President’s Column: Recognizing excellence—Who inspires you?

Throughout my veterinary career, I have observed colleagues who, in addition to serving their patients and clients, contribute positively to their communities and the broader veterinary profession.

Dr. James (Jim) Holt, a Pennsylvania veterinarian, enhances the food supply by developing transparent business models, supply chains, and farming practices. He leads Brandywine Veterinary Services, serves on the Pennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association Board, and holds leadership positions with groups like the Pennsylvania One Health Consortium.

Dr. Holt also teaches part-time at the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health and has participated with the American Association of Equine Practitioners’ Animal Health and Regulatory Committee. His expertise in production medicine supports his advocacy for collaborative One Health policies across veterinary, human, and environmental health. I feel honored to know him.

Dr. Vernard Hodges and Dr. Terrence Ferguson, also known as “The Critter Fixers,” are veterinarians who provide healthcare and educational outreach for a wide variety of animal species in rural regions. Their team addresses routine and emergency cases involving farm, exotic, and companion animals. Through their television program, they share the challenges and rewards of veterinary practice.

They participate in the AVMA “Vet for a Day” program, which offers elementary through high school students experience in veterinary care and fosters interest in the profession. The Critter Fixers travel throughout the United States engaging with students and stimulating interest in the roles and responsibilities of veterinarians and all veterinary healthcare professionals, allowing students to see firsthand what a veterinarian does—whether it’s CPR on a dog, an ultrasound, or understanding nutrition needs of pets.

I find it remarkable that I can have a chat with them at an AVMA event and then turn on my television and join thousands of others watching them in action!

Who inspires you?

I can’t think of a better way to express your appreciation.

These examples represent a few of the many individuals making noteworthy contributions within the profession. Recognizing such efforts can be achieved by sharing their stories, writing notes of appreciation, or nominating them for programs like the AVMA’s Excellence Awards.

The Excellence Awards cover areas such as public service, animal health and welfare, research, international affairs, volunteerism and leadership, and media. Recipients reflect the diversity of veterinary careers and the variety of ways professionals support animal, human, and environmental health, as well as organized veterinary medicine.

Nominations open in November

I encourage you to start thinking now about nominating someone who has made an impact on veterinary medicine for an AVMA Excellence Award. I can’t think of a better way to express your appreciation to someone who has influenced your veterinary career and who has made a profound difference in your life and the lives of animals and people!

When you nominate a colleague, you not only offer them the recognition they so richly deserve; you also give back to veterinary medicine by spotlighting the important work of veterinary professionals everywhere.

Nominations for the 2026 AVMA Excellence Awards open in November. For more information on the awards, including categories and how to nominate someone, visit avma.org/Awards.