Meet the candidate: Dr. Robert H. Knapp

Candidate: AVMA president-elect (2026-27)

Statement by the candidate

Although I knew I wanted to follow in my grandfather and father’s footsteps and become a veterinarian, it wasn’t until I started working in the clinic that I realized the impact this profession and my family had on others. Beyond the obvious relationships with the clients and their pets, there were many other, equally important connections forged within the four walls of the hospital. I watched as my grandfather and father guided students who aspired to be veterinarians, mentored recent graduates who wanted a chance to prove themselves, and supported colleagues who wanted to make a difference. It became my goal to honor and continue the reputation for compassionate care established by grandfather and father, and I strive to earn the same degree of trust and respect from my colleagues.

I have seen firsthand the significant impact veterinarians can have when we work together to solve problems. Organized veterinary medicine is more important to our profession now than ever before, and our members’ continued engagement is vital to our future. Today’s issues are complex and inextricably linked: an increasingly complex regulatory environment, economic cycles affecting changing needs with the workforce, emerging diseases, member wellbeing, student debt, telemedicine, challenges to delivery of services, drug shortages, and changes to practice ownership are just a few of the complicated matters we must address together. Our representative organizations are challenged to provide the tools and information members need to adapt and thrive in this new environment; therefore, veterinarians must work alongside our local, state, and national organizations to confront these issues, to ensure the veterinary voice is heard, and to commit to being part of the solution to these challenges.

I have been honored to serve this profession at the state and more recently at the national level. My goal in leadership has always been to put the needs of the profession and our members first. As a results-driven team member, I work with all stakeholders to find solutions to problems, ensuring everyone involved feels their input was valuable and duly considered. I approach challenges with an open mind and consider all sides before forming an opinion. I am not afraid of change, nor do I shy away from controversy or from taking an unpopular stance on an issue if I believe it to be right. I have been fortunate to have the opportunity to learn from countless role models throughout my life—from my family’s clinic, to veterinary school, to organized veterinary medicine—and look forward to continuing to work with our diverse membership.

As your president-elect, I pledge to continue being a practical, pragmatic, and member-driven voice for the profession and in service to the AVMA.