Delegates vote to 'Leave it to Beaver'
On the final day of their session in Denver, July 19, members of the House of Delegates elected Dr. Bonnie V. Beaver as AVMA president-elect for 2003-2004. Dr. Beaver campaigned on the slogan "Leave it to Beaver," drawing parallels between her leadership abilities and the traditional values espoused on the 1960s television show. In her campaign speech last year, Dr. Beaver heralded the National Commission on Veterinary Economic Issues, encouraged the AVMA's participation in the global veterinary community, and stressed the need to maintain high-quality veterinary education. She also pledged to continue initiatives launched by former AVMA presidents and emphasized continuity in leadership as being critical to the success of the Association. In his nominating speech, Texas delegate Dr. Tony W. Brown delivered an audiovisual presentation as he nominated Dr. Beaver for president-elect. With the "Leave it to Beaver" theme song playing, pictures of Dr. Beaver through various aspects of her career were shown as Dr. Brown listed her career highlights. "Vision, teamwork, hard work, and nurturing—all traits Bonnie shares with her namesake," Dr. Brown said, referring to the industrious dam builder. Dr. Beaver is a professor in the Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery at Texas A&M University College of Veterinary Medicine. She is a charter diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists, for which she is a former president and current executive director. A 1968 graduate of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Beaver has been involved in organized veterinary medicine her entire career. She is an active member of the Texas VMA, and has served as its president and on the board of directors. With the AVMA, Dr. Beaver has served in various capacities, including Executive Board chair. After being elected by unanimous ballot, Dr. Beaver told delegates, "We have a long way to go and much to protect. The continuity of programs started by Jim Nave, and maintained by Jim (Brandt), Joe (Howell), and Jack (Walther), will be part of my vision, as well." Communication is important, Dr. Beaver continued, saying soon she'd be calling delegates as representatives of their allied associations to learn their interests. "I intend to continue working hard to represent the needs of all veterinarians, and with your help, I can." | ||