Dr. Tracy L. Hanner

Dr. Tracy L. Hanner received the Iverson Bell Award during the Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges' Iverson Bell Symposium March 13. Dr. Hanner is coordinator of the Laboratory Animal Science Program in the Department of Animal Sciences at North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University. He is also an adjunct assistant professor and clinical associate veterinarian. The award was given in recognition of Dr. Hanner's contributions in promoting opportunities for racially and ethnically underrepresented individuals in veterinary medical education. In 1986, Dr. Hanner became the first black graduate of the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine.

In his current position, Dr. Hanner worked to implement the Laboratory Animal Scholars Program, which provides tracked admission for NCA&TSU students into the NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine. He has mentored more than 4,000 students in related animal science and medicinal fields. More than 50 of his minority students attend U.S. veterinary schools.

The American Animal Hospital Association, meeting March 26-29 in Phoenix, recognized three veterinarians for their contributions to veterinary medicine.

Dr. Nancy D. Kay (COR '82) was the recipient of the Hill's Animal Welfare and Humane Ethics Award. After earning board certification in veterinary internal medicine, Dr. Kay established the Animal Care Center of Sonoma County in Rohnert Park, Calif. There, she runs a pet support group and conducts client communication rounds. Dr. Kay often lectures on the topic of client communication, and she wrote a medical-advocacy reference book for dog owners.

Dr. Mitsie Vargas (TUS '94) received the Nestle Purina Petcare Award. In 1996, Dr. Vargas started Orchid Springs Animal Hospital, an AAHA-accredited practice in Winter Haven, Fla. She has been active in local civic groups, the Ridge Veterinary Medical Society, and the Humane Society of Polk County. Dr. Vargas recently founded K-9 For Life to provide veterinary care for police dogs after their retirement. She writes the column "Vet Talk" for the Polk Voice.

Dr. Michael R. Grguric (OSU '03) was the recipient of the AAHA-Pfizer Leadership Award for AAHA member veterinarians who are recent graduates and have demonstrated commitment to the profession. He worked at three practices before joining 1st Emergency Pet Care as emergency director. Dr. Grguric mentors veterinary students at The Ohio State University, is a member of many industry organizations, and has authored several articles in veterinary journals.