surprise Tammie with a basket of treats and gift certificates for pampering services that she could use to better enjoy her time off during the University’s Winter Recess.  The surprise worked, and had the intended effect of conveying to Tammie how much she is valued and appreciated for her dedication, caring, and positive demeanor as she ensures that the café is open and ready to provide breakfast, lunch, and snack items for customers every weekday from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

“Tammie Hill has remained a constant in our college, benefiting everyone who visits the café,” said Dr. Latonia Craig, assistant dean for inclusive excellence. “It has been an unprecedented year for the Continuum Café due to limited staffing, supply shortages, and other barriers that can affect hours and the menu,” Dr. Craig explained. “Despite these challenges, Tammie has not only shown kindness, but has remained buoyant in response to her circumstances. Tammie is a valued member of the PVM family, and her continued contributions are vital for faculty, staff, and students in their quest to find peace of mind. If only to get a coffee, a bottle of water, and a sandwich, we are greeted with a smile, rich conversation, and a compassionate attitude no matter the type of visit. We wanted to take this opportunity to show our love and appreciation to her.”

Dr. Craig’s team in the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion got some tips on Tammie’s favorite things to ensure her holiday basket was filled with items that would be especially meaningful to her. “Thank you to everyone who responded to this opportunity to honor and show appreciation to Tammie,” Dr. Craig said. 

With the start of the new semester Monday, January 10, the Continuum Café is open again with its normal hours of 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The only anticipated exceptions will be on days when staffing issues necessitate preparing sandwiches ahead of time as grab and go selections instead of as individualized custom orders – an adjustment which enables the café to remain open with reduced staff instead of having to close.

Thank you Tammie!

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

Support from PVM Family Contributes to Successful Purdue United Way Campaign

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Thanks to the generosity of the Purdue Veterinary Medicine family, the College of Veterinary Medicine contributed significantly to the success of Purdue University’s 2021 United Way campaign. As of the conclusion of the campaign, giving to the college’s United Way drive totaled more than $16,500, an increase of 26 percent from the previous year. 

“I am deeply appreciative of the generosity of the PVM family, and the care and concern that our faculty and staff show for our neighbors in need in our community through their support of the College of Veterinary Medicine’s component of the Purdue United Way campaign,” said Dean Willie Reed.  “I want to thank everyone who contributed for the incredible support given in 2021, which represented a significant increase in giving. I am so thankful that the PVM family is such a great model for the University of strong support for the United Way agencies that do so much to help our Greater Lafayette community.” 

Angela Pickett, executive assistant to the dean, served as the college’s United Way campaign chairperson. “Thank you to everyone who registered a response, whether that involved making a gift or not.  Every response is valued.” The Purdue United Way campaign wrapped up at the United Way of Greater Lafayette’s campaign victory celebration November 18 at the West Lafayette Golf and Country Club. The United Way of Greater Lafayette campaign raised a total of $4,600,256.  The University’s contribution amounted to nearly $640,000.  Steve Abel, associate provost for engagement, was this year’s Purdue United Way campaign chair. Linda Mason, dean of the Graduate School, was the vice chair.

Writer(s): Angela Pickett and Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

In Memory: Dr. Todd Clark (PU DVM ’72), Dr. Susan Babineau (PU DVM ’97), and Dr. Susan Min (PU DVM 2005)

The Purdue Veterinary Medicine family is saddened to learn of the passing of three alumni, Dr. Todd Clark (PU DVM ’72), Dr. Susan Babineau (PU DVM ’97), and Dr. Susan Min (PU DVM 2005).

Dr. Todd Clark (PU DVM ’72)

Dr. Todd Clark of Lafayette, Indiana, passed away Monday, January 10, 2022 at IU Arnett Hospital. He was 73.

Dr. Clark was a 1966 graduate of Horace Mann High School and went on to enroll in the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine, earning his DVM degree in 1972.  He founded the Creekside Animal Hospital in Lafayette as a solo practitioner in 1982 and worked as a veterinarian there for the remainder of his 50 year veterinary career. His special interests included dermatology (especially working with allergic animals), as well as soft tissue, cosmetic, and reconstructive surgery.  Over time, the hospital grew to become a six doctor practice and is now called the Creekside Animal Hospital and Wellness Center.

In addition to practicing veterinary medicine with dedication and excellence, Dr. Clark also worked as a high school football referee for 41 years, receiving the National Football Foundation Outstanding Game Official Award in 2018 and the 2009 – 2010 Outstanding IHSAA / NFOA Football Officials Award.

Dr. Clark also is remembered for his love of his family including his two-legged and four-legged friends.  An avid golfer, Dr. Clark enjoyed times with his co-workers at Creekside, his golfing buddies, and his officiating friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions may be directed to Natalie’s Second Chance Shelter, 10 South 16th Street, Lafayette, IN 47905. Memories and condolences may be shared online at www.hippensteelfuneralservice.com.

Dr. Susan Babineau (PU DVM ’97)

Dr. Susan Babineau, of Newport, Vermont, died September 9, 2021. She was 51. A native of Franklin, New Hampshire, Dr. Babineau attended the University of New Hampshire where she graduated with honors before enrolling in the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine and earning her DVM degree in 1997. 

Dr. Babineau worked in private small animal practice, becoming the owner and operator of the Newport Animal Hospital and serving in that capacity for 21 years. In 2020, she received the Newport Daily Express’s Best of the Best Award, which is given to the member of the community who is voted as the best veterinarian in the area.  She also enjoyed attending and participating in equestrian events, playing tennis, hiking, and swimming, and serving as a skiing instructor.

The Curtis-Britch & Bouffard Funeral Home handled arrangements. Online remembrances may be made at curtis-britch.com.

Dr. Susan Min (PU DVM 2005)

Dr. Susan Min, of Bellevue, Washington, passed away December 8, 2021, after a battle with cancer.  She was 46.  Dr. Min graduated in the Purdue DVM Class of 2005, and worked in private practice at the Bellevue Animal Hospital. 

Dr. Min moved to the Seattle area from Seoul as a teenager and earned her undergraduate degree at the University of Washington before enrolling in the DVM degree program at the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine. After graduating in 2005 she returned to the Pacific Northwest to work in private practice.

A post on the Bellevue Animal Hospital website called Dr. Min one of their beloved doctors. “Although Susan’s life ended before we were ready, the time that she spent in our lives was memorable and full of joy,” the post read. “She was a dedicated and passionate advocate for her patients and would go to the ends of the earth for her family and friends. We miss her and know that this loss is deeply felt by many.  Susan would want us to lift each other up and remain strong in the face of such a tragic loss.”

According to its website, the Bellevue Animal Hospital was established in 1955 and is a full-service animal hospital on the Seattle area’s Eastside, offering services that include internal medicine, surgery, dentistry, dermatology, ophthalmology, cardiology, and integrative medicine. 

Dr. Min had extensive experience in emergency medicine and complicated soft tissue surgeries. She also was known for her other areas of interest including preventive medicine, geriatric patient care and dermatology.

No information about funeral arrangements for Dr. Min is available. Click here to view the post on the Bellevue Animal Hospital website.

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu

Recognition Ceremony Honors PVM Staff at Year’s End

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The Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine’s Staff Service Recognition Ceremony honored staff members for service anniversaries and special accomplishments at the conclusion of 2021.  Held December 14 in Lynn 1136, the event maintained a long-standing tradition of honoring staff members for their years of service to the college and Purdue. In addition to celebrating service anniversaries, the ceremony also recognized staff and faculty who completed the Center of Excellence for Diversity and Inclusion in Veterinary Medicine Certificate Program, and recognized new recipients of the Bravo Awards.

Dean Willie Reed began the ceremony by emphasizing the importance of service anniversary milestones. “I am thankful that we are able to come together in-person this year to continue this important and meaningful tradition in our college,” Dean Reed said. “A number of our PVM staff members have reached significant service anniversaries this year, and it is very fitting to celebrate these milestones with them.” Staff members were honored in groups according to the number of their years of service, beginning with those who have completed ten years of service to the University and continuing in five year increments to those who have served the University 25, 30, 35, and even 40 years. The staff members who were honored during the ceremony are:

Ten Years of Service:

Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory

• Aimee Highland, communications and special projects coordinator

Department of Comparative Pathobiology:

• Christopher Charles, HABRI central project manager

Department of Veterinary Administration:

• Adrianne Fisch, engagement program manager
• Allison Gardner, assistant director of communications
• Samantha McFarland, director of financial affairs

Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences:

• Jessica Mabbitt, graduate and international programs coordinator

Purdue University Veterinary Hospital:

• Jolene Knuth, anesthesiology technologist supervisor
• Tami Lind, emergency and critical care veterinary technician supervisor
• Katrina Mijatovich, laundry attendant
• Cassandra Simmons, small animal surgery technologist

15 Years of Service:

Department of Veterinary Administration:

• Jennifer Ashley, veterinary skills and competencies manager

Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences:

• Sarah Schroeder, teaching animal protocol technologist

Purdue University Veterinary Hospital:

• Wilson Gwin, pharmacy director
• Renee Macy, bill auditor and client liaison

20 Years of Service:

Department of Veterinary Administration:

• Josh Clark, Distance Learning Instructional Technologist

Purdue University Veterinary Hospital

• Dr. Lori Corriveau, primary care clinician
• Jessica Schneider, swine field service technologist

25 Years of Service:

Purdue University Veterinary Hospital:

• Cynthia Voglewede, small animal primary care technologist

30 Years of Service:

Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory:

• Brenda Turner, serology laboratory supervisor

Department of Veterinary Administration:

• Nancy Allrich, director of IT operations

35 Years of Service:

Department of Veterinary Administration:

• Paige Allen, assistant director of academic advising and recruitment

Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences

• Patricia Kirts, information processing systems operator

40 Years of Service:

Department of Veterinary Administration:

• Lee Ann Happ, PVM lead operations administrator

“Congratulations to all of these members of our PVM family – thank you for your dedication and loyalty to our college and Purdue University,” Dean Reed said. “It is truly an honor to be able to celebrate these service anniversaries with you!”

Next, Dean Reed presented certificates to faculty and staff members who have completed the online Certificate Program for Diversity and Inclusion in Veterinary Medicine. “Diversity and inclusion are key components of our college’s values and culture, and we are proud of these individuals for their dedication in promoting a collegial work and learning environment enhanced by diversity,” Dean Reed said as he introduced the following certificate recipients:

• Terri Donald, senior administrative assistant, Purdue University Veterinary Hospital
• Savanna Harrison, pathology laboratory technician, Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory
• Sarah Leighton, graduate student, Department of Comparative Pathobiology; and,
• Daniela Cecila Peña Hernandez, microbiology resident, Department of Comparative Pathobiology and Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory.

Dean Reed concluded the recognition ceremony by presenting Bravo Awards, which recognize substantial accomplishments by Purdue employees that extend well beyond regular work responsibilities. The awards can be given to acknowledge exceptional efforts in any of four categories:

• Moving the University Forward — accomplishments or contributions that transform or advance university objectives;
• Innovation and Creativity — innovative work or suggestions well beyond standard job requirements that significantly improve operational efficiencies or introduce new or improved processes;
• Operational Excellence — extraordinary effort during times of critical departmental need; and,
• Fiscal Stewardship — significant cost saving or cost avoidance realized beyond normally expected or established standards.

Each of the Bravo Award recipients received a certificate as well as a cash prize. The following awardees were selected based on nominations submitted for the second half of 2021:

• Nancy Allrich, recognized for Operational Excellence as director of IT operations in PVM Information Technology in the Department of Veterinary Administration (VAD)
• Alison Clauser, recognized for Operational Excellence as histology laboratory supervisor in the Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (ADDL)
• Christy DeYoung, recognized for Innovation/Creativity and Operational Excellence as diagnostic imaging technologist in the Veterinary Hospital
• Alyx Guadarrama, recognized for Operational Excellence as instructional designer in PVM Information Technology in VAD
• Brittany Laflen, recognized for Moving the University Forward and Operational Excellence as small animal surgery and neurology technician in the Veterinary Hospital
• Debra Lubelski, recognized for Operational Excellence as parasitology laboratory technician in the ADDL

Additionally, three teams were recognized with Bravo Awards:

• Paige Allen, assistant director of academic advising and recruitment; Shelly Opperman, academic advisor; and Amanda Taylor, senior administrative assistant, were recognized for Operational Excellence as members of the team that coordinated the Student Services Career Fair in Lynn Hall in November
• The team of Veterinary Hospital Versa Technicians Shelley Harmon, Ashlee Hershman, Kenzie Gerber, Megan Stearns, and Victoria Shackelford was recognized for Operational Excellence in supporting shelter medicine and Priority 4 Paws
• Engagement team members Wright Frazier, director of web communications; Tricia Johnson, administrative assistant; and Susan Xioufaridou, director of alumni relations and special events, were recognized for supporting the Centers for the Human-Animal Bond Conference in November

Congratulations to all of the award recipients!

Writer(s): Susan Xioufaridou | pvmnews@purdue.edu

PVM Alumnus and Professor Emeritus Mark Hilton Honored as 2021 Mentor of the Year

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Merck Animal Health teamed-up with the American Association of Bovine Practitioners (AABP) to recognize Dr. Mark Hilton (PU DVM ’83), a Purdue Veterinary Medicine graduate and retired faculty member. Dr. Hilton, clinical professor emeritus of veterinary clinical sciences, received the Mentor of the Year Award at the AABP Annual Conference in October in Salt Lake City, Utah. 

Presented jointly by the AABP and Merck Animal Health, known as MSD Animal Health outside the United States and Canada, a division of Merck & Co., Inc., the annual award recognizes an individual who goes above and beyond in educating, supporting, and advancing the careers of future bovine veterinarians. “Dr. Hilton has worn many hats during his time in the industry, but the impact he’s had on the next generation of bovine practitioners might be the most profound,” said Dr. Justin Welsh, executive director of livestock technical services for Merck Animal Health. “Not only has he taught countless students the necessary skills to be proficient in their careers, but he’s also put in the extra time and energy to truly help them thrive and make a difference in this field. That’s an effort worth recognizing and celebrating.”

Born and raised on a swine and beef farm in central Indiana, Dr. Hilton earned both his bachelor’s degree in animal sciences and his DVM degree at Purdue University, graduating in the College of Veterinary Medicine’s Class of 1983. He then joined the DeWitt Veterinary Clinic in Iowa where he spent 15 years as a partner in the predominantly food animal practice before returning to the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine where he taught beef production medicine for 18 years and accompanied students on food animal ambulatory calls. He was designated a professor emeritus when he retired in 2016, at which time he joined the animal health industry as a technical consultant for Elanco Animal Health, assisting beef cattle veterinarians with production medicine support.

“The mark of a good mentor is someone who is willing to challenge you to rise above the norm and go for your goals,” said Dr. William Ware, associate veterinarian at Veterinary Agri-Health Services in Longview, Alberta, Canada. “Dr. Hilton will always be the first person to pat you on the back and tell you, ‘Good job,’ when you’ve achieved your goal, but in the same breath will say, ‘So what’s your next goal, and how do we get there?’”

While at Purdue University, Dr. Hilton developed the college’s Advanced Beef Cow-Calf Production Medicine rotation, a first-of-its-kind, intensive three-week rotation for veterinary students. A diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in the beef cattle specialty, Dr. Hilton has actively served the veterinary medical profession in a variety of roles. He is a member of the AABP, American Veterinary Medical Association, Academy of Veterinary Consultants, American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, and the Indiana Veterinary Medical Association and is also a past president of the Western Veterinary Conference (WVC). He has received numerous awards, including SAVMA’s national teaching award in 2000, WVC’s Continuing Educator of the Year Award in 2009, and the Merial and AABP Excellence in Preventive Medicine Award for Beef in 2012. In addition, he was named by Bovine Veterinarian as one of the 20 Most Influential Bovine Veterinarians in North America in 2013.

Congratulations Dr. Hilton! Click here to view a complete news release from Merck Animal Health about the award presentation.

Writer(s): Kevin Doerr | pvmnews@purdue.edu