Virginia Veterinary Medical Association Meeting – February 22-24, 2024

Virginia VMA Conference 2024: Highlights and Award Recipients

The Virginia Veterinary Medical Association (VVMA) hosted its highly anticipated Virginia Veterinary Conference from February 22-24, 2024, in Roanoke, Virginia. This annual event brings together veterinarians from across the state to engage in professional development, networking, and recognition of outstanding contributions to veterinary medicine.

Awards and Recognitions

Paul F. Landis Veterinarian of the Year

Dr. Martin Betts (Ohio State ’81) of Charlottesville was honored as the Veterinarian of the Year. As a partner at Charlottesville Veterinary Clinic, Dr. Betts is committed to animal welfare, volunteering at local spay/neuter and vaccination clinics. His leadership roles include past presidency of the VVMA and board memberships with the Service Dogs of Virginia and the Charlottesville Albemarle SPCA.

Mentor of the Year

Dr. Sherrie Clark (Virginia-Maryland ’96) from Blacksburg received the Mentor of the Year award. Dr. Clark, a diplomate of the American College of Theriogenology, is a professor and associate department head of large animal clinical sciences at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, where she has significantly influenced the next generation of veterinarians.

Veterinary Service Award

Dr. Cassie Wagner (Virginia-Maryland ’13) of Richmond was recognized with the Veterinary Service Award. In her role as student services representative with the AVMA Trust, Dr. Wagner has demonstrated a strong commitment to veterinary education and alumni relations, previously serving as the director of alumni relations at her alma mater.

Distinguished Virginia Veterinarian

Dr. Melinda McCall (Virginia-Maryland ’04) of Louisa earned the title of Distinguished Virginia Veterinarian. Dr. McCall, a large animal veterinarian and owner of Louisa Veterinary Service, dedicates her time to local vaccination clinics through the Louisa Community Animal Response Team and Louisa Police Department. She also contributes to the community as a board member of the Louisa County Agricultural Fair and is a past president of the VVMA.

Early Career Leadership Award

Dr. Jamie Stewart (Illinois ’13) from Blacksburg was awarded the Early Career Leadership Award. As an assistant professor of production management medicine at the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Stewart serves on the VVMA board of directors as an at-large director and has been an active member of the Society for Theriogenology’s Scientific Abstract Committee.