“If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more and become more, you are a leader.” – John Quincy Adams
Dean Michael Lairmore assumes role of President of AAVMC in March.
This week I have the distinct privilege to be appointed as President of the American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC), during the association’s annual conference in Washington, D.C. The conference will focus on “The Science of Building Inclusive Teams,” to promote more effective group decision-making and organizational development.
The mission of the AAVMC is parallel to the School’s mission, through the promotion of health of people, animals and the environment by advancing the profession and the education of veterinary students to meet the needs of a changing world. In assuming a leadership position in this organization, I am proud to represent the values, aspirations, and goals of our School beyond UC Davis.
Students attend a career fair where veterinary practices and vendors, along with government agencies meet and talk to students about internships, externships, full and part-time employment.
Working across the world, the AAVMC catalyzes initiatives to evaluate and improve veterinary medical education, and encourages students to explore the full-breadth of career opportunities offered to veterinarians. The organization advocates for the recruitment and retention of underrepresented minorities and promotes the power of inclusive teams. During the annual AAVMC Conference, academic leaders visit the nation’s capital to inform policymakers about the value of veterinarians as part of the healthcare workforce, and the importance of government programs that support our students who seek to contribute to the public good.
The AAVMC helps support our leadership efforts in education such as the West Region Veterinary Teaching Academy (RTA). The School will host the RTA biannual conference in Davis, June 25th to 27th, which will focus on the “Cognitive Integration of Basic and Clinical Sciences.” The Teaching Academy promotes collaborations to promote best practices in veterinary medical education and champions the careers of academic educators—thereby addressing the needs of society and the profession.
Our School’s global leadership position and reputation, in veterinary medicine and science, is a reflection of how we collectively contribute to our profession and society. My contributions as an AAVMC leader inspire me to be a better leader and are personally rewarding, giving me the privilege and pride to extend my contributions to the future of the profession and tell our collective story on a national and international level. I look forward to this year of service.