Washington State VMA
Event: Pacific Northwest Veterinary Conference, Oct. 7-9, 2016, Spokane, Washington
Awards Veterinarian of the Year: Dr. Mary Kay Hilmoe, Seattle. A 1985 graduate of the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Hilmoe co-owns The Family Pet Veterinary Hospital in Seattle, where she has practiced for almost 30 years. Washington State University Faculty Member of the Year: Dr. Stephen Hines, Pullman. A 1981 graduate of The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Hines serves as a professor of veterinary microbiology and pathology at the veterinary college. He is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists. Distinguished Veterinary Staff Award: Sandy Parks, Olympia. Parks is the bookkeeper for Olympia’s Steamboat Animal Hospital and was its first employee. She was recognized for her ability to solve problems; her dedication, patience, and knowledge; and her encouraging nature. Humane Animal Welfare Award: Stephanie Reihs, Yakima, for advancing animal welfare through extraordinary service. Reihs has been an animal control officer with the Yakima Humane Society for more than eight years. She also fosters dogs and cats. Recent Graduate Award: Dr. Lauren Neuhaus, Richland. A 2014 graduate of the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Neuhaus practices at Desert Veterinary Clinic in Richland. Allied Industry Partner Award: Amber Roney, Stevenson. A certified veterinary technician, Roney is a territory manager for Hill’s Pet Nutrition. She is known for her strong support of veterinary medicine via her dedication to nutrition education for the veterinary practice team.
Business: A new veterinary position of emerging leader intern was added to the board of directors. For 2017, the goals for the association’s strategic plan will be advocacy, communications, education, innovation, and membership.
Officials: Dr. Katherine Hickey, Poulsbo, president; Dr. Paul DeMaris, Snohomish, vice president; Dr. Diane Pinkers, Montesano, secretary; Candace Joy, Snowqualmie, executive vice president; Dr. Shawn Thomas, Belfair, emerging leader intern; directors—Drs. Jean Gulbransen (Duvall), Gary Marshall (Mercer Island), and Lisa Parshley (Olympia); and AVMA delegate and alternate delegate—Drs. Saundra Willis, Tacoma, and Diana Thome, Richland