Dr. James Nave named recipient of 2023 AVMA Advocacy Award

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(SCHAUMBURG, Illinois) July 14, 2023—The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) has named former AVMA President Dr. James Nave as the winner of the 2023 AVMA Advocacy Award.

Established in 2008, the AVMA Advocacy Award recognizes an individual for their contribution to advancing the AVMA's legislative agenda and advocating on behalf of the veterinary profession.

"Dr. Nave's dedication to veterinary medicine and his tireless advocacy efforts truly embody the spirit of the AVMA Advocacy Award," said Dr. Lori Teller, president of the AVMA. "His significant contributions over the years have left an indelible mark on the profession, and we are thrilled to honor him with this award."

As a veterinary practice owner in Nevada, with additional interests in banking, hospitality and more, Dr. Nave has long recognized the importance of building relationships and engaging with lawmakers to influence policies that impact the veterinary profession. He has never hesitated to engage and advocate on behalf of the profession and the animals under veterinarians’ care. His support, often quiet but highly impactful, highlights his dedication to the profession he loves.

Since its inception, Dr. Nave has also been an ardent supporter of the AVMA Political Action Committee, raising more than $100,000 in support of the association’s federal lobbying efforts.

Dr. Nave has also been instrumental in enhancing the AVMA’s global advocacy efforts through ongoing dialogue between the AVMA Federation of Veterinarians of Europe, which has resulted in the development of multiple joint position statements on topics such as animal welfare, veterinary education, One Health and antimicrobial use and resistance.

Dr. Nave graduated in 1968 from the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine. Before becoming a leader in the veterinary field, Dr. Nave served as a Captain in the U.S. Army, stationed in Vietnam. His outstanding service earned him the Bronze Star, demonstrating his long-standing commitment to duty and excellence, which has been a hallmark of his contributions to the field of veterinary medicine and advocacy.

Dr. Nave has previously been recognized by the AVMA with the AVMA President’s Award (2003), the AVMA Award (2009), and the AVMA Global Veterinary Service Award (2022).

To view Dr. Nave’s acceptance video, click here or visit https://vimeo.com/843302511/1aa5fcadfa.

To learn more about the AVMA Advocacy Award and past recipients, visit www.avma.org/awards.

For more information, contact Michael San Filippo, media relations manager, at 847-732-6194 (cell) or msanfilippoatavma [dot] org (msanfilippo[at]avma[dot]org).

About the AVMA

Serving more than 105,000 member veterinarians, the AVMA is the nation's leading representative of the veterinary profession, dedicated to improving the health and wellbeing of animals, humans and the environment. Founded in 1863 and with members in every U.S. state and territory and more than 60 countries, the AVMA is one of the largest veterinary medical organizations in the world. Informed by our members' unique scientific training and clinical knowledge, the AVMA supports the crucial work of veterinarians and advocates for policies that advance the practice of veterinary medicine and improve animal and human health.