October 15, 2020
Florida VMA mourns death of long-time director
The Florida VMA announced that its long-serving executive director Philip J. Hinkle died Aug. 22 at the age of 58.
In a statement, the FVMA said: “Phil was a tireless champion of Florida’s veterinary medical community, and his passion served as an inspiration to everyone here at FVMA. It is impossible to put into words how greatly he will be missed.
“Over the course of his 34 years with the FVMA, Phil was known as a leader, mentor and friend. He will forever be remembered as an advocate for the thousands of veterinarians, technicians, practice managers and veterinary assistants in our state.”
Hinkle joined the FVMA in 1986 as director of finance and membership. He became deputy executive director in 2006 and executive director in 2007.
Under Hinkle’s leadership, the FVMA’s annual operating income grew from less than $1 million to more than $3.6 million, the number of full-time staff members went from four to 10, and membership increased from 2,500 to 5,900.
In 2011, Hinkle led the FVMA’s incorporation of the Florida Association of Equine Practitioners, which now operates under the operational umbrella of the FVMA as an equine-exclusive division.
Hinkle was born Nov. 17, 1961, in Vero Beach, Florida. He is survived by his wife, Janet; children, Amber Lynn Cameron, Ashley Marie Jones, and Michael Philip Hinkle; five grandchildren; and five sisters and one brother.