Specialty organization proposed in veterinary education

Teaching touches every veterinarian, yet learning how to teach well is neglected in the field of higher education, according to the organizing committee of the proposed American College of Veterinary Medical Education.

The organizing committee has petitioned the AVMA American Board of Veterinary Specialties for recognition of the American College of Veterinary Medical Education as a veterinary specialty organization. In compliance with ABVS procedures, the board is seeking comment from the public and the profession regarding the proposed specialty organization.

“The proposed specialty college would recognize veterinarians with credentials and experience in veterinary medical education who are uniquely qualified to teach veterinary students, interns, and residents—the next generation of veterinarians responsible for providing exceptional animal care,” said Dr. Julie Hunt, associate dean for clinical sciences at Lincoln Memorial University-College of Veterinary Medicine and a member of the organizing committee. “Establishing the American College of Veterinary Medical Education would do more than recognize existing experts in veterinary education; it would drive future veterinary educators to obtain the training and expertise to become tomorrow’s exceptional educators.”

According to the organizing committee’s one-page summary of the proposed specialty organization, there is no education specialty within higher education broadly or any professional education field specifically. The committee concludes, “This is a remarkable opportunity for veterinarians to lead rather than follow in the health professions education space.”

All AVMA-recognized specialty organizations and specialties must comply with recognition guidelines outlined in the ABVS Policies and Procedures manual. Commenters should refer to those guidelines when developing feedback regarding the proposed specialty organization.

A link to the one-page summary submitted by the proposed specialty organization can be found on the ABVS website. Send comments regarding consideration of recognition of the American College of Veterinary Medical Education as a veterinary specialty organization to ABVSavma [dot] org. Comments must be signed and received no later than Feb. 28.