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T U S K E G E E V E T E R I N A RY M E D I C A L

PERSPECTIVE SPRING/SUMMER 2014

VOL. 38 NO. 2

T U S K E G E E U N I V E R S I T Y S C H O O L O F V E T E R I N A RY M E D I C I N E

IN THE SPOTLIGHT… The Office of Research & Advanced Studies

Gopal Reddy, DVM, Ph.D., associate dean for research and advanced studies

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Graduate Instruction and Degree Offered COLLEGE OF VETERINARY MEDICINE, NURSING AND ALLIED HEALTH (CVMNAH) COURSES OF STUDY LEADING TO GRADUATE DEGREES

Master of Science ■ Veterinary Science ■ Tropical Animal Health

Master of Public Health ■ Master of Public Health (MPH) ■ Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH)

Doctor of Philosophy ■ Integrative Biosciences Ph.D. Program (IBS) ■ Interdisciplinary Pathobiology Ph.D. Program (IDPB)

Graduate Admissions at the College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health are in accordance with the admission requirements set out by the Office of Graduate Studies and Research (GSR) at Tuskegee University. For more information and to download the graduate application form go to: www.tuskegee. edu and click on Quick Links – Graduate Studies and Research.

he College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health (CVMNAH) is actively pursuing interdisciplinary, team-oriented research capacity within Tuskegee University, as well as in selected strategic collaborations with external organizations, thus promoting an integrative approach to research on animal and human health. Active areas of research include the following cancer, drug delivery, obesity, infectious diseases, environmental and reproductive toxicology, computational epidemiology, risk analysis, food safety, poultry diseases, most of which are designed to promote the “One Medicine-One Health” framework that guides the college’s strategic research agenda. Research is funded by several governmental agencies and private foundations and collaborations are growing also across disciplines both within Tuskegee University and between other national and international institutions. The research is supported by institutional as well as individual faculty grants exceeding five million per year.

All the faculty members involved in research have their own laboratories in addition to the four multi-user core laboratories located in the Williams-Bowie building in the TUSVM complex. The core laboratories are for: 1) PCR, 2) tissue culture, 3) digital microscopy, and 4) high-cost equipment such as GC-MS, ultracentrifuges, HPLC and etc. The building also houses the Comparative Medicine Resource Center with an excellent laboratory animal facility.

The newly launched graduate programs, i.e., Master’s in Public Health (MPH) and the Interdisciplinary Pathobiology (IDPB) Ph.D. programs, are advancing well with an increasing number of applications for admission from national and international students.These graduate programs are greatly benefitting institutional research and are helping to forge new national and international collaborations. To learn more about the CVMNAH's Office of Research and Advanced Studies, go to www.onemedicine.tuskegee.edu.

SPRING/SUMMER 2014

VOL. 38 NO. 2

IN THIS ISSUE: 6

2014 Veterinary Medical Symposium Highlights

8

129th Spring Commencement

10 Donations to TUSVM 11 VET-STEP Student Gets

Presidential Scholarship

12 Community Outreach Efforts 14 Student News: Junior and Senior Awards 16 Faculty/Staff News:

New Administrative Changes

18 Alumni News: TUSVM Alumni

Honors, Accomplishments, New Positions

EDITOR’S CORRECTION… Editor’s Correction #1: An error was made in the 49th Annual Veterinary Medical Symposium program book on the Banfield Pet Hospital ad. TUSVM alumnus Will Draper’s photo was mistakenly placed in Banfield’s ad.

Draper does not work for Banfield but is co-founder and practice manager of The Village Vets.

Editor’s Correction #2: On page 8 of the Fall 2013/ Winter 2014 issue of the Veterinary Medical Perspective, Gopal Reddy, associate dean for research and advanced studies at the CVMNAH, was incorrectly named as the symposium chair for the 14th Annual Biomedical Research Symposium. The chair was Tameru Berhanu and the cochair was Vinaida Robnett.

Tuskegee University is accredited with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, master’s, doctorate, and professional degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Tuskegee University.

INTRODUCING: NEW INTERIM DEAN FOR CVMNAH

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ffective May 31, 2014, Dr. Tsegaye Habtemariam resigned as dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health (CVMNAH). He served as dean of CVMNAH from 2006 to 2014. From 1998 to 2005, Habtemariam served as associate dean for research and graduate studies.

He is returning to the Department of Pathobiology as a tenured professor of epidemiology and biomedical informatics and will continue to lecture graduate students in the School of Veterinary Medicine and the Institute of Public Health Studies (MPH and MSPH) as well as in the two Ph.D. programs (Ph.D. in Integrative Biosciences (IBS) and Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Pathobiology (IPB) that were launched while he served as dean.

Dr. Ruby Perry Interim Dean

During his post as dean, Habtemariam is credited with the following accomplishments: served as Principal Investigator (PI) of several external grants that generated more than $100 million over the past eight years with approximately $60 million in endowment grants; launched two new Ph.D. programs and two Public Health degree programs since 2006, and graduated the first TUSVM sponsored Ph.D. student from the TU/IBS program. And most recently, the Tuskegee University Board of Trustees approved a new Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. The school initiated construction of the new $41 million Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital in 2013.

Effective June 1, 2014, Dr. Ruby Perry, associate dean for academic affairs for the College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health, began serving as interim dean of the college. Perry is an alumna and former president of the Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Alumni Association.

From 1982 to 1988, Perry was an assistant veterinary radiology professor at Tuskegee. She also served as acting chair of the Department of Small Animal Medicine, Surgery and Radiology. In 1995, Perry served as section chief of diagnostic imaging at Michigan State University; a post she held for six years. She was also a tenured associate professor of veterinary radiology for more than 17 years before returning to Tuskegee.

Dr. Matthew Jenkins' term as acting president for Tuskegee University has ended. Effective, June 15, 2014, Dr. Brian Johnson assumed the role as the seventh president of Tuskegee University, succeeding Dr. Gilbert L. Rochon.

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Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

Perry received her Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine in 1977 from the Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine. She received a Master of Science degree from Michigan State University in 1991 and is also a board certified radiologist and member of the American College of Veterinary Radiology.

Matthew Jenkins, DVM Acting President

8 Published by Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing and Allied Health School of Veterinary Medicine Tuskegee, Alabama 36088 (334) 727-8174 Ruby Perry Interim Dean Anissa L. Riley Editor Linda Cade-Hassan S. Diane Coffey Cheryl G. Davis Homer Johnson Mimi Johnson Pamela Martin David McKenzie Danielle Medoro, TUSVM Student Debra Mitchell Rick Mosley Caroline Schaffer Mary Turpin James Webster Contributors Eugene Johnson Thomas Martin CVMNAH Photographers Some photographs courtesy of other contributors Address Correspondence to: Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective Attn: Anissa L. Riley Tuskegee University Office of External Affairs School of Veterinary Medicine Tuskegee, Alabama 36088 Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective funds are provided by a grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Title III Program for Historically Black Graduate Institutions.

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SCHOOL NEWS Tuskegee University 49th Annual Veterinary Medical Symposium Highlights ‌ 6

Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

Tuskegee Veterinary Symposium Targets Education, Practice and Research

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eterinary professionals, scientists, students and other health-related professionals gathered at Tuskegee University for the annual veterinary medical symposium on March 19-22 at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center and the Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine (TUSVM) Complex.

Scientific sessions covered a variety of topics focused on the theme, “Bridging the Gap: Veterinary Medical Education, Practice and Research.” This year’s theme emphasized the significance of the veterinary profession as a catalyst to confront the immense scientific and technological challenges of the 21st century.

elected as the AVMA’s vice president in 2010 (through 2012). Currently, Strother serves in the AVMA’s House of Delegates as an Alabama delegate and is also an American Veterinary Medical Foundation director.

“Strother’s presentation was enlightening to all but especially to our students in attendance because she has a reputation for sharing her stories about experiences learned in her practice and especially about the pets and people she has had the honor to serve,” said Perry.

During the symposium, participants attended sessions on small and large animal medicine, lab animal medicine, The dean’s advisory council of alumni and significant stake- uniform services and public health, pathology, radiology, holders of the university as well as the Tuskegee Veterinary companion therapy, human-animal relations, business manMedical Alumni Association (TVMAA) executive board agement, international collaborations, and a legal/law and kicked off this year symposium followed by a welcome re- pharmacology review that met various state board conception on March 19 and then the scientific sessions begin tinuing education requirements for licensing. Also, various on March 20. fun, fellowship, and networking sessions and activities were planned for all including pre-veterinary students.

Under the leadership of chairperson Ruby Perry and co-chair Shannon The culminating awards event was held on Friday, March Boveland, the committee planned 21. Jerome Williams (’69), owner of Red Mountain Animal sessions and educational events Hospital in Birmingham and director of the Alabama Vetwith this year’s theme in mind. erinary Professional Wellness Program Board of Trustees Among the many outstanding at Alabama A&M University, served as toastmaster. During speakers scheduled was the key- the annual alumni banquet, the reunion classes of 1954, note speaker for the opening T. S. 1959, 1964 (Golden Class – 50 years), 1969, 1974, 1979, Williams Lecture, alumna Jan Stroth- 1984, 1989 (Silver Class – 25 years), 1994, 1999, 2004 and er. She is the founder and hospital 2009 were honored. director of the North Alabama Cat and Bird Veterinary Clinic which is a The TVMAA's president, Saralyn Smith-Carr, presented multi-doctor, companion and exotic various alumni awards. Also, a special treat was the presentation of the TUSVM Pioneer Awards by Habtemariam animal practice in Hartselle, Ala. to Eugene Adams, Edward T. Braye, and Ellis Hall.

Strother has been actively engaged in leadership roles with the Alabama TUSVM welcomed all veterinarians again to this year’s Veterinary Medical Association (AL- symposium. The school again extended complimentary VMA) and the American Veterinary registration to all veterinary medical students and faculty Medical Association (AVMA). She at Auburn University. Participants were also able to earn served as the first female presi- up to 20 total continuing education units. dent of the ALVMA and was

Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

7

Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine Graduates May 10, 2014‌ 8

Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

Tuskegee University 129th Annual Spring Commencement Exercises Bid Farewell to Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Science Graduates

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he Spring Commencement Exercises, held on May 10 at the University’s General Daniel “Chappie” James Center for Aerospace Science and Health Education, bid farewell and saluted the beginning of professional careers in veterinary medicine for 69 new graduates of TUSVM. Thirty-six of the 69 students graduated with honors. They included: Fourteen “Summa Cum Laude” – Tiffany S. Collins, Dani I. Del Castillo, Wesley A. Dyer, Christopher A. Griffith, Aja B. Harvey, Nicole L. Lukovsky, Janae R. Mattaur, Kerry Maxaner, Davriel A. Morrow, Karen Park, Lauren M. Ray, Ednellys Rivera-Gonzalez, Aida I.Vientos-Plotts, and Khalila Y. Williams; thirteen “Magna Cum Laude” – Amy B.Alexander, Jeanette Bimonte, Maura C. Cicci, Adriana Colon-Rodriuez, Jose D. Cruz Ortero, Katherine Driver, Megan E. Harris, Shannon A. Metcalf, Brittani J. Nickens, Rachel S. Park, Alexandra M. Rosado-Quintero, Simone R. Tomlinson, and Kindra S. Washington; and nine “Cum Laude” – Willie A. Bidot, Sequoia Bruinton; Blake C. Fields, Amelia J. Harris, Dianne M. Hernandez, Erinn Mackey, Raphael A. Malbrue, Sherrelle M. Milligan, and Bethany D. Scott.

One graduate received the Master of Science in Veterinary Science degree: Mulugeta W. Gebremedhim, thesis: “Evaluation of the Major Challenges facing Developing Countries under the World Trade Organization Sanitary/ Phytosanitary System” (major professor – Berhanu Tameru).

The Veterinary Medical Oath Ceremony immediately followed the Commencement Exercises in the Tuskegee University Chapel with Ruby Perry presiding. Matthew Jenkins, TUSVM Class of 1957, along with Tsegaye Habtemariam gave the opening greetings to the Class of 2014. The “Veterinary Challenge” was given by Roslyn Casimir-Whittington, veterinary pathologist (TUSVM Class of 2002).

The “Class Acceptance of Challenge” was given by Shermaine Wilson-Cox (TUSVM Class of 2014 president).

“The Alumni Induction” was given by Saralyn Smith-Carr, Diplomate-ACVIM (TUSVM Class of 1978 and president, Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Alumni Association). The ceremony ended with the administering of the “Veterinary Oath” to the new graduates by Habtemariam. Congratulations to the Class of 2014!

Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

9

Long-time Client Makes Learning Is Enhanced Thanks Donation to Veterinary School to Ultrasound Machine in Honor of “DIVA” for Donation to Veterinary School Student Scholarship Fund “It is not often that a company makes a significant donation to While it is affirming enough to have a long-time client like, Mimi Evelyn Johnson, Ed.D., continuously trust the TUSVM veterinary clinicians and students year after year with the wellness care of her pet, it is truly appreciated when a client chooses to give (L to R): David McKenzie, veterinary medical teaching back in the form of hospital director; Noriko Aoi, small animal clinician; and client Mimi E. Johnson with pet “Diva.” starting a scholarship fund to help students in the veterinary program. This is exactly what Johnson did in honor of her five-year old female Shih Tzu dog, named “Diva,” on May 2 at the small animal hospital. A total of $670 was raised as a birthday wish to celebrate Diva’s fifth birthday, which was March 20. h 20th.

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Johnson, a native of Tuskegee, is an educational administrator who has a heart for animals and is supporting a Good Samaritan Fund designed to help stray dogs who may need veterinary care. She also has her pet family member involved in the community as a therapy dog helping at assisted living facilities, in reading programs, and working with physically challenged individuals as well as end of life patients.

“Mimi Johnson is a long-time client of ours and committed to the TUSVM veterinary school and our students.This is not the first time that she has helped us raise funds for the veterinary program,” said Noriko Aoi,TUSVM small animal clinical instructor for outpatient and dental services.

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Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

a veterinary school at the request of a student to enhance student learning, but thanks to Anthony Gonzalez (Class of 2013), this is exactly what happened,” said Ruby Perry, interim dean of the CVMNAH. Although now a member of TUSVM’s alumni, Gonzalez made the request while a senior veterinary student to Universal Imaging. As of spring 2014,TUSVM now has a new SonoScape Portable Color System S2 Ultrasound Unit with cart for mounting and transport.

This equipment has helped TUSVM expand its ultrasound service capabilities in the diagnostic imaging section in the veterinary medical teaching hospital as well as helped in the teaching and training of students and interns.

“The donation would not have been possible without the generous and forward assistance of Peter Brunelli, managing director for Universal Imaging, and Dick Adams, who provided the in-depth training session for TUSVM,” Perry said.

“We are truly appreciative for this generous gift that is being used to build and strengthen our clinical program that will benefit not only the faculty and students, but also our clients.”

SonoScape A8

VET-STEP: It Is Paying Off… Thanks TUSVM Alumni!

“Why did I choose Tuskegee?”

“Tuskegee is an amazing school with challenging academics and a stellar staff, but many universities can boast those facts. What drew me to Tuskegee over the other schools I was accepted to (Cornell and North Carolina State) is that every person associated with Tuskegee be it an alumni, professor or current student, knows that Tuskegee looks out for their students. The professors are dedicated to preparing every student for their chosen future career; and the alumni go out of their way to find opportunities that will help current students succeed. I got to see that passion, dedication and commitment firsthand after attending the Vet-Step II Program.

TUSVM’s summer program - Veterinary Science Training, Education, and Preparation Institutes (VET-STEP I & II) - is not only bringing future veterinarians to Tuskegee, but it is a pipeline to getting some of the nation’s top students enrolled as undergraduates at Tuskegee University also. “Thanks to our dedicated veterinary alumni who continuously support the TUSVM outreach programs and refer top students to us,” said Rick Mosley, recruiter for the TUSVM Office of Admissions and Recruitment and Vet-Step coordinator.

I not only maintain relationships with the students I met there, but also with the amazing staff that run the Vet-Step Program. They pushed me to explore every university, major and opportunity and make the decision of what school I wanted to attend based on MY criteria and MY preference.

I chose Tuskegee.”

For the last two summers, the undergraduate “Early Admissions” program into Tuskegee University has proven to be successful with the acceptance of eleven honor students from the Vet-Step summer program that were referred

by TUSVM alumni. Three of these honor students (Nia Hicks, Laquadria Horton, and Taylor Smith) received merit scholarships as members of the fall 2013 freshmen class.

One student also worked in the veterinary medical teaching hospital as a veterinary technician in the large animal clinic.

This year, Imani Williams, will be a member of the Tuskegee University freshmen class as the first Vet-Step student to be awarded the Tuskegee University Presidential Scholarship.

Williams is from Atlanta and has a passion to serve others and animals. She has the goal to become a veterinarian and is well on her way to making that dream a reality.

Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

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TUSVM Students TUSVM Promotes Small Participate in Fundraiser to and Large Animal Events at Save Elephants WAKA TV Station

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COMMUNITY OUTREACH

amela Guy, small animal clinician and small animal wellness clinic coordinator, and Faryka Rogers, large animal intern and horse health fair clinician, were the two guests on the 6 a.m. morning show on April 11 at WAKA television station (Alabama News Network) to promote the following events:

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T

USVM students Amanda Edwards and Danielle "Nell" Medoro, as second year veterinary students, travelled to Chiang Mai,Thailand for a four-week internship.

They worked with the veterinary staff at the Elephant Nature Park caring for the herd of 32 rescued elephants.

Edwards and Medoro were given the opportunity to participate in treatments, administering medications, feeding, and bathing the elephants.

“It was an amazing experience. Many of the elephants had been abused and mistreated, but they were so gentle with us during all the treatments,” said Medoro. “We are very thankful to TUSVM for giving us the opportunity as veterinary students to have this experience. We knew when we left we wanted to continue doing all that we could do to help and give back to this sanctuary.”

Currently they are raising money to send back veterinary supplies. To date, Edwards and Medoro have raised over $2,000. They hope to start a tradition by having more TUSVM students participate in what they describe as “a truly life changing experience.”

Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

1) The Small Animal Wellness Clinic – held Sat., April 12 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the TUSVM Small Animal Hospital. The event was free to the public and services were offered for small animal pets like dogs, cats, and pocket pets to include: free physical exams, free nutrition and obedience advice, free heart worm testing, and reduced price vaccinations. No appointments were needed.

2) The Annual Horse Health Fair - held Sat., April 26 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the TUSVM Large Animal Hospital. The event was also free to the public and no appointments were needed. Services offered for horses included: free physical exams, free fecal exams, and free nutrition information. For a minimal fee, clients received other services for their horses to include deworming treatment, Coggins test for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA), and preventative vaccines like Influenza, Rabies, Eastern and Western Encephalomyelitis, Tetanus, Rhinopneumonitis, and West Nile. A farrier was also on site.

Horse Health Fair Highlights…

Small Animal Wellness Clinic Highlights…

Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine

Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital

22nd Annual Horse Health Fair Saturday, April 26, 2014 8:00AM-3:00PM FREE PHYSICAL EXAM, FECAL EXAM AND NUTRITION INFORMATION Our Mission is to provide high quality veterinary services to the community by a dedicated, caring, compassionate and professional team of faculty, staff and students; provide exemplary first-rate customer service; and provide an environment that fosters excellent veterinary medical education that cultivates life-long learning and professionalism for students.

Contact Information

Hours of Operation Mon-Fri (8:00am-4:30pm) Sat (9:00am-11:00am) Referral Services Small Animal Ambulatory Services Large Animal Ambulatory Services

Small Animal – 334-727-8436 Large Animal – 334-727-8461 Community Events   

Small Animal Health Fair Small Animal Wellness Day Horse Health Fair

Please call for more information

Animal Care Awareness Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine announces

its Annual Horse Health Fair to be held on Saturday, April 26, 2014 from 8:00am to 3:00pm in the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital Large Animal Clinic.

The Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital will continue to promote “Awareness of Veterinary Animal Care” in the local community and surrounding counties. We encourage the community to participate in this health care program.

For more information, please contact the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital at 334-727-8436 or 334-727-8461.

“Tuskegee University is accredited with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award baccalaureate, master’s, doctorate, and professional degrees.

Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of Tuskegee University.”

www.onemedicine.tuskegee.edu www.tuskegee.edu

Tuskegee University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital News Free Oral Exam "Pet Dental Month" Noriko Aoi (right), TUSVM small animal clinical instructor for outpatient and dental services, instructs veterinary students using dental equipment.

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o celebrate National Pet Dental Month for the month of February, TUSVM small animal hospital invited TUSVM faculty, staff, and students to bring their dogs and cats for a FREE oral examination.

Examination included: a history on pet, complete oral examination, and discussion on what owners can do at home to prevent dental diseases in their pets. Free oral exams were offered from Feb. 17 (Mon) to Feb. 26 (Wed).

Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

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TUSVM 2014 Junior-Senior Awards Banquet April 26, 2014 Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center at Tuskegee University Nave Senior Externship Award Blake Fields O. P.Verma Endocrinology Award Davriel Morrow Christopher Deane AwardExcellence in Small Animal Diagnostic Parasitology Jannel Irons Pablo Hidalgo Novartis Animal Health Academic Excellence in Parasitology Sherrelle Roberts Milligan Novartis Animal Health Outstanding Small Animal Student Awards Shermaine Wilson-Cox Raphael Malbrue

STUDENT NEWS

Novartis Animal Health Outstanding Large Animal Student Award in Clinical Competency Raphael Malbrue

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American Association of Feline Practitioners Christina Larsen Macon County Humane Society Certificate of Service Thomas Caltabilota Amy Alexander Aida Vientos-Plotts Jeannette Bimonte Alexandra Rosado-Quintero William Bauer Nestle-Purina Award for Excellence in Veterinary Diagnostic Parasitology Khalila Williams Daveeta Marcellin Levy American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) Certificate for Small Animal Khalila Williams Aida Vientos-Plotts Kindra Washington

Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) Certificate for Large Animal Kindra Washington Large Animal Faculty Student Award Kindra Washington Barney Rubble Tuttle Nursing Care Awards in Small and Large Animal Natalie Quader (Large Animal) Brittani Nickens (Small Animal) Veterinary Radiology Award Maura Cicci Merck Award for Excellence in Small Animal Parasitology Thomas Caltabilota Sabrina Washington-Owens Award for Excellence in Clinical Parasitology Simone Tomlinson

VECCS Award for Proficiency in Emergency & Critical Care Shermaine Wilson-Cox Bob Rosenthall Senior Student Award for Proficiency in Clinical Oncology Award Thomas Caltabilota Novartis Ethicon Excellence in Large Animal Surgery Award Katherine Driver Academic Achievement Awards Davriel Morrow Aja Harvey Wesley Dyer Raphael Malbrue

Alumnus Gives Animal Welfare Presentation to TUSVM Students

Christian Veterinary Leadership Award Melissa Chavis Tadros Christian Veterinary Leadership Award Shermaine Wilson-Cox Dr. Matthew & Roberta Jenkins Entrepreneurial Student Awards Roy Arredondo Lauren Dodd I. H. Siddique Foundation Award Janae Mattaur Student Leadership Award Shermaine Wilson-Cox Robert D. Horne Orthopedic Award Amy Alexander C.T. Raby Award for Excellence in Clinical Parasitology Raphael Malbrue The Bayer Animal Health Communication Award Emily Coates Terrance Ferguson Award for Excellence in Small Animal Parasitology Kayce Clemmons

TUSVM’s student chapter of the Veterinary Business Management Association held an animal welfare lunch and learn session for veterinary students during the spring semester. The goal was to help students get a better understanding on the issues involving animal welfare and public health as well as the socio-economic trends in the United States that veterinarians need to consider when making career and business investments.

Students listened attentively to TUSVM alumnus Michael Blackwell, DVM, class of 1975, as he explained animal welfare protection collaboration with veterinary medicine. Building bridges to work together was one of his central themes. As the chief veterinary spokesperson for The Humane Society of the U.S., he works to strengthen and expand outreach with veterinary organizations, practitioners, and other stakeholders to teach about animal care, animal protection, and health care.

Presentation continued from page 14

“The Humane Society of the U.S. aims to prevent animal cruelty, exploitation, and neglect as well as educate the public about animal issues,” Blackwell said.

Blackwell has had a distinguished career in public service and as an educator. He was previously deputy director of the Center for Veterinary Medicine, chief veterinarian of the U.S. Public Health Service, chief of staff of the Office of the Surgeon General, assistant surgeon general (rear admiral) of the Commissioned Corps of the U.S. Public Health Service, and dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Tennessee.

TUSVM Student Receives ALVMA Award Shayla Johnson, upcoming third-year student at TUSVM, has been awarded the Dr. and Mrs. Aaron H. Groth Jr. Scholarship Award on behalf of the Alabama Veterinary Medical Association (ALVMA). Johnson is the president-elect of the TUSVM Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical Association (SCAVMA) and was given this award for her proven leadership in the SCAVMA. She has also been involved with the ALVMA Executive Board.

The ALVMA executive board established this scholarship in 1999. Each year in conjunction with the Alabama Veterinary Medical Foundation, two scholarship awards of $2,500 each are given to one Auburn and one Tuskegee veterinary student that is academically in the upper third of his or her class, is an achiever of excellent moral character, has completed the second year of veterinary school and is active in their school’s SCAVMA with demonstrated leadership qualities.

Class of 2014 Noted for Largest Internships/Residencies in TUSVM History Congratulations to the Class of 2014 for receiving the highest number of internships/residencies in the history of the veterinary school at Tuskegee. In an effort to assist each one in being successful, ready and prepared with confidence when they start their first day of their internship/ residency, TUSVM provided support to each of the students with a review course/workshop on Sat., May 3.

“This was an additional initiative to support our students and the first of its kind, said Ruby Perry, interim dean for the CVMNAH. “I am very appreciative of the faculty who volunteered to participate in this academic initiative and we plan to keep it as an annual academic program.”

Students attended an opening orientation and then the workshops followed with the rotating stations listed below: Station #1: Dr. Irizzary - Emergency/Critical Care Cases Station #2: Dr. Martin - Internal Medicine with Focus on

the Endoscopies Station #3: Dr. Perry - Diagnostic Imagining for the Intern/Resident Station #4: Dr. Cartee - Use of Diagnostic Ultrasound in

Emergency cases Snacks were also provided by the TUSVM Canine Club.

TUSVM Class of 2014 Internships/Residencies Name

Internship/ Residency

Facility Name

Location

Thomas Caltabilota

Internship

Garden State Veterinary Specialists

Tinton Falls, NJ

Aja Harvey

Internship- Equine Medicine/Surgery

Louisiana State University

Baton Rouge, LA

Audrey Weaver

Internship

1st Pet Veterinary Centers

Chandler, AZ

Amy Alexander

Internship

Carolina Veterinary Specialists

Greensboro, NC

Aida Vientos-Plotts

Internship

Auburn University

Auburn, AL

Lauren Ray

Internship- Equine

Tennessee Equine Hospital

Thompson's Station, TN

Daniel Cruz Otero

Internship

VCA Veterinary Specialist of Colorado

Loveland, CO

Karen Park

Internship

Veterinary Specialty Hospital of San Diego

San Diego, CA

Charlene Rivera

Internship

Veterinary Referral and ER Center of Westbury

Westbury, NY

Ednellys Rivera

Internship

Bluepearl Veterinary Partners

Tampa, FL

Dania Del Castillo

Internship

Florida Veterinary Referral Center

Estero, FL

Rachel Park

Internship

Bluepearl Veterinary Partners

Manhattan, NY

Alexandra Rosado

Internship

Veterinary Specialty Hospital of San Diego

San Diego, CA

Sequoia Bruinton

Internship

Bluepearl Veterinary Partners

Grand Rapids, MI

Brittani Nickens

Internship

Garden State Veterinary Specialists

Tinton Falls, NJ

Christien Bolden

Internship

Milwaukee Emergency Center for Animals

Milwaukee, WI

Maura Cicci

Internship

VCA Veterinary Referral and ER Center

Norwalk, CT

Willie Bidot

Internship

Hollywood Animal Hospital

Hollywood, FL

Adrianna Colon

Internship

Bluepearl Veterinary Partners

Tampa, FL

Jessica Claudio

Internship

Milwaukee Emergency Center for Animals

Milwaukee, WI

Giavanna Gaymon

Internship

Bluepearl Veterinary Partners

Chicago, IL

Megan Harris

Internship

VCA Veterinary Specialist

Albuquerque, NM

Lauren Dodd

Internship

VCA Veterinary Specialists

Albuquerque, NM

Ladissa Moore

Internship

Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island

West Islip, NY

Erinn Mackey

Internship

Veterinary Medical Center of Long Island

West Islip, NY

Katie Driver

Internship- Small Animal Army

Joint Base Lewis McChord

Tacoma, WA

Natalie Quader

Internship- Equine Medicine/Surgery

Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital

Lexington, KY

Janae Mattaur

Internship

Garden State Veterinary Specialists

Tinton Falls, NJ

Khalila Williams

Internship

Purdue University

West Lafayette, IN

Shermaine Wilson Cox

Residency Lab Animal

Emory University

Atlanta, GA

Sherrelle Milligan

Residency Lab Animal

Texas A&M

College Station, TX

Daveeta Marcellin Levy

Residency Lab Animal

MD Anderson Cancer Center

Houston, TX

Raphael Malbrue

Residency Lab Animal

Louisiana State University

Baton Rouge, LA

Nicole Lukovsky

Residency Lab Animal

Center for Disease and Control

Atlanta, GA

Kay Dewar

Internship Lab Animal

Mannheimer Foundation, Inc.

Homestead, FL

Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

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New Administrative Changes in the CVMNAH Interim dean Ruby Perry made the following administrative changes in June: Ayman Sayegh, DVM, Ph.D., MS was appointed as the department head for Biomedical Sciences. Sayegh is a graduate of Baghdad University School of Veterinary Medicine in Iraq. In addition, he completed both clinical (equine) and basic (neuroscience) training at Kansas State University, Purdue University, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and Washington State University. Currently, Sayegh is a professor of equine anatomy and a gastrointestinal physiology and a researcher in the area of control of food intake. In 2003 and 2012, he received the Pfizer Award for Excellence in Research. Sayegh’s research is funded by the National Institutes of Health and the Birmingham Racing Commission. His laboratory has published more than 40 peer-reviewed articles, several reviews and book chapters. Sayegh has been an invited speaker in several national and international conferences.

FACULTY/STAFF NEWS

David McKenzie, DVM, Ph.D., MPH, MS, was appointed as interim department head for Clinical Sciences (combining the small and large animal departments). He is serving a dual role also as the director of the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital.

McKenzie is an associate professor of large animal medicine and surgery and a TUSVM alumnus, class of 1990.

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Lloyd Webb, DVM, MPH, was appointed interim associate dean for Academic and Student Affairs. Webb is a professor (pathobiology) and a Tuskegee graduate (1976 bachelor and 1978 doctorate). He earned a master’s degree in public health in 1984 from the John Hopkins School of Hygiene and Public Health in Baltimore, Maryland. Webb has served in key leadership roles such as the Caribbean Sub-regional Advisor on Veterinary Public Health, Director and Deputy Director of Veterinary Public Health in Trinidad and Tobago, and President of the Trinidad and Tobago Veterinary Medical Association. He has also served as keynote speaker at conferences including serving as the opening session speaker for the T.S. Williams lecture during the TUSVM annual veterinary medical symposium.

Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

Shirley Foster Brown, joined the CVMNAH family as the executive secretary to the dean on May 1. Brown is a proud graduate of Tuskegee University with a bachelor’s degree in business management science. She also has a master’s degree from Troy University in human resources management.

Brown’s hobbies include singing, reading, shopping, enjoying fine arts and crafts, spending time with family, attending church, and getting to know people.

Cheryl G. Davis, associate professor (Institute for Public Health Studies), was the keynote presenter at the 48th Annual Education Seminar and Luncheon for the International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP), Tuskegee Chapter, on April 23. Davis gave a presentation on office ethics. She has served as the associate dean for administration and resource development

for the CVMNAH, program director for clinical laboratory sciences in the School of Nursing and Allied Health, and program director and assistant professor for healthcare management at South University in Montgomery, Ala. Davis has a doctorate degree in health administration.

Hari Goyal, professor (Biomedical Sciences) was the recipient of the 2014 Zoetis Distinguished Teacher Award. He was honored with a plaque and $1000 check at the annual TUSVM Jr./Sr. Banquet. Goyal has donated the cash award to the TUSVM so that it can be used to invite guest speakers for preparing fourth-year students for the NAVLE exam.

He has just completed 35 years of service in the CVMNAH and previously received the distinguished teacher award in 1982 and 1986.

TUSVM Staff Gets Commendation

by Alabama Governor Homer Johnson is pictured with Governor Bentley at the award’s presentation in Montgomery, Ala. Homer Johnson, large animal caretaker, received a commendation award from Governor Robert Bentley on May 21 for being a longtime Teaching Artist with the Alabama State Council of the Arts. For over 13 years, Johnson has worked as a teaching artist in Montgomery, Bullock, Macon, Perry, Pickens, and Green counties using sculpture as a medium to reinforce math, reading, social studies and language arts to children in K-5 to 8th grade. He has also taught the outreach program for the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts and had his work exhibited at Black Belt Treasures Art Gallery, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and the 2013 Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts FLIMP Festival.

Johnson has gained training for many years through attending numerous workshops for Focus on Arts Integration, Comprehensive Discipline-based Visual Arts Education, Classroom Management, Training Teaching Artist for Alabama Black Belt and the Integration Curriculum Alabama Institute for Education in the Arts.

Johnson’s wood carving expertise also caught the attention of the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s theater department when he was commissioned to carve panels for a piano for the production of August Wilson’s “Piano Lesson.”

“It was an honor to be recognized for a talent that I have and that I have been able to use to make a difference in other’s lives, especially children,” Johnson said.

He has served on various committees and has a special interest in international veterinary medicine. McKenzie has served as the Educational Commission for Foreign Veterinary Graduates (ECFVG) coordinator for TUSVM since 1999. In 2012, he was appointed to serve on the American Veterinary Medical Association’s ECFVG.

TUSVM Says Farewell to Interns

Pamela Martin, assistant professor (small animal internal medicine at TUSVM), along with Jamie Bellah (head of the Clinical Sciences Department at Auburn University) represented Tuskegee and Auburn’s veterinary programs and the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on March 13. They advocated for support related to the veterinary medical profession, research, and funding (Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program), student education costs (supporting HR 1125/S553 - the Veterinary Medicine Loan Repayment Program Enhancement Act), and agricultural funding related to veterinary medicine (funding for the Farm Bill that President Obama signed at Michigan State University). She and Bellah met with 3rd District for Alabama Congressman Mike Rogers, who is the only congressman to represent two veterinary schools.

Erin Rogers, large animal veterinary technician (Clinical Sciences), completed her associate degree in applied science in December from Jefferson State Community College in Birmingham, Ala. Rogers along with large animal intern Faryka Rogers accompanied David McKenzie to Judson College to make a presentation to the science club at the invitation of biology professor Thomas Wilson. Judson College has a very active Equine Science program.

David McKenzie was appointed as the new director of the Tuskegee University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (VMTH) by Tsegaye Habtemariam. The proposed plan for the new Tuskegee University Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital complex for small and large animals will replace current clinical and teaching spaces. The hospital will have space for clinical, office, and teaching needs as well as include areas for surgery, radiology, anesthesiology, medical records and pharmacy.

McKenzie is an alumnus of Tuskegee University with a bachelor’s degree in animal science (1988), doctorate degree in veterinary medicine (1990), and a master’s degree in veterinary science (1996). He is board certified in large animal internal medicine from the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

McKenzie practiced veterinary medicine in Macon, Ga., before accepting a large animal internship at Oklahoma State University. He also did a large animal residency at the University of Wisconsin. McKenzie also earned a master’s degree in public health specializing in epidemiology/ international health from the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) in 2004 and a doctorate degree in health education also from UAB in 2012.

On May 30, TUSVM held a farewell luncheon for its interns for the 2013-2014 academic year. They were also presented a certificate for their service. Interns pictured in the photo from left to right are: Harold Higgins (Large Animal), Faryka Rogers (Large Animal), Carmen Jerry (Pathobiology), and Durandel Ford (Small Animal).

Small animal intern Kyle Hubbard was not in attendance.

In Loving Memory

Melanie Hoffman, administrative assistant for Medical Records in the Department of Clinical Sciences/Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, passed suddenly on January 7, 2014. She had been employed with the Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine for 23 years.

Her smiling face is truly missed by all that new her. Left to treasure her memory in the years to come is her rambunctious son, Mitchell Cornell, whom she loved very dearly.

Ms. Hoffman, called Melanie by almost everyone, attended Southern Technical College in Montgomery, Alabama, and in 1990, earned an associate degree in computer technology. Her professional career began at Tuskegee University in 1990 as a clinical information technician.

In addition to serving the veterinary school for over two decades, Melanie had also served for over two decades as a hostess for the annual veterinary medical symposium. She provided dedicated and loyal service to Mrs. Carrie King, symposium registrar, assisting faithfully in whatever capacity necessary to help get the behind-the-scenes symposium registration material ready for the largest continuing education event at the School of Veterinary Medicine. She also faithfully served as an usher for the spring commencement exercises for Tuskegee University.

Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

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Deceased Alumni Billups and Deberry Make Lasting Donations to TUSVM

Mrs. Billups and Mrs. Adams make presentation to TUSVM.

ALUMNI NEWS

Deberry Family make presentation to TUSVM.

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Dr. and Mrs. Deberry

Dr. and Mrs. Billups

Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

During the State-of-theSchool luncheon at the annual veterinary medical symposium on March 20, a special recognition presentation was made for the naming of two rooms in the proposed new veterinary medical teaching hospital. Mrs. Harriet Billups, wife of the late TUSVM professor Dr. Leonard Billups, along with Mrs. Eugene Adams, wife of professor emeritus Eugene Adams, made the presentation for the Dr. Leonard Billups Memorial Diagnostic Pathology Lab. Eugene Adams was the mentor and inspiration for Dr. Billups to pursue a pathology career path. Mrs. Karen Cole and other family members of the late Dr. and Mrs. Deberry made the presentation for the William and Katie Deberry Microbiology Lab. In 2004, the Leonard and Harriet Billups Endowment Fund was established by him and his family to strengthen veterinary pathology and laboratory animal medicine programs within TUSVM. To date, family members and friends have contributed over $47,500. Dr. Billups, a 1965 graduate of TUSVM, was an admired and respected academician, accomplished pathologist, and talented artist and gardener. His career in veterinary pathology covered a period of 44 years.

The naming of the William and Katie Deberry Microbiology Lab is made possible by a gift of $35,000 from the Deberrys’ estate. Dr. Deberry, a 1962 graduate of TUSVM, was a veterinary medical officer for the USDA for almost three decades and led an active life of community service.

TUSVM Alumnus and Wife Are Given Special Award A simple thank you sometimes just doesn’t seem to be enough. So, Ebony Gilbreath, TUSVM alumna and now TUSVM faculty member, felt that the annual veterinary medical symposium would be the perfect opportunity to let Edward and Thomasine Braye know how appreciated they are and the difference they made in Gilbreath’s life as a student and so many others at TUSVM. She spear-headed the special recognition honoring the Brayes on the patio grounds of Williams-Bowie Hall on March 19. Dr. and Mrs. Braye were instrumental in helping to beautify the patio area at Williams-Bowie Hall that so many students as well as faculty and staff have enjoyed for both study and recreational purposes. Dr. Braye is a member of the class of 1952 and a retired faculty member of TUSVM. Several were in attendance to honor the Brayes including Dr. and Mrs. Matthew Jenkins. Dr. Jenkins served as acting president of Tuskegee University until the appointment of the university’s seventh president, Dr. Brian Johnson.

Tiffini Brabham (‘93) was among 13 champions for 2014 honored on April 10 at the U.S. pharmaceutical trade association Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America’s (PhRMA) annual meeting in Washington, D.C. She was among the recipients of the “We Work for Health Champions” by PhRMA. The award recognizes member company employees who not only excel in their everyday roles but also as advocates for the industry. Brabham, is an associate research fellow with Global Safety Pharmacology Drug Safety Research and Development.

She was honored as a strong advocate for Pfizer’s political action work through grassroots activities and the Political Action Committee (PAC).

William Draper (‘91), cofounder and practice manager of The Village Vets, was recently named the Purina Proplan/ Dogs in Review “Veterinarian of the Year.” He received the award at the 59th Annual Show Dogs of the Year Awards at Gotham Hall in New York City in February.

The event preceded the Westminster Dog Show. Draper was nominated by Live Oak Bank for the Special Industry Award for his commitment to the profession and his community.The Village Vets presently has three AAHA accredited practices that have been honored by Atlanta magazine as “Best Vet” since 2004. He was also recently honored as one of Atlanta’s FIVE STAR Veterinarians for his 22 years of practice in the metro Atlanta area, as well as his practices' commitment to pet rescue relief efforts. He and his wife, Francoise Tyler (’91), have four children, three dogs and four cats.

Melvin D. Howard (‘69) was the winner of the George H. Phelps Jr. Distinguished Citizen Award. The award recognized his work as past president of the Anne Arundel Veterinary Medical Association, the D.C. Academy of Veterinary Medicine, the Anne Arundel County Commission for Women and as a member of the Animal Control Commission for Anne Arundel County.

Irving McConnell (’80) was honored as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) eastern Pennsylvania and SBA mid-Atlantic Region’s 2014 8(a) Graduate of the Year on June 12. McConnell is CEO of The McConnell Group (TMG).

TMG was founded in Pennsylvania in 1996 as a health sciences company.

It is now headquartered in Rockville, Md., and continues to focus on biomedical research and biodefense research support services, while expanding into related practice areas based on client requirements. TMG has matured into several business sectors designed to work either together or independently. The company’s services are focused on supporting the nation in the areas of research, environmental science, defense and homeland security.

Ernest Rogers (‘91), forensic veterinarian and consultant veterinarian to the New Jersey SPCA Humane Law Enforcement, is training Mishka, an adopted canine, to be an article search dog (to find evidence) when he is doing work as a forensic veterinarian. Rogers is also president of Animal Forensic Investigations, LLC in Maplewood, NJ. Edgar Leonard Smith (‘59) now retired from serving as an inspector for the USDA, fills his time during retirement as a consultant for Hurley Dog and Cat Hospital in Detroit, MI. He received the Congressional Medal, for serving as a sharpshooter in the 51st Defense Battalion of the Montford Point Marines during World War II. He was a member of the first group of black Marines in the military from 1943-46. Smith was very proud to be included in the group of the first African American soldiers that were allowed to serve their country in WWII.

SBA’s Eastern Pennsylvania 8(a) Graduate of the Year award winner is "There were no black men allowed to go into the selected annually from among nominees located across Pennsylvania’s Marine Corps for 167 years before this time," Smith eastern 40 counties. Mid-Atlantic regional winners are selected annually said, referencing the directive signed into order by President Franklin D. from the winning nominees in Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania,Virginia, Roosevelt in 1941, integrating the Marine Corps. After being honorably West Virginia and Washington D.C. discharged in 1946 as a corporal, Smith attended Morehouse College in Georgia on a presidential scholarship and attended at the same time Willie Reed (’78) was appointed to the Zoetis, Martin Luther King, Jr. was either a junior or a senior at Morehouse.

Inc. Board of Directors for the Corporate Governance Committee. Reed is currently dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Purdue TUSVM Deceased Alumni for Spring/Summer 2014 University.

He has more than 30 years of experience in animal health and veterinary medicine. As a recognized expert in avian pathology, diagnostic medicine and infectious diseases, Zoetis selected Reed because he brings perspectives on veterinary medicine that will be crucial as Zoetis continues to enhance its reputation as a world leader in animal health. Reed is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists and charter diplomate of the American College of Poultry Veterinarians. He has served as president of the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges, president of the American Association of Veterinary Laboratory Diagnosticians, president of the American Association of Avian Pathologists, and chair of the AVMA Council on Research. He currently serves on the AVMA’s Member Services Committee.

COL Pedro J. Rico (‘94) got a double recognition by the U.S. Army. In March, he received the prestigious “A” Proficiency Designator. The “A” Proficiency Designator is the highest recognition for professional excellence granted by the Army Medical Department. To qualify for this honor, candidates must be qualified to serve as division chairman and have obtained national prominence in their specialty.

In May, Rico was promoted to the rank of Colonel (COL), the highest rank few veterinarians achieve in the U.S. Army. His selection to the rank of COL was based on a career of excellent job performance, difficulty of job assignments, and contributions to veterinary medicine – especially his contributions to the field of laboratory animal medicine. He is the first U.S. army veterinary officer originally from Puerto Rico to receive the “A” Proficiency Designator and the promotion to colonel. COL Rico is currently the director of the Veterinary Medicine Division, attending veterinarian and the laboratory animal medicine residency director at the U.S. Army Medical Research Institute of Infectious Diseases in Maryland.

Yekini Adekanmbi (’71) – passed March 2014 (Ibadan, Nigeria) Carole Jones (‘94) – passed on March 5, 2014 (Ridgewood, New Jersey) Edward Lamarr (‘81) – passed April 30, 2014 (Powder Springs, Georgia) John Moore (’77) – passed April 2014 (St. Thomas,Virgin Islands)

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ATTN: Anissa L. Riley Veterinary Medical Perspective Tuskegee University School of Veterinary Medicine Patterson Hall Tuskegee, AL 36088 334-724-4509 / 727-8177 (FAX) E-mail address: riley@mytu.tuskegee.edu

Tuskegee Veterinary Medical Perspective

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Nonprofit Org. US Postage

PAID

Montgomery, AL Permit No. 88

School of Veterinary Medicine Patterson Hall 1200 Old Montgomery Road Tuskegee Institute, AL 36088

College of Veterinary Medicine, Nursing & Allied Health “Veterinary medicine is a wonderful blend of science and soul.�

OPEN HOUSE Friday, September 26, 2014 9:30 a.m. until 2:45 p.m. Central Time Patterson Hall-School of Veterinary Medicine Visit the school, attend class, talk to current vet students, faculty, and learn why TUSVM should be your first choice for your future education.

----------------------------------------------TUSVM Open House provides high school students and parents valuable information on Pre-veterinarian requirements and ways to strength your credentials for a career path into becoming a veterinarian.

Hold this Date: Friday, September 26, 2014 Request registration form at mosleyr@mytu.tuskegee.edu or call (334) 727-8309