Oregon VMA – April 1-3, 2022

Event

Oregon Veterinary Conference, held virtually, April 1-3, 2022

Awards

Veterinary Service Award
Dr. Stephen Kochis (Cornell ’96), Portland. Dr. Kochis is chief medical officer of the Oregon Humane Society. During his career, he has practiced at DoveLewis Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital in Portland and VCA Northwest Veterinary Specialists in Clackamas. Dr. Kochis is a past member of the OHS board of directors and is a past president of the Portland VMA.

Industry Representative Award
Keri Weppler, Portland. An area business manager for Zoetis, Weppler was recognized for her dedication to supporting veterinary professionals, their patients, and their clients. She is a past president of the Zoetis Women’s Council and has provided advisory support for the OVMA’s legislative efforts and coordinated relief assistance for pet owners in 2020 during Oregon’s wildfires.

President’s Award
Dr. Connie White (Oregon State ’97), Corvallis. Early in her career, Dr. White practiced mixed animal medicine in Wisconsin and Oregon. She later worked in critical care medicine at DoveLewis Veterinary Emergency & Specialty Hospital and practiced companion animal medicine at Fremont Veterinary Clinic in Portland. She is a past president of the Oregon VMA and is a past member of Oregon State University Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine’s Advisory Council. 

Business

Discussions were held and updates were given on disaster preparedness, basic training in canine first aid provided by the association for emergency medical technicians, navigating the pandemic, advocacy during the 2022 legislative session, and the Food and Drug Administration’s guidance document on veterinary compounding.

Officials

Dr. Gail Schroder, Eugene, president; Dr. Jill Parker, Philomath, president-elect; Dr. Charles Hurty, Siletz, vice president; Dr. Heidi Houchen, Portland, immediate past president; and Glenn Kolb, Salem, executive director