Minnesota VMA

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Event: 120th annual convention, Feb. 23-25, Minneapolis
Program: The convention drew more than 2,200 attendees and included a panel discussion on solutions for the challenges of delivering pet care to low-income families.
Awards: Veterinarian of the Year: Dr. Earl Thompson, Albert Lea. A 1955 graduate of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Thompson founded and serves as program director for the Nepal Social Service Fund, a Minnesota-based nonprofit providing agricultural, veterinary, health, and educational programs to the people of Nepal. Early in his career, he practiced in Freeborn County. President’s Award: Dr. Jerald Sprau, Elkton. A 1968 graduate of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Sprau owned Scenic Hills Animal Hospital prior to retirement. He served as president of the MVMA from 1988-1989. Distinguished Veterinary Service Award, given for service to the veterinary profession and contributions to animal well-being: Drs. Gala Beckendorf, Nicollet; Kevin Haroldson, Park Rapids; and David Wright, Buffalo. A 1981 graduate of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Beckendorf practices at Nicollet Veterinary Clinic. She was honored for her work as coordinator of educational displays in the Nursery of Knowledge at the Minnesota State Fair’s Miracle of Birth Center, an agricultural education exhibit. A 1975 graduate of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Haroldson owns Back Roads Veterinary Clinic. He was recognized for his work in large animal obstetrics and reproduction at the Miracle of Birth Center, where he recently helped establish the Hen House, a display featuring laying hens in various types of housing. A 1977 graduate of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Wright owns Wright Veterinary Services, also practicing at Buffalo Equine and Large Animal Clinic. Emerging Leader Award: Dr. Anna Ruelle, Young America. A 2011 graduate of the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Ruelle owns Countryside Veterinary Clinic. Outstanding Industry Representative Award: Hilary Salzwedel, Jordan. Salzwedel is district sales manager at Boehringer Ingelheim Animal Health. In 2015, she served as a regional development coach for the company’s Midwest region, training new representatives in the classroom and in the field. Salzwedel was recognized for her service to Minnesota veterinarians and for promoting the profession.
Officials: Drs. Tim Krienke, St. Paul, president; David Fell, Jackson, president-elect; Joni Scheftel, Mayer, vice president; Jim Winsor, Inver Grove Heights, secretary-treasurer; and Ginger Garlie, Stillwater, immediate past president