…from the president T his is the first news letter of my term as president of the SFT; I am honored to be in this position and will try and continue the leadership that my predecessors have shown.The meet- ing in Charleston was very successful, both financially and educa- tionally.I thought that the papers presented were outstanding and I want to congratulate the program chairs and the speakers for a job well done. Dr Wolfe has led the organization through an exciting time as we developed our alliance with Elsevier. I believe that this will be an advantageous partnership for the organization as we move forward. It has presented some challenges in timing and style, but as we become more comfortable with the format I believe that it will be a progressive step for the future. I would certainly like to thank Dr.Dwight Wolfe and all of those who helped him in the preparation of the conference proceedings. All of the sessions were well attended and the interest in small animal Theriogenology was particularly exciting.The small animal section of our meeting has grown and I believe with the leadership provided by the members of the Society it will continue to grow.The growth of companion animal Theriogenology reflects the changing demographics of our profession. If our Society is going to continue to serve the entire profession and its client base we need to make sure we continue to fill their needs. Our role in providing informa- tion and leadership in companion animal Theriogenology is essential for the continued growth of the Society and I am sure that with the leadership and expertise available we will be able to meet these needs. I believe that in 1954 the founders of the Rocky Mountain Society for the Study of Breeding Soundness in Bulls would find it hard to believe that in 2005 the Society had a demonstration on electroejaculation in the cat.We have come a long way and look for more and improved information in the future.Please feel free to make any suggestions or criticisms of any parts of the program.This is your organization and we must provide the information that you feel is important if we are to prosper. To continue in the same vein,I would like to emphasize that over the years much of our leadership has been provided by our colleagues that are both members of the College of Theriogenologists and the Society.They have provided excellent and able leadership, but possibly we have given the impression to some that participation in the leadership of the organization by practitioners was discouraged.This is a practitioner organization and although it is closely associated with the ACT by the nature of our mutual interest the SFT’s missions is to serve, educate, and assist the practicing veterinarian. Please provide us with input and you will be heard.This is your organization and the only way we can make it grow is to provide services that meet your needs.All of the officers, the board members and the executive director will be happy to hear from you. The coming year is going to provide us with new and exciting opportunities to change and grow the organization.A branding study being conducted by Stewart and Associates will bring us new insight into the needs and wants of our members. Hopefully they will also give us the tools to meet the challenges that lay head. I hope everyone has had an enjoyable sum- mer and as we are settling down for the fall and winter that we will have the opportunity to communicate with each other and develop relationships that will make our organization stronger. DR. WALTER ZENT SFT NANDI, SACRED BULL AND SYMBOL OF FRUITFULNESS news Vol. 28, No. 3 SUMMER 2005 THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR THERIOGENOLOGY From the President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Student Case Presentation Session . . . . . . . . . . . .2 Dr. Jerry Rains Memorial Abstract Competition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 2005 Conference Memories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Come Join Us — SFT/ACT Conference & Symposia . . . . . . . . . . . . .4 Annual Conference Case Presentation . . . . . . . . .4 Sponsors & Exhibitors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Mark Your Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 Potpourri and Iagniappe from a comparative theriogenologist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 Call for Articles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9 Canine Frozen Semen Identification Form . . . . .10 In Memorium — Dr. Richard A. McFeely . . . . . .11 ACT 2005-2006 Officers & Board of Directors . .11 ACT President’s Message . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Theriogenologist of the Year . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 ACT Diplomates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Theriogenologist of the Year Award Nominations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 Delegate Report of the SFT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 SFT 2005-2006 Board of Directors . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Make Plans to Join Your Colleagues in Pig’s Eye, Better Known Today as St. Paul, for 2006 SFT/ACT CONFERENCE & SYMPOSIA AUGUST 22-26, 2006 ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA In 1838, a Canadian voyageur made his way to a cave near Fort Snelling in the Dakota Territory, along the Mississippi River. He had an odd eye that gave “a kind of piggish expression to his sodden, low features.” This man, Pig’s Eye Parrant, sold rum from his cave and was, with a nearby homesteader, among the first to settle in the area, which became known as Pig’s Eye. Fortunately, Father Lucian Galtier came to the region in 1841 and built a church, which he named the chapel of St. Paul. And so it is to St. Paul that we welcome you to the Society for Theriogenology meeting, August 22-26, 2006. Dr. Peter Chenoweth is assembling a great group of speakers to present information on infectious causes of infertility and other topics of interest. There will be a bovine sym- posium, a small animal symposium regarding population control, and a scientific meeting for dog breeders held in conjunction with the meeting. Don’t miss the family night event (a stern wheel paddleboat trip on the Mississippi) and visits to the Mall of America (9.5 million square feet of shopping, an amusement park, restaurants and Legoland), the Science Museum of Minnesota and the Children’s Museum. Minnesota brought you Post-It notes, Spam and Pig’s Eye beer, and now it brings you the SFT annu- al meeting – come join us in the land of 10,000 lakes in 2006!
Transcript
…from the presidentThis is the first news letter of my term as president of the SFT;
I am honored to be in this position and will try and continuethe leadership that my predecessors have shown.The meet-
ing in Charleston was very successful, both financially and educa-tionally. I thought that the papers presented were outstanding and Iwant to congratulate the program chairs and the speakers for a jobwell done.
Dr Wolfe has led the organization through an exciting time as we developed our alliancewith Elsevier. I believe that this will be an advantageous partnership for the organization aswe move forward. It has presented some challenges in timing and style, but as we becomemore comfortable with the format I believe that it will be a progressive step for the future. Iwould certainly like to thank Dr. Dwight Wolfe and all of those who helped him in thepreparation of the conference proceedings.
All of the sessions were well attended and the interest in small animal Theriogenologywas particularly exciting.The small animal section of our meeting has grown and I believewith the leadership provided by the members of the Society it will continue to grow.Thegrowth of companion animal Theriogenology reflects the changing demographics of ourprofession. If our Society is going to continue to serve the entire profession and its clientbase we need to make sure we continue to fill their needs. Our role in providing informa-tion and leadership in companion animal Theriogenology is essential for the continuedgrowth of the Society and I am sure that with the leadership and expertise available we willbe able to meet these needs. I believe that in 1954 the founders of the Rocky MountainSociety for the Study of Breeding Soundness in Bulls would find it hard to believe that in2005 the Society had a demonstration on electroejaculation in the cat.We have come a longway and look for more and improved information in the future. Please feel free to make anysuggestions or criticisms of any parts of the program.This is your organization and we mustprovide the information that you feel is important if we are to prosper.
To continue in the same vein, I would like to emphasize that over the years much of ourleadership has been provided by our colleagues that are both members of the College ofTheriogenologists and the Society.They have provided excellent and able leadership, butpossibly we have given the impression to some that participation in the leadership of theorganization by practitioners was discouraged.This is a practitioner organization andalthough it is closely associated with the ACT by the nature of our mutual interest the SFT’smissions is to serve, educate, and assist the practicing veterinarian. Please provide us withinput and you will be heard.This is your organization and the only way we can make it growis to provide services that meet your needs.All of the officers, the board members and theexecutive director will be happy to hear from you.
The coming year is going to provide us with new and exciting opportunities to changeand grow the organization.A branding study being conducted by Stewart and Associates willbring us new insight into the needs and wants of our members. Hopefully they will also giveus the tools to meet the challenges that lay head. I hope everyone has had an enjoyable sum-mer and as we are settling down for the fall and winter that we will have the opportunity tocommunicate with each other and develop relationships that will make our organizationstronger.
DR. WALTER ZENTSFTNANDI,SACRED BULL ANDSYMBOL OFFRUITFULNESS news
Vol. 28, No. 3
S U M M E R 2 0 0 5
T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C A T I O N O F T H E S O C I E T Y F O R T H E R I O G E N O L O G Y
From the President . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
In 1838, a Canadian voyageur made his way to a cave near FortSnelling in the Dakota Territory, along the Mississippi River. He had an oddeye that gave “a kind of piggish expression to his sodden, low features.” Thisman, Pig’s Eye Parrant, sold rum from his cave and was, with a nearbyhomesteader, among the first to settle in the area, which became known asPig’s Eye. Fortunately, Father Lucian Galtier came to the region in 1841 andbuilt a church, which he named the chapel of St. Paul.
And so it is to St. Paul that we welcome you to the Society forTheriogenology meeting, August 22-26, 2006. Dr. Peter Chenoweth isassembling a great group of speakers to present information on infectious
causes of infertility and other topics of interest. There will be a bovine sym-posium, a small animal symposium regarding population control, and ascientific meeting for dog breeders held in conjunction with the meeting.
Don’t miss the family night event (a stern wheel paddleboat trip on theMississippi) and visits to the Mall of America (9.5 million square feet ofshopping, an amusement park, restaurants and Legoland), the ScienceMuseum of Minnesota and the Children’s Museum. Minnesota brought youPost-It notes, Spam and Pig’s Eye beer, and now it brings you the SFT annu-al meeting – come join us in the land of 10,000 lakes in 2006!
2 S U M M E R 2 0 0 5 N E W S L E T T E R
The Gentle Breeze of the Atlantic Blew in a Successful 2005 SFT/ACTConference and Symposia In Breathtaking Charleston South Carolina
At the 2005 SFT Annual Conferencefive students were selected tocompete in the student case pres-
entation session. These students showedthe membership what our future holds.They presented their cases like veteransboth with case abstracts and their pre-sentations. This session alone was worththe trip to Charleston, South Carolina. Itproved to be a great addition to analready outstanding conference.
Modesty Dallmeyer from theUniversity of Pennsylvania was awardedfirst place and $450.00 for her caseabstract and presentation on “SpermAccumulation in a Stallion”.
Kelly Giunta from the University of
Pennsylvania was awarded second placeand $375.00 for her case abstract andpresentation on “Trauma InducedInfertility in a Stallion Associated with aUnique Sperm Midpiece Defect”.
Erin Sellers from the University ofFlorida was awarded third place and$300.00 for her case abstract and presen-tation on “Hemorrhagic Vulvar Dischargein a Pregnant Bitch”.
Rosanne Gilbert from the Universityof Oregon was awarded fourth place and$225.00 for her case abstract and presen-tation on “Interstitial Cell Tumor in aFemale Alpaca with Androgenization”.
Monnie Carol Carter from AuburnUniversity was awarded fifth place and$150.00 for her case abstract and presen-tation on “Diagnosis and SurgicalTreatment of Penile Hematoma in theBull”.
We would like to give a special thankyou to the faculty advisers that helpedthese students put the cases together
and prepare for competition. This ses-sion was enjoyed by all that participated.
The stars of the session were the stu-dents.They should all be proud of a jobwell done.The future of the SFT and theveterinary profession is brighter thanever because of these outstanding youngprofessionals. We hope to see thesesuper students and others at the StudentCase Presentation session next year in St.Paul, Minnesota.
The Scientific Abstract Competitionprovided a glimpse into the highcaliber of research being conduct-
ed in the discipline of theriogenology. Inresponse to a call for abstracts, 21 gradu-ate students or people in a clinical resi-dency program submitted abstracts inthe competitive category before theMarch 15 deadline.
The abstracts were scored for scientif-ic content by a 4-member committeechaired by Dr. Craig Smith, and the com-petitors with the top 8 scores were invit-ed to present their abstracts at the SFTmeeting in Charleston. The oral presen-tations were also scored, and the aggre-gate score for the written abstract andoral presentation was used to determinethe top 4 finishers.
Winners of the Dr. Jerry RainsMemorial Abstract Competition spon-sored by Intervet were, first place
($1,000) Ms. Stacey Rebello, Gainesville,FL.,“The detection of placental drugtransfer in equine allantoic fluid”, secondplace ($750) Dr. Jason Hudson, Ft.Collins, CO.,“Vitrification of cooledequine embryos”, third place ($500) Dr.Andria Desvousges, Gainesville, FL.,“Aselective role of seminal plasma in PMN-binding and phagocytosis of live andnon-viable equine spermatozoa”, fourthplace ($250) Dr. Pritpal Malhi, Saskatoon,Canada,“Bovine model to study age-asso-ciated infertility in women: developmen-tal competence of oocytes”.
If you are interested in submitting anabstract for 2006, go to www.theri-ogenology.org for further informationregarding the abstract competition, orcontact the ACT Association Office, P.O.Box 3065, Montgomery,AL 36109;phone (334)395-4666; fax (334)270-3399or e-mail [email protected].
Dr. Jerry Rains Memorial Abstract Competition
2005 STUDENT CASE PRESENTATION SESSIONCONFERENCE& SYM POS IACharlestonCharlestonCharlestonAUGUST 9-13, 2005F r a n c i s M a r i o n H o t e lCharleston, South Carolina
SFT/ACT
Dr. Craig Smith, ACT Diplomate and chair of the ScientificAbstract Committee with Competitive Abstract Winners(left to right) Dr. Jason Hudson (2nd), Ms. Stacey Rebello(1st), Dr. Pritpal Malhi (4th) and Dr. Andria Desvousges(3rd).
Pictured with Dr. James Alexander, Student CasePresentation Winners (left to right) Ms. Rosanne Gilbert(4th), Ms. Modesty Dallmeyer (1st), Ms. Kelly Giunta(2nd), Ms. Erin Sellers (3rd) and Ms. Monnie CarolCarter (5th)
3S U M M E R 2 0 0 5 N E W S L E T T E R
CONFERENCEMEMORIES
Incoming SFT President Dr. Walter Zent (left) accepts Nandi from Outgoing SFT President
Dr. Dwight Wolfe
Kids and grown-ups alike enjoyed the Family Fun Night at the Aquarium.
Dr. Louis Archbald—2005 Bartlett Award Winner with his lovely family
Equine Symposium
Small Animal Symposium
Dr. Dirk Vanderwall—Theriogenologist of the Year
Dr. Henry Childers—President of the AVMA Outgoing ACT President Dr. Margo Macpherson presents Presidents Plaque
to Incoming ACT President Dr. John Steiner
2005Exhibits
4 S U M M E R 2 0 0 5 N E W S L E T T E R
Come Join Us On The Mighty Mississippi For Our 2006 SFT/ACT Annual Conference & SymposiaFollowing the
recent highlysuccessful
meeting inCharleston, theorganizers of the
2006 Conference know that they have anextremely high standard to uphold,including maintaining the momentum ofthe highly acclaimed new-format pub-lished proceedings.The challenge to holdthe greatest conference ever has beenaccepted with alacrity! All indications arewe will hold an exceptional conferencein lovely St. Paul. Start making plans to bethere!
A FEW TANTALISING DETAILS... The theme is Infectious Infertility, with
the sub themes of Evidence BasedMedicine/Epidemiology. Strong emphasisis being placed on relevant and stimulat-ing information for practitioners withstrong dairy, equine and small animalthemes. John Thomson, Dean at IowaState, will be the dynamic keynote speak-er. Exciting Symposia are planned forDairy and Small Animal (courtesy ofCarlos Risco and Peggy Root Kustritzrespectively) as well as a separate all-dayprogram targeted at small animal breed-ers.A session is planned on Therio-genology educational issues and opportu-nities. Highly popular features of the 2005
meeting, such as abstract and student casepresentations will be again featured.
The social events will also be highlyenjoyable and memorable (how does apaddle-wheel trip on the Mississippisound for fun night?), with availability ofadditional events for attending familymembers – including trips to the Mall ofAmerica, zoo, arboretum, children’s muse-um and innumerable other wonderfulactivities.The list is growing!
So, on behalf of the session chairs(Peggy Root Kustritz, Juan Samper, CarlosRisco), I urge you to strongly considerattending the 2006 conference in St.Paul.We guarantee it will be the best yet,especially if you are there!
DR. PETER CHENOWETH
Annual Conference Student Case PresentationATTENTION TO ALL SFT STUDENT MEMBERS!
The SFT Program Committee ispleased to announce the call forsubmission of student theriogenol-
ogy case presentation at the annual con-ference in St. Paul.The competition willbe held during the annual conference inAugust, 2006.
The purpose of this competition is topromote student interest in SFT, toencourage your investigative and com-munication skills and allow studentsgreater participation in our annual meet-
ing.All SFT student members are quali-fied to enter the competition.
This competition will give the SFTmembership a look at future leaders andparticipants of the SFT. Six student caseswill be selected for presentation at theannual conference competition. Do youhave a CPC presentation you have givenor that you are preparing? You can sub-mit it, as long as it is on theriogenology.
A copy of the guidelines and submis-sion instructions can be obtained fromthe SFT office, your SFT faculty liaison, orDr.Alexander.We will require manu-scripts to be submitted by February 15,2006.A panel of practitioners and acade-micians will select six manuscripts forpresentation in St. Paul and notify thestudents by March 30, 2006.The studentswill be responsible for making their owntravel arrangements and accommoda-tions.
Please be aware that this is a competi-tion.The contestants will be judged onboth the quality of their investigationand the quality of the presentation.Therefore you must attend the meetingin St. Paul to be eligible for the awards.The SFT will award six cash prizes:
First place $ 650Second place $ 525Third place $ 450
Fourth place $ 375Fifth place $ 300Sixth place $ 200
More than one student may beinvolved with the presentation of a caseor research project, however only oneprize will be awarded per presentation.
Please refer to the “Guidelines forApplication Submission” on the SFT web-site for preparation of your manuscript.Each presentation will be 10 minutes inlength.Time has been allotted for ques-tions after each presentation.
Please contact your SFT faculty liaisonfor more information and for assistancein preparing your manuscript.You mayalso contact Dr. James H.Alexander at theaddress below.We hope you will partici-pate in this event.We look forward tohearing from you.
Sincerely,
James H.Alexander, DVMAlexander Veterinary1810 GlencrestYazoo City, Ms. 39040Home : 662-746-8307Cell : 601-946-1296Email: [email protected]
Sponsors and ExhibitorsThe SFT & ACT would like to thank our Sponsors and Exhibitors for their continued support of our Annual Conference and Symposia.
SPONSORS EVENT SPONSORS
PLATINUM Animal Reproduction Systems
Pfizer Minitube of AmericaFriday Fun Night IMV International
Pfizer Animal Health
Fort Dodge Animal Health
SILVER Hagyard PharmacyFort Dodge Animal Health MILA International Theriogenologists of the Endoscopy Support ServicesYear Award & Lunch ALOKA
Universal Ultrasound
BronzeIntervet Competitive Abstract Competition
MonsantoDr. Mike Overton
Sponsors & Exhibitors
MARK YOUR CALENDARSFT/ACT Annual Conference
& Symposia
St. Paul, MinnesotaAugust 22-26, 2006
Monterey, CaliforniaAugust 7-11, 2007
ALOKA UltrasoundAnimal Reproduction SystemsBioniche Animal Health USA, IncC&M X-Ray, Inc.Classic Medical Supply, Inc..Elsevier PublishingEZ Animal Products, LLCHagyard Pharmacy
Hamilton Thorne Biosciences, Inc.Jorgensen Laboratories, Inc.Karl Storz Veterinary EndoscopyMILA InternationalMinitube of AmericaPfizer Animal HealthPRN PharmacalReproduction Resources
Saying Thanks to Dr. Robert Youngquist and Welcome to Dr. Harris Maxwell—SFT Newsletter Editor
The SFT Office has copies of the 2002 &2003 proceedings on diskette along withthe 2004 on diskette and bound book forsale for $25.00 each. If you would like topurchase a copy of either the 2002,2003 or2004 proceedings you may either call theSFT office (334) 395-4666 or you may go towww.therio.org and place your order.
S P O N S O R S A N D E X H I B I T O R S
6 S U M M E R 2 0 0 5 N E W S L E T T E R
Potpourri and lagniappe from a comparative theriogenologistLouis F.Archbald, DVM, MS, PhD, DACT, Professor & Associate Chair
Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary MedicineUniversity of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
“There is no security in life, only opportunity”.
-General Douglas MacArthur
“Our great fear is not that we are powerless, but that we are powerful
beyond measure”.-Nelson Mandela
Introduction
It is with sincere humility and a deep senseof appreciation that I accept this most pres-tigious award, the 2005 Dave E. Bartlett
Award. I do this with the realization that manyindividuals have played important roles in mylife and my career, have contributed to my suc-cess, and I also accept this award on theirbehalf.
It is not unusual to be away from my officefor a couple of hours and return to see a blink-ing red button on my telephone signifyingmany incoming calls. It was no different anumber of months ago. I was lumberingthrough these messages when I was struck byone from Dr. Charles Franz, Society for Therio-genology, Alabama. My first question was: aremy dues not paid? I thought I did! In fact, Iknew I did, since I have a very proficient andastute partner (my wife,Sonja) who handles allthe business affairs of our enterprise. My sec-ond question was: am I being requested toserve on a committee? Either way, myimpression was that it is fairly important toreturn this call as soon as possible. Surprised,overwhelmed, flattered, humbled, and ecstaticcould best describe the sudden emotionalrollercoaster on hearing that I was chosen to
be the 22nd recipient of the Dave E. BartlettAward! After all, I knew what this meant, andI have always recognized the prestigiousnature of this award. It seemed even more spe-cial considering my “Minnesota connection”.
Almost immediately, I rushed home to tellSonja the good news.After a huge congratula-tory hug and kiss, she said: “You accepted it,didn’t you?”. The obvious answer was “Yes”;but, I have to prepare a paper for presentationat the theriogenology meeting in August, andconsidering all we have to accomplish rightnow there does not seem to be much time forpreparation”. “You can do it, and I willhelp”, she responded. These were familiarwords, ones that have echoed throughout ourrelationship during the past 40 years.So,at thispoint, I would like to recognize her; truly,“thewind beneath my wings”.
The most difficult part of this presentationwas choosing a topic and a proper title.Havingthe privilege of reading the presentations ofthe previous 21 recipients, I noticed that theyall contained aspects of changes in society, inveterinary medicine, and forecasts for thefuture of theriogenology. In addition, they allgave some form of advice. The latter remind-ed me of the story I once heard about some-one who wrote a biography of Socrates. It wasvery brief and consisted of three sentences: i)Socrates was an old Greek man; ii) he gaveadvice; iii) they killed him! Therefore, I willrefrain from giving any advice, lest I am besetwith the same fate!
I have decided to be personal. However, Ionce read that “people ignore what yousay. They are only concerned with whatyou do. Consequently, I have decided to pres-ent a few of my experiences and accomplish-ments encompassed in the journey which hasled me here today to be the 22nd recipient ofthis most prestigious award.Also, I would liketo briefly mention a few current issues/chal-lenges which I think will influence the futuredirection of the SFT/ACT, and probably theentire veterinary profession.
With this in mind, I chose the title:“Potpourri and lagniappe from a compar-ative theriogenologist”. The definition of pot-pourri (po poo re’) is: a “mixture of driedpetals of roses or other flowers with spiceskept in a jar for their fragrance”. Althoughmy experiences and accomplishments have notalways been “roses”, I must admit that what I docertainly generates a special fragrance! The def-inition of lagniappe (lanyap’, lan’yap) is: some-thing given with a purchase to a customer
by way of compliment or for good meas-ure”; “something additional”. My lagniappewill consist of a few issues which I think willhave a dramatic impact on the future ofSFT/ACT, and probably the entire veterinaryprofession. “Comparative”: I am multi-speciesoriented, and have used several “disciplines” inthe whole arena of animal reproduction.“Theriogenologist”: I guess we are still tryingto define what this is!!
Potpourri (“a mixture of “…..)I was born in Trinidad,West Indies, youngest
of eight children (six boys and 2 girls). Myfather was a Magistrate/Judge, and his brotherwas a Queens Counsel,one of the highest ranksin the British judicial system. They were bothfrom an urban background. One of my auntswas involved in politics and held the position ofMayor on numerous occasions in the city inwhich we lived. She was also knighted as amember of the British Empire (O.B.E).My moth-er came from a pastoral heritage in which ani-mals (mainly the horse) predominated, and Iwas raised in the city, minutes away from theCaribbean Sea, where palm and coconut treesabounded. From my earliest childhood I real-ized that education and the attainment of a pro-fessional career were important intrinsic valuesin our household.
The two most revered professions duringmy childhood were Medicine (human) andLaw.Although the single most economic com-modity was oil, the acquisition of professionalcareers in petroleum/chemical engineeringwas not as really sought as were those inMedicine and Law. Land-based agriculture wasmore popular than animal-based agriculture,and any interest in Veterinary Medicine was rel-atively low. It was a major surprise, and proba-bly one of disappointment to everyone, when Imade the choice to pursue veterinary medi-cine as a professional career since it wasexpected that I would be either a Physician ora Lawyer. The circumstances and the reasonsfor making this decision are still somewhatvague. I did not have any role models in the vet-erinary profession,or any extensive experiencein this area. I did have a cursory knowledge ofwhat the profession demands, and what weresome of the rewards of this profession.
“Boldness has genius, power and magic in it.”
-Goethe
Armed with a dream, and the commitment
SFT Immediate Past President Dr. Dwight Wolfe (right)presents the David Bartlett Award to Dr. Louis Archbald
7S U M M E R 2 0 0 5 N E W S L E T T E R
to make this dream a reality, I set off to Canada!This was a major step and challenge for me.Not only was it the first time I was away fromhome, but the environment (culturally andgeographically) was different, and as I later dis-covered, the 8 months of winter were totallydifferent than the corresponding 8 months inTrinidad!
Montreal was my first stop since I hadfriends there. I subsequently enrolled in SirGeorge Williams College to complete a bache-lor’s degree in biology to be competitive foradmission to the veterinary program at theOntario Veterinary College (OVC) in Guelph,which was under the administration of theUniversity of Toronto.The following year I wasadmitted to the 5-year DVM program at OVC.Almost all of the entering students had justcompleted high school, and it was also theirfirst time away from home.
My long-range goal was to become a foodanimal veterinarian.The program at OVC wasvery demanding and highly competitive.Therewas no room for error! In fact, only 42 of theinitial group (80) graduated in five years; somedid not! The areas of strength of the OVC pro-gram at that time were Small Animal Surgery,Radiology, Large Animal Medicine, andPathology. The program in AnimalReproduction was marginal. Prominent facultyat OVC included James Archibald (SAS), AlCawley (Radiology), Doug Blood (LAM),Kenneth Jubb, and Tom Holland (Pathology).These individuals had a pronounced influenceon my life at Guelph.They were not only men-tors, but were role models, the exceptionalqualities of whom I have strived to emulate.
However, as I perceived a serious deficit inmy knowledge, diagnostic and therapeutictechniques in animal reproduction, and since Iknew that this would be an important area ofmy future practice, I accepted another majorchallenge. During the summer between the 4th
and 5th years of the program, I read SteveRoberts’s textbook from cover to cover! Youmay call this impossible, but I call it labor-intensive! In addition, I read Ray Zemjanis’stextbook. However, it was not all work thatsummer. I was fortunate to meet a wonderfulyoung lady, who later became my fiancé’ as Icompleted the DVM degree at OVC. Withineight months of my return to Trinidad, wewere married in Jamaica, and one gestationlength later, we were blessed with the birth ofour first child, Michael!
My first job was on the island of Tobago. Iwas the only veterinarian on an island ofapproximately 60,000 people and 250,000 ani-mals (cattle,horses, swine sheep,goats,horses,dogs and cats). The economy of Tobago wascentered primarily on agriculture.There weremany ex-patriots from Great Britain who wereavid dog owners. Thoroughbred racing wasseasonal, and provided both entertainmentand a substantial economic boost. It was a gen-eral practice, and I had ample opportunities touse my limited knowledge of animal repro-duction.
Although general practice was stimulatingand rewarding, I felt the need to continue myeducation in the field of animal reproduction.Therefore, I began the process of searching forgraduate programs in animal reproduction.Tomy dismay, these programs were centered pri-marily in departments of Animal Science.However, to my delight, I discovered the pro-gram in Veterinary Obstetrics and Gynecologyat the University of Minnesota, St. Paul,Minnesota,directed by Dr.Raimunds Zemjanis.It was not very long after applying that RayZemjanis informed me of my acceptance to hisprogram. Although I knew very little aboutMinnesota and that graduate program, I felt asif I had a deep personal relationship with RayZemjanis.After all, his textbook occupied mostof my leisure time during the summerbetween my 4th and 5th years at OVC!
“Do the thing you fear and the death of fear is certain”.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson
Armed with a dream, a 1?-year-old son, anda 6-month pregnant wife, we embarked on thejourney to the land of 10,000 lakes! The stakeswere higher now,and so was the commitment.Three months after arriving in St. Paul(December), we were blessed with the arrivalof our first daughter, Cheryl, after a weekend-long blizzard!
To say that the “Minnesota experience”wasa “culture shock” is a grave understatement. Itwas totally different to all we had experi-enced. The winters were long, cold, challeng-ing, and seemed to get worse every year! The1? months of summer were hot and humid. Itbecame obvious that this was not Trinidad orTobago, nor was it Guelph, Ontario! It was anenvironment characterized by extremes oftemperature and hoards of mosquitoes in thesummer.
However, I knew the quality of the programand the outstanding education in animal repro-duction it would offer. It was there for me totake advantage of, and all I needed to do wasstudy! I literally spent every waking momenttrying to assimilate,and retain, the vast amountof information available to me. I was fortunateto have Sonja, who did everything else, and Iam forever grateful for this. Many times shewas both “Mom and Dad”.
The program was excellent, and RayZemjanis was a superb mentor. His enthusi-asm, knowledge and desire to help studentsaccomplish their goals were complementedby similar attributes of the faculty in hisdepartment (Richard Schultz and MelvynFahning). Other prominent faculty memberswho guided and mentored me were EdGraham (Reproductive Physiologist), AlvinWeber (Veterinary Anatomist), and HaroldKurtz (Veterinary Pathologist). With the helpof all these individuals, I obtained a vast knowl-edge of animal reproduction, reproductivephysiology, veterinary anatomy, and veterinarypathology.
Upon completion of my PhD program, Iwas fortunate to be offered a tenure-track posi-tion in the Department of VeterinaryObstetrics and Gynecology.My responsibilitiesincluded teaching, clinics, and research. I wasnow a full-fledged member of the “Minnesotafamily”.At that time, there were approximately30 dairy farms on a reproductive health pro-gram which were used for clinical teaching ofDVM students. During his weekly visit to thesefarms, Ray observed that some of these herdswere experiencing a high rate of early embry-onic death. Concurrently, occasional abortionswere observed, and the virus causing bovineviral diarrhea (BVDV) was considered a likelysuspect. However, this virus had not previous-ly been associated with early embryonic deathin cattle. Furthermore, many cows possessedhumoral antibodies, either from previousinfection and/or vaccination.
This was my first major research project asa faculty member, and with funding from theMinnesota Agricultural Experimental Station, Ibegan to investigate the role of BVDV as acausative agent of early embryonic death incattle. After approximately three years ofresearch, we concluded that BVDV is a causeof early embryonic death in cattle. However,this information was not readily acceptedsince most cows were vaccinated for this dis-ease, and were assumed to be protected.
We proposed that intrauterine entry of thisvirus (bull or infected semen) could “by-pass”this humoral antibody protection and causeearly embryonic death. Nevertheless, the ques-tion of whether it was a lack of fertilization orearly embryonic death, or the source of thevirus had to be resolved. Later research byHoward Whitmore suggested that experimen-tally-infected bulls could intermittently shedthis virus in semen.
Soon thereafter, research by other investi-gators identified the condition of BVDV per-sistently-infected cattle. Using PCR andimmunohistochemistry, BVDV was identifiedin the oviducts and uterus of these cattle.Therefore, there appeared to be both intrauter-ine and hematogenous routes of infection. It isinteresting to note that recent work fromEurope showed that post-insemination inter-estrual intervals of persistently-infected cattlewere longer, which suggested that it is proba-bly early embryonic death rather than fertiliza-tion failure. Ray Zemjanis was right again!
As the years elapsed, the Minnesota scenewas changing! Mel Fahning was leaving tooperate a commercial bovine embryo transferprogram in Wisconsin, and Dick Schultz wouldsoon follow him in this enterprise. In addition,Ray Zemjanis was planning a sabbatical leaveof absence. Everything seemed to be happen-ing at the same time.After much thought andanxiety, I decided to accept a position as anembryologist/reproductive physiologist in acommercial bovine embryo transfer enterprise
Continued
8 S U M M E R 2 0 0 5 N E W S L E T T E R
in Dixon,Tennessee.Armed with a dream, two children, a cat,
and a non-pregnant wife, we headed south tothe volunteer State of Tennessee! Our stay inNashville was short-lived. Although the posi-tion was lucrative, it lacked the opportunityfor me to continue my academic development.I was missing academia! The end of our stay inNashville was punctuated by a most excitingand rewarding event: the birth of our seconddaughter, Laurie. Little did we know that thiswould not be our last connection withNashville. Fourteen years later, we returned toNashville when Cheryl began her medical edu-cation at Vanderbilt University; ironically, wereturned to Nashville eight years later whenLaurie began her medical education atVanderbilt.
At the time we decided to leave Nashville,there were numerous new veterinary col-leges/schools being built, and many facultypositions were available. I chose LouisianaState University (LSU) because that Stateresembled much of the Caribbean in terms ofculture, climate and cuisine. Also, during myinterview I met Robert Godke, a reproductivephysiologist in the department of AnimalScience, and recognized the tremendousopportunity for collaborative research. He hadexcellent research facilities and many graduatestudents, most of whom were pre-veterinarystudents.
Armed with a dream, 3 children (includinga 9-week old baby), a cat, and a postpartumwife, we headed further south to “Bayou coun-try”. Our stay in Baton Rouge was very fulfill-ing, and we vowed that this would be our lastmove! I was promoted to Full Professor, anddeveloped a research and graduate program. Icontinued research on BVDV as a cause ofearly embryonic death, and we showed thatthis virus could infect preimplantation bovineembryos. In collaboration with Bob Godke andhis graduate students, I expanded my researchinterests to include canine embryo transfer,the effect of non-steroidal anti-inflammatorydrugs (PBZ) on reproduction in the mare, andnoninfectious bovine infertility.
Some interesting findings were: i) inducedcorpora lutea in the bitch have a reduced func-tional lifespan; ii) PBZ did not affect theestrous cycle of the mare; iii) there appearedto be a selective, and less severe luteolyticprocess in the CL of the cow at the time of par-turition compared to the end of the estrouscycle; this selective process seemed to involveprimarily small luteal cells, which were thefirst to undergo luteolysis.
A few years later, Gavin Richardson and BillBraun joined me at LSU, and we proceeded toexpand the program in theriogenology. Thiswas a most exciting time in my academiccareer. In addition, I was appointed Assistant
Department Head, with the express purposeof developing a graduate program in ourdepartment. This whetted my appetite foradministration.
Shortly thereafter, I was offered the posi-tion of Assistant Dean for Clinical Services &Chief of Staff of the teaching hospital at theCVM, University of Florida. I was also offeredthe position of Director of the College ofVeterinary Medicine’s Minority Program. So,armed with a dream, 3 children and a non-pregnant wife, we set out for the SunshineState of Florida to become a member of the“Florida family”. It is now my 21st year inFlorida, and I doubt we will move again, butwho knows? It has been a very productive lifeso far, although it began with the untimelydeath of our son, Michael. However, the dreamand the commitment were strengthened bytremendous family support.
But, it was not all administration. Everyadministrator was required to be scholarly.Thiswas not difficult for me since this theme hadbeen an integral part of my lifestyle.The ques-tion was time! Nevertheless, Rolf Larsen and Iobtained some internal funding and initiated aproject investigating the effect of PBZ on theconcentration of seminal prostaglandin F2·(PGF2·) in stallions. This showed that PBZreduced the concentration of seminal PGF2·.This is similar to what is seen in humans, andthere is some suggestion that it may be associ-ated with human infertility. So very enthusias-tically, we began to seek further funding, evenat the level of the NIH.We were not successful,and the interest began to wane.
Approximately four years later, the infra-structure of the College departments was reor-ganized, and I became a “born-again” facultymember of the Department of Large AnimalClinical Sciences (LACS). Around the sametime, the Theriogenology Service contractedwith a large (3,000 milking cows) dairy herdto initiate a herd health program, and I partici-pated in the reproduction component of thisprogram. It was almost like the days inMinnesota, except there were more cows!
Over the next 13 years, several researchprojects in bovine reproductive physiologywere conducted in this dairy herd. Theseresults provided thesis/dissertation informa-tion for numerous graduate students, and forover 30 refereed publications. All theTheriogenology Residents during this periodof time participated in this program, and allwere co-authors on these publications.
“A mind once stretched by a new idea never returns to its original dimensions.”
-forgotten source
I still continue to conduct the CVM’s
Minority Program (now called MulticulturalAffairs Program),and participate in similar pro-grams at the national, local, and university lev-els. I have chaired the national committee ofMulticultural Affairs in the Association ofAmerican Veterinary Medical Colleges(AAVMC), and I have received the 7th IversonBell Award from the AAVMC in recognition ofmy distinguished leadership and significantcontribution to the advancement of minoritiesin veterinary medicine. Presently, I serve asAssociate Chair and Graduate Coordinator forour departmental graduate program. A recentmilestone was the holding of our first researchemphasis day which showcased our graduatestudents and their mentors, and providedinvaluable exposure to our graduate program.
The dream continues, although much of ithas become reality. Indeed, it has been a mix-ture (“a potpourri”) saturated with commit-ment, passion, focus, and a desire for excel-lence. I once read that “opportunity is amatter of choice, not a matter of chance”.Only time will tell if I made the right choice.
Lagniappe (“something additional”…..)I wish to begin with a brief discussion of a
topic which, in my opinion, presents a majorchallenge for both the ACT and the entire pro-fession of veterinary medicine. This concernsthe pool of students who will be applying foradmission to our veterinary colleges/schoolsin the future.The importance of this becomesobvious when one realizes that this pool ofstudents represents our future pool ofResidents for our training programs.
Recent information shows that within thenext decade, the demographics of graduatinghigh school students will be entirely differentfrom the present students. They will comefrom diverse backgrounds with diverse cul-tures.They will have different learning styles,and an unparalleled sense of cultural compe-tency and plurism.They will represent a majorshift in ethnicity and race, will be extremelycomputer-literate, will probably have takencourses by distance learning during theirundergraduate program, and will have had dif-ferent experiences in their life.
Some, or even most, of these students willhave minimal experience with animals(except dogs, cats; maybe?), since animals maynot have enjoyed any importance in their cul-tures.They will have a decided view on animalwelfare, and will have high expectations fromthe veterinary profession. In addition, they willhave many different options to pursue a careerin the health-related professions.
Another variable in this equation is therecently proposed legislative bill which willreward veterinary colleges/schools for admit-ting students who will eventually enter publicpractice (academia/research, food safety, epi-
9S U M M E R 2 0 0 5 N E W S L E T T E R
demiology, governmental agencies {CDC,USDA, Health Departments}, pursue the MPHdegree,and be involved in programs to combatbioterrorism, agro-terrorism, and (re)emerginginfectious diseases. Therefore, not only willthey be “different”, but they will enter veteri-nary college/school very focused, and withpre-determined goals.
What does this mean to us? It means thatwe will have to adjust; we will have to change!We will have to be sensitive to this issue,change our attitudes,even change the ways weoperate! We have to advertise, promote our-selves, and let it be known that what we do isof utmost value to society. Simply changingour name and what we call ourselves could bean ineffective solution. “A rose by any othername is still a rose”. If we do not change,these students will seek and enter otherhealth-related professions. The net effect isobvious. What will the overall effect on ourmembership in both the SFT and ACT?
My next remarks concern our ResidencyPrograms. In my opinion, research (scholar-ly or scientific investigation or inquiry)and graduate education (the knowledge orskill obtained or developed by a learningprocess) should be major components of ourResidency programs. I realize that there will belimitations to the level to which these facetscan be incorporated in our programs,but I alsorealize that the programs in which these aremajor facets will probably attract our veteri-nary graduates. Presently, many programs offerthe opportunity for Residents to spend time inspecialty practices in their area of interest.Would it not be equally beneficial for ourResidents to spend time in prominent researchlaboratories? I think that this simple approachcould provide an excellent education in
research. We should expect our Residents togenerate new knowledge, not just be users ofthe old.After all, they are our future!
“Read an hour every day in your chosen field. This works out to about
one book per week, 50 books per year,and will guarantee your success”.
-Brian Tracy
Over the years, we have debated the need forspecies certification. As I look around thecountry, it is evident that few of our ResidencyPrograms encompass theriogenology of alldomestic animals. In many instances, they arespecies-specific. In fact, many job opportuni-ties seem to be species-specific. Maybe, thetime has come for species certification.Whilethere are many approaches to its implementa-tion,one simple way would be to have an addi-tional comprehensive examination for eachspecies. This examination could be adminis-tered sometime after the present generalexamination. Obviously, only candidates whosuccessfully completed the general examina-tion would be eligible to sit the species-specif-ic examination.There are many precedents inother disciplines which can serve as a tem-plate for theriogenology.
“You can never solve a problem with the same kind of thinking
that created the problem in the first place”.
-Albert Einstein
As I conclude, I want to thank all my col-leagues, especially those who nominated mefor this award. I applaud their efforts and theconvincing manner with which they present-
ed me to the selection committee.I thank my parents,who laid the foundation
for my every undertaking.I thank Sonja;my wife,beloved companion,
friend, advisor, and “sounding board” for thepast 41 years. She gave me the opportunity tocreate and nurture three wonderful children(Michael, Cheryl and Laurie). She remained athome to care for the family while I spent longhours completing my graduate program. Shewas, and is, always there for us. Her unselfishnature, superb thinking skills and extremepatience have really made our lives complete.I could go on for hours on this topic!!
I thank Raimunds (Ray) Zemjanis,who gaveme the opportunity to become a member ofthe “Minnesota family”. His guidance and men-torship have been influential contributors tomy academic and professional careers. Hedeveloped in me a sense of academic inde-pendence, academic inquiry and critical think-ing: attributes which were integral compo-nents of his own character. Over the years Ihave tried to emulate his professional integrity,honesty, his meticulousness for details, and hisprofound base of knowledge. Have I succeed-ed? I think being here today to receive thismost prestigious award could be interpretedas some success in this regard. I wish he werehere today to be part of this auspicious occa-sion. I know the joy, satisfaction, and sense ofaccomplishment he would feel on this occa-sion.
Finally, I want to thank the Good Lord, fornot only giving me the talent, but the oppor-tunity and the wisdom to use my talent wiselyto make a contribution to veterinary medicineand to society. God bless!!
CALL FOR ARTICLES/STORIES FROM STUDENTS
LET US HEAR FROM YOU!
If you have news from your SFT Student Chapter, or College of
Veterinary Medicine, that you would like to share with SFT mem-
AMERICAN COLLEGE OF THERIOGENOLOGISTS2005-2006 OFFICERS & BOARD OF DIRECTORSO F F I C E R S
Dr. Regina TurnerUniversity of PennsylvaniaNew Bolton Center382 West Street RoadKennett Sq, PA 19348-1692Phone: 610/925-6227Fax: 610/925-8121Email: [email protected]
Dr. Dirk VanderwallUniversity of Idaho, CVMP.O. Box 442201Moscow, ID 83844-2201Phone: 208/885-7414Fax: 208/885-8937Email: [email protected]
Dr. Particia SertichUniversity of PennsylvaniaNew Bolton Center382 West Street RoadKennett Sq, PA 19348Phone: 610/925-6229Fax: 610/925-8121Email: [email protected]
EEXXEECCUUTTIIVVEE DDIIRREECCTTOORRDr. Charles FranzAmerican College of TheriogenologistsP.O. Box 3065Montgomery, AL 36109Phone: 334/395-4666Fax: 334/270-3399Email: [email protected]
D I R E C T O R S
In Memorium DR. RICHARD A. MCFEELYACT Diplomate
On March 26, 2005, the School lost adear friend and colleague, RichardA. McFeely, V’61, M. Med. Sci.
(Ob/Gyn) to complications following knee-replacement surgery.
Dick McFeely came to the School as a vet-eran of the U.S. Marine Corps, a distinction inwhich he took great pride for the rest of hislife. He graduated in 1961 and, after a briefstint in private practice, was accepted as apost-doctoral fellow in the School’s KingRanch Laboratory of ReproductivePhysiology, then located in Center CityPhiladelphia.This was followed by a Mastersdegree program in obstetrics and gynecologyat the University’s Graduate School ofMedicine.Though Dick was the only veteri-narian in the Ob/Gyn program (the otherswere all physicians), he ranked first in hisclass at the end of the course of study in1967.
In 1966, Dick joined the faculty as assis-tant professor of clinical reproduction,became chief of the Section of Reproductionat New Bolton Center in 1968, and was pro-moted to professor of reproduction in 1975.
Under Dick’s leadership, the Section ofReproduction at NBC grew to great distinc-tion and acquired worldwide recognition. Hisresearch interest was in cytogenetics.Workingwith Dr. Doug Hare, professor of anatomy, hemade many important discoveries involvingchromosomal disorders in domestic animals.These findings were recorded in more than30 publications, many of which are the mostprestigious journals of science.
Dick McFeely was known as an outstand-ing teacher with a great interest in studentaffairs. He was uniformly loved by studentsfor his humor and encouragement; he wasrecognized for this in 1977 when he wasawarded the Norden Award for DistinguishedTeaching. Dick was also active in thePennsylvania Veterinary Medical Association(PVMA) and was named “Veterinarian of theYear” in 1977. He went on to become presi-dent of the PVMA in 1983.
From 1976 to 1987, Dick served as associ-ate dean for New Bolton Center. His gener-ous, optimistic, and jovial spirit enabled Dickto fill this role eminently, and New BoltonCenter became a better place as a result of
his qualities ofleadership.Thesecollegial qualitiespersist and areDick’s most impor-tant legacy at theSchool. He isrememberedeverywhere withgreat fondness,especially amongthe faculty andstaff at New BoltonCenter.
In 1995, Dick retired and moved toChestertown, Md., where he became execu-tive director of the Chester Valley CommunityMediation Service. He is survived by his wife,Lynne; three children, Karen M.Weaver,Timothy McFeely, and Richard McFeely Jr.;and five grandchildren.
Reprinted with the permission of theUniversity of Pennsylvania School ofVeterinary Medicine.
PPRREESSIIDDEENNTTDr. John SteinerHagyard-Davidson-McGee and Assoc.4250 Iron Works PikeLexington, KY 40511Phone: 859/255-8741Fax: 859/253-0196Email: [email protected]
PPRREESSIIDDEENNTT--EELLEECCTTDr. Margaret Root KustritzUniversity of Minnesota, CVM1352 Boyd Avenue, C339 VTHSt. Paul, MN 55108Phone: 612/624-7290Fax: 612/624-0751Email: [email protected]
PPAASSTT PPRREESSIIDDEENNTTDr. Margo MacphersonUniversity of Florida, CVMDepartment of Large Animal Clinical ScienceBox 100136Gainesville, FL 32610Phone: 352/392-4700 ext. 4000Fax: 352/392-8289Email: [email protected]
SSEECCRREETTAARRYYDr. Craig SmithAmerican Vet. Med. Assoc.Ste.1001931 N. Meacham RoadSchaumberg, IL 60173-4360Phone: 847/925-8070 ext. 6764Fax: 847/925-9328Email: [email protected]
TTRREEAASSUURREERRDr. Travis MeredithVeterinary Reproduction Spec.2218 N. Main StreetTalboro, NC 27886Phone: 858/435-0315Fax: 858/630-3615Email: [email protected]
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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE...
Ihave just recently returned from theannual conference of the Society forTheriogenology in Charleston, South
Carolina which again was a tremendoussuccess! The topics, symposia, and theever-enlarging vendor section were atribute to the Society and OrganizingCommittee. It is always a pleasure toattend this meeting, not only for the sci-entific information, but for the cama-raderie of our fellow members.
The ACT Certification Exam was onceagain held just prior to the start of theSFT Annual Conference.Twenty-five can-didates sat for the examination with 16successfully passing the exam.We owe agreat deal of gratitude to theExamination Committee for their tirelessefforts in not only putting together theexamination, but for administering it andgrading it! This is a tremendous effort ontheir part that requires a great deal oftime.A job well done!
Dr. Dirk Vanderwall was honored asTheriogenologist of the Year for 2005. Itwas particularly gratifying to me to haveDirk receive this prestigious award sinceI have known Dirk from the time hegraduated from veterinary college(Cornell 1986) and have interacted withhim in the ensuing years. His presenta-tion at the ceremony honoring him cen-tered on his life and what brought himto this point in time. It was a very inter-esting and moving experience and wecongratulate Dirk again.
I would also like to recognize theExecutive Board of the ACT for the workthey have done under the leadership ofour Immediate Past President MargoMacpherson.The Board works tirelesslyduring the year addressing a host ofissues.The glue that keeps it all togetheris Dr. Charles Franz the ExecutiveDirector of the ACT and his staff.
The ACT is alive and well.The totalmembership is 372 (20 honorary, 51emeritus and 301 active members).Wemust now add the 16 successful newdiplomates!
The ACT Board held its annual sum-mer meeting in Charleston for two daysprior to the SFT Annual Conference. Incontinuing our efforts of cooperationwith the European College of AnimalReproduction (ECAR), Dr. Laszlo Soltifrom the University of Vienna joined theBoard and reported on the activities ofECAR.They face the same trials andtribulations as we do and it is enlighten-ing to hear of the way they handle manyof the same issues that we face.Continuing this interaction with ECAR, Ihave been invited and will attend theirBoard meeting in November in Belgium.
One of the agenda items discussed atthe ACT Board meeting was the trainingopportunities for residents and candi-dates for the ACT Board Examination.This list is offered on the ACT websiteunder the heading of “Becoming aDiplomate”.The purpose of this list is tobroaden or extend additional trainingopportunities that may not be availableat the candidates’ institution. PastPresident Doug Freeman and DirectorPat Sertich are heading up this project. Ifany of you have additional trainingopportunities and are willing to partici-pate, please contact the ACT office, Dougor Pat.
The Board continues to work onimplementing objectives of our strategicplan as outlined at the January 2005Board meeting. One item that I believewas a very positive move was a recep-tion hosted by the ACT Board andExamination Committee for the candi-dates that took the ACT BoardExamination.The reception was held forall candidates the evening of the last dayof the exam.The candidates had theopportunity to meet and mingle with theBoard and Examination Committee in asocial atmosphere which I think it was avery powerful public relations tool forthe College.
The speakers’ bureau list has beenupdated and is posted on the ACT web-site.The list is subdivided into species
which makes itmuch easier tofind appropriatespeakers on a vari-ety of topics.
One very hugeundertaking thatwas borne of theACT strategic planwas the consideration of a name changefor the College.This was discussed in the2005 Summer Issue of the ACT newslet-ter.The SFT has hired Stewart andAssociates of Louisville, Kentucky tostudy the “branding” of the SFT.The SFTwill generously provide us with the find-ings from this study which will help usin tackling this very important issue.
I would like to take this opportunityto thank you for the privilege of servingas your President for the coming year. Ihave very big shoes to fill from the per-sons who have gone before.The Collegeshould be proud of the dedication andefforts of the Board of Directors.ThisCollege is your college and I personallyinvite you to get involved! Please feelfree to contact me, any of the BoardMembers, or Dr. Charles Franz ourExecutive Director, with your concerns,opinions or ideas.We need to hear fromyou so that we can more effectively leadthe ACT into the future. Don’t be shy! Wehave a host of issues before us and yourguidance and ideas are not only wel-come, but needed. I can be reached [email protected] and am waiting to hearfrom you.
John V. Steiner, DVM, DACTPresident
DR. JOHN STEINER
ACT PRESIDENT
ACTD I P L O M A T E S
13S U M M E R 2 0 0 5 N E W S L E T T E R
Dr. Dirk Vanderwall named Theriogenologist of the Year for 2005
Dr. Dirk Vanderwall received theprestigious 2005Theriogenologist of the Year
award at the SFT/ACT AnnualConvention in Charleston, SouthCarolina. The award, presented by FortDodge Animal Health and the AmericanCollege of Theriogenologists, includes aplaque and honorarium. Dr.Vanderwall,of Moscow, Idaho, received the awardfor expertise in clinical theriogenology.
Upon receiving his DVM in 1986from Cornell, Dr.Vanderwall workedwith Dr.Wendall Cooper at Lana LobellFarm of New York.At the time, this farm
was one of the three largest Standard-bred farms in the world.As a University of Idaho Ph.D. student, Dr.Vanderwall instruct-ed veterinary students at Washington State University and
taught the laboratory for a University ofIdaho undergraduate physiology course.After receiving his Idaho Ph.D., Dr.Vanderwall completed a post doc at theUniversity of Kentucky.The next fiveyears he spent as a key member of theColorado State University’s commercialembryo transfer program. Dr.Vanderwall became a Diplomate of theAmerican College of Theriogenologistsin 1993. Dr.Vanderwall is best knownfor his recent work in the cloning ofequids at the University of Idaho. Theteam that he organized birthed theworld’s first equine clone on May 4,2003.
Congratulations to Dr. Dirk Vanderwall as the seventh recipi-ent of Theriogenologist of the Year.
ACT Past President Dr. MargoMacpherson (left)
presents the Theriogenologistof the Year Award toDr. Dirk Vanderwall.
Dr. Gordon Woods (right)introduces his associate Dr. Dirk Vanderwall.
Sixteen new diplomates have been welcomed by the American Collegeof Theriogenologists following successful completion of the certifica-tion examination that was held in Charleston, South Carolina, in con-junction with the Society for Theriogenology annual meeting in August.
The newest board-certified diplomats in the ACT are Drs. Misty Abrams,Auburn University,AL;Abdul Aljarah, Baton Rouge, LA; Henry Annandale,Onderstepoort, South Africa; Chris Berezowski, Meath Park, Canada; Etta AganBradecamp,Warrenton,VA; Stan Bychawski, Cochran, Canada;Wynne Collins,Front Royal,VA; Ben Espy, San Antonio,TX; Maria Soledad Ferrer, Baton Rouge,LA; David Hidalgo,Amory, MS; Natalia Krekeler, Ithaca, NY; Soren Rodning,Auburn University,AL; Kelly Rosenkrans, Clinton, IL; Elizabeth Scholtz,Woodland, CA; Dickie (Joey) Vest, Magnolia,TX; Myrthe Wessel,The Netherlands.
(From left to right) Marie Ferrer, Misty Abrams, Abdul Aljarrah, Etta Agan Bradecamp,David Hidalgo and Soren Rodning
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T H E R I O G E N O L O G I S T O F T H E Y E A R A W A R D
CALL FOR NOMINATIONSThe American College of Theriogenologists is seeking nominations for“Theriogenologist of the Year,” an award developed to recognized out-standing achievement in the field of reproductive research and clinical the-riogenology. The award is accompanied by a plaque and monetary honorar-ium ($1500). Selection is based on the merit of scholarly and/or profession-al endeavors and the significance of contributions to the veterinary commu-nity, as described in materials submitted by nominators and candidates.
Candidates must be ACT Diplomates in good standing and must be cur-rently engaged in clinical animal reproduction. Candidates’ scientific/pro-fessional achievements must be nationally recognized through books, jour-nals, meetings, etc. Nominations may only be made by Diplomates of ACTor members of the Society for Theriogenology.
The ACT Executive Board encourages the nomination of ACT members inprivate practice, as well as Diplomates in academia and industry. Becauseof the tremendous diversity of professional activities among the membersof ACT, the award will alternate annually between candidates with expert-
ise in basic reproductive science (odd-numbered years) and candidateswith expertise in clinical animal reproduction (even-numbered years).
Nominations, including documentation outlined in the Award NominationForm, will be accepted until December 15, 2005. Nominators must alsoprocure letters of recommendation from two of the candidate’s peers andsubmit them to the ACT office by December 15.
After December 15, candidates will be contacted for: (1) a current curricu-lum vitae; and (2) two or three manuscripts and/or documents validatingtheir current scholarly activity. Candidates must have submitted all materi-als to the ACT office by January 15, 2006.
The Executive Board will review the candidates’ qualifications and selectthe recipient. Selection of the recipient and concurrent notification will bemade no later than 30 days prior to the ACT/SFT Annual Conference. TheAward will be presented at the SFT/ACT annual conference in August, 2006.
By December 15, 2005: Please submit this form with a letter describing in detail the candidate’s contributions; include current research and/or clinical activity,lists of refereed articles, books and presentations at national meetings, and any other relevant information regarding the candidate’s professionalism and the sig-nificance of his or her expertise to our profession. Provide two letters of recommendation from the candidate’s peers. Your nominee will not be considered if let-ters are not received by this deadline.Candidate’s Name:
Candidate’s Business Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________
Send form and supporting documentation to: American College of TheriogenologistsAttn: Theriogenologist of the Year AwardP.O. Box 3065, Montgomery, AL 36109334-395-4666 • 334-270-3399 (fax)
15S U M M E R 2 0 0 5 N E W S L E T T E R
Delegate Report to the SFTUpdate on Activities & Resolutions of the AVMA HOUSE OF DELEGATES: Report of the SFT Delegate
Minneapolis, Minnesota, July 14-15, 2005
I. For the first time, the list of volunteer (but nonetheless competitive) posi-tions within the AVMA legislative structure has been made available as ofthe July 2005 HOD session.This includes AVMA Committees, Boards, andCouncils for 2006. In the ongoing effort to increase representation of SFTmembers in policy decisions and activities (influence) of the AVMA at theNational level, I would ask you to visit the table identifying the positionsposted on the SFT website. Some positions require a specific employmentdesignation for eligibility are defined to the right of each entity.The elec-tions and/or appointments will be made during the 2006 HOD sessions.Term of service begins immediately thereafter. Please visit the SFT websiteand consider serving the SFT & AVMA on the national level.Please note:Candidates for COMMITTEES: there is great benefit in contacting theappropriate District chairperson and sending him/her a letter in supportof that person. Put the nominees information in writing, then follow-upwith an additional personal contact.Whoever is speaking on behalf ofthose nominees for committee assignments, needs to have personal/addi-tional information to speak on behalf of the nominee.The EB and Districtchairpersons have enormous agenda books to cover in an abbreviatedtimeframe when they meet.Anything that can be done to highlight a can-didate can easily make the difference.Candidates for COUNCILS need to begin their preparations well inadvance of the AVMA meeting (July 2006). Expenses incurred are the can-didates (not the SFT or other HOD entity [State or Allied Organization].Abrief (tri-fold or 1/3 sheet) presentation of one’s qualifications [campaignmaterials] to notify State & Allied Organizations, and an appearance beforethe HOD to make a brief statement about your interest & qualifications inserving on that entity.The HOD sessions are held before the annual con-ference. I can assist any SFT member interested in a particular positionwith dates, expectations, timeframes, etc.
II. There is a new guide published by the AVMA titled “Volunteering in theAVMA,A Guide to AVMA Volunteer Leadership.” If you’re interested in pur-suing further service to your profession on the national level, I wouldencourage you to consider one of these avenues to expand your horizonsand strengthen veterinary medicine and the influence of theriogenology.
III. AVMA’s Legislative Agenda for the 109th Congress:The AVMA’s Government Relations Division (GRD) advocates theAssociation’s policies and positions on federal legislative and regulatoryissues that influence animal and human health and advance the vet-erinary medical profession.A. A proven, effective sequence that leads veterinary medicine in
bringing our agenda to the forefront:• The Executive Board (EB) of the AVMA sets the agenda.• The agenda is the result of work percolating upward through the AVMA
governance system.• The Legislative Advisory Committee (LAC) assists the EB in formulating
AVMA policies & positions on federal legislative and regulatory issues.• The GRD staff works cooperatively with AVMA’s Schaumburg staff to
develop and implement strategy to advance the AVMA federal legislativeagenda.
B. Actively pursuing passage: Federal Funding for the National Veterinary Medical Service Act (P.L.108-161)Small Business Health Fairness Act (H.R. 525/S. 406)The Veterinary Workforce Expansion Act (S.914/H.R. 2206)Humane Methods of Slaughter Act AmendmentFunding for establishment of an Office of Minor Use & MinorSpecies in FDA/CVMForeign Animal Disease LaboratoryFunding for Animal Health ProtectionProactive Education on Compounding
C. Actively pursuing defeat:The American Horse Slaughter Prevention Act
(H.R. 503)
D. SupportingDevelopment of legislation that effectively deals with the welfare issuesassociated with puppy millsIncrease funding for the animal arm of the National AntimicrobialResistance Monitoring System (NARMS)Increase funding for the Food Animal Residue Avoidance Databank(FARAD)Funding for USDA’s National Animal Identification System (NAIS)
Establishment of a USDA VeterinaryBiologic Advisory Committee (VBAC)Formation of a National Institute for Foodand Agriculture (NIFA)National Food and Agriculture Science Actof 2005 (S.767/H.R.1563)Captive Primate Safety Act (H.R.1329)Special Pays for Board CertifiedVeterinarians in Federal GovernmentEquity for our Nation’s Self-Employment Actof 2005 (S.663)
E. Non-Support for:The Puppy Protection Act if the 108th Congress version is reintroducedin the 109th CongressPreservation of Antibiotics for Medical Treatment Act of 2005(S.742/H.R.2562)Restoring the Prohibition on the Commercial Sale of Wild Free-RoamingHorses & Burros (S.576/H.R.297)
F. Requesting More InformationAntifreeze Safety ActSpecial Pay for Uniformed Services Veterinarians
IV. Contact Congress Instantly at the New AVMA Online GovernmentAction Center using the online tool, called Capwiz. • Begin at www.avma.org• Scroll down to the left side of the page until you see the Government
Relations heading.• Click on the second link, titled Government Action Center• This brings up the main page for the Capwiz site, featuring the major
legislation, as approved by the AVMA EB.• Click on any one of the issues and you will be connected to the back-
ground page for that issue: includes goals,AVMA’s position, current leg-islative status, and most importantly, the ability to contact yourMembers of Congress on the issue.
• To contact your Senators &/or Representative, simply type in your resi-dential zip code in the space provided.
• The next page takes you to a prewritten E-Mail or letter (you canchoose), ready to be sent to your legislators, alerting them of AVMA’sposition on the issue and how it affects you as a member of the profes-sion or community.
• To complete the message, simply fill our your personal contact informa-tion at the bottom of the page.
• If you have additional questions on the new site or AVMA’s grassrootsactivities, please feel free to contact Tim Foltyn,AVMA/PAC/ GrassrootsCoordinator at [email protected] or (800) 321-1473, ext. 3206.
V. Resolutions submitted for consideration in July 2005:Resolution 1: Position Statement on force-feeding birds to produce foiegras (Defeated by the HOD)Resolution 2: Holding the VLC/HOD Informational Assembly in theSchaumburg, IL area. (Defeated by the HOD)Resolution 3: Production of Foie Gras (Defeated by the HOD) Resolution 4: National Animal Microchip Standard (Passed by the HOD)Resolution 5: Preservation of the American Veterinary Medical Foundation[resolution to suspend promotion of the AVMF] (Defeated)
For your interest, theriogenology’s representation in the HOD extends beyondDr. Rawson (SFT alternate Delegate) and myself.While their allegiance mustfirst be to their State or the Allied Group they represent, SFT members, i.e. rep-resentatives with knowledge of theriogenology in the HOD [either Delegate oralternate Delegate] are present in service to Ohio,Virginia,AAEP,AABP, etc.Speak to your representatives on all fronts regarding issues affecting you or thepractice of theriogenology. Let us know how we can better serve you.
Thank you for the opportunity to represent the Society for Theriogenology inthe HOD. If you have any questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to con-tact me.
Sincerely,Dr. Carla L. CarletonDelegate, SFT3260 Hulett Road, Mason, MI 48854-9417 USA517-353-9710 LA Office; 517-353-3267 Office; 517-355-2191 Fax
DR. CARLA CARLETON
SFT DELEGATE
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BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2005-2006OFFICERSPPrreessiiddeennttDr. Walter ZentHagyard-Davidson-McGee 4250 Iron Works Pike Lexington, KY 40511-8412Phone: 859/255-8741Fax: 859/253-0196Email: [email protected](term expires 2006)
PPrreessiiddeenntt--EElleeccttDr. Peter ChenowethSchool of Agricultural & Vet Sci. Charles Sturt University Locked Bag 588 Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678 Australia Phone: 02 6933 2652 Email: [email protected] (term expires 2006)
VViiccee--PPrreessiiddeennttDr. Patrick HearnHearn Veterinary Services713558 RR 1Orangeville, ON L9W 2Y8CanadaPhone: 519/943-1153Email: [email protected] (term expires 2006)
Dr. Ana Adams Hamby Road Animal Hospital 3785 Hamby Road Alpharetta, GA 30004Phone: 770/521-1314Fax: 770/521-1349Email: [email protected](term expires 2006)
Dr. Todd Anderson Panhandle Veterinary Service 1430 Brickyard Road Chipley, FL 32428 Phone: 850/638-4857 Fax: 850/638-0353 Email: [email protected] (term expires 2008)
Dr. James Brendemuehl1008 West Hazelwood Dr.Urbana, IL 61802Phone: 217/244-0594Fax: 217/333-7126Email: [email protected](term expires 2006)
Dr. Tamara Dobbie3181 Holley RdGlen Rock, PA 17327Phone: 717/227-0683Email: [email protected](term expires 2007)
Dr. Richard HopperMS State Univ CVMDept of Pathobiology/Pop MedBox 6100Mississippi State, MS 39762Phone: 662/325-2194Fax: 662/325-1027Email: [email protected](term expires 2007)
Dr. Cheryl LopateReproductive Revolutions, Inc.1000 South Springbrook Road#55Newberg, OR 97132Phone: 503/537-1123Fax: 503/554-9961Email: [email protected](term expires 2008)
Dr. Scott PretzerAbilene Animal Hospital, PA.320 NE 14th StreetAbilene, KS 67410Phone: 785/263-2301Fax: 785/263-2925Email: [email protected](term expires 2007)
Dr. Cliff ShipleyUniversity of Illinois2190 Homer Lake RoadSt. Joseph, IL 61873-8769Phone: 217/333-2000Fax: 217/333-7126Email: [email protected](term expires 2008)
Dr. Gary WarnerElgin Veterinary HospitalP.O. Box 629Elgin, TX 78621Phone: 512/285-3375Fax: 512/285-3398Email: [email protected](term expires 2006)
EEddiittoorrDr. Herris MaxwellAuburn University, CVMDept. of Clinical SciencesAuburn University, AL 36849-5540Phone: 334/321-7995Fax: 334/844-6715Email: [email protected](appointed position)
MMaannaaggeemmeenntt OOffffiicceeDr. Charles Franz, Executive DirectorP.O. Box 3007Montgomery, AL 36109Phone: 334/395-4666Fax: 334/270-3399Email: [email protected]
