Dicks to retire from AVMA economics division

By R. Scott Nolen
Published on
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After five years as the AVMA's chief economist, Michael R. Dicks, PhD, is stepping down.

Dr. Dicks announced his retirement as director of the AVMA Veterinary Economics Division while speaking at the Association's Economic Summit on Oct. 23.

"A lot of you have helped me, mentored me, and provided me information. I couldn't ask for a better group of people to work with. It's been an honor to lead this work, and I'm indebted to you for your friendship and your guidance and your trust," Dr. Dicks told summit attendees.

Michael R. Dicks, PhD
Michael Dicks

Prior to joining the AVMA in 2013 as the first director of the fledgling Veterinary Economics Division, Dr. Dicks spent much of his career at Oklahoma State University studying the production, distribution, and consumption of agricultural goods and services.

Dr. Dicks hired a team of economists to study veterinary markets with the goal of helping veterinarians better understand the economic trends impacting their profession. During his tenure, the AVMA began offering personal finance tools and a program in increasing practice profitability and publishing the series of AVMA Veterinary Economic Reports, which provide analysis of such areas as veterinary income, educational debt, and employment.

In addition, Dr. Dicks publishes a monthly article in dvm360 magazine.

He plans to retire following the AVMA Convention 2018 in Denver. Dr. Dicks said he intends to spend his retirement fishing, enjoying time with his family, and writing.