The American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV) held its 55th annual meeting from February 24-27, 2024, in Nashville, Tennessee, under the banner “Leading AASV into the Future.” This pivotal event drew over a thousand professionals from the swine veterinary community, including practitioners, students, and industry leaders, all gathered to share insights and foster advancements in swine health.
Educational Sessions and Expert Insights
The conference agenda was robust, featuring 10 pre-conference seminars, and various sessions including two general sessions, three breakout sessions, a research session, and sessions led by industry partners. Each session was designed to address critical areas such as diagnostic data, disease preparedness, swine business economics, pig livability, and nutritional strategies. Particularly noteworthy were the discussions on disease eradication, with innovative approaches likened to a “zombie apocalypse” for biosecurity and disease control.
Distinguished Speakers and Memorial Lectures
Highlighting the event were the memorial lectures delivered by distinguished speakers. Dr. Joel Nerem of Pipestone captivated attendees with the Howard Dunne Memorial Lecture, titled “Swine Veterinarians: Who Are We and Where Are We Going?” providing a reflective look at the profession’s evolution and future direction. Following him, Dr. Chris Rademacher, from Iowa State University, delivered the Alex Hogg Memorial Lecture discussing past, present, and future challenges of the swine veterinary profession, offering both historical context and forward-thinking perspectives.
Awards and Recognition
The meeting also served as a platform to honor those who have made significant contributions to the field. The “Swine Practitioner of the Year” award was bestowed on Dr. Matt Allerson, recognized for his proficiency in veterinary service at Holden Farms. Meanwhile, Dr. Dylan Lape was named “Young Swine Veterinarian of the Year” for his outstanding service within five years of graduation, and Dr. Nathan Winkelman received the “Meritorious Service Award” for his long-standing dedication to the AASV.
Research and Scholarship Contributions
The AASV Foundation also played a vital role at the meeting, awarding over $100,000 towards research proposals aimed at enhancing swine health and management. Additionally, $25,000 in scholarships were distributed to 15 veterinary students, highlighting the AASV’s commitment to education and the next generation of swine veterinarians.
Conclusion
The 55th annual AASV meeting not only showcased the latest in swine health and veterinary science but also reinforced the community’s commitment to continuous learning and improvement. The discussions and insights from the meeting are set to influence swine health strategies and practices well into the future, ensuring the industry remains at the cutting edge of veterinary science.
For those interested in more detailed insights from the event, further information is available on the AASV’s official website.
