The recent Oregon Veterinary Conference hosted by the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association (OVMA) took place from March 1 to 3 in the vibrant city of Corvallis. Here’s a glimpse into the event highlights:
Awards
Meritorious Service Award: Dr. Thomas Keck
Dr. Thomas Keck, a distinguished graduate of Washington State (’82), was honored with the Meritorious Service Award. As a seasoned mixed animal veterinarian and former owner of the Dallas Animal Clinic, Dr. Keck’s contributions extend far beyond his clinic. He has served in various leadership roles within the OVMA, including as president and district director. Additionally, Dr. Keck’s eight-year tenure on the Oregon Veterinary Medical Examining Board, including a year as chair, reflects his commitment to upholding veterinary standards.
Veterinary Service Award: Helen Beaman
Helen Beaman, a cognitive behavioral therapist based in Newport, received the Veterinary Service Award for her innovative training modules designed to support veterinary professionals. Her modules cover essential topics such as managing anxiety, depression, and stress, along with practical cognitive behavioral therapy techniques. Beaman’s emphasis on mental health and boundary setting underscores the crucial role of self-care in veterinary practice.
President’s Awards: Dr. Michael Huber
Dr. Michael Huber, a distinguished graduate of California-Davis (’80), was recognized with the President’s Award for his outstanding contributions to veterinary education and clinical practice. As a professor at Oregon State University Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine and a clinician at the Lois Bates Acheson Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Dr. Huber embodies excellence in both academia and clinical care. His resilience and adaptability during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic exemplify the spirit of the award.
Business Highlights
The conference also delved into key industry topics, including national and Oregon-specific issues such as telemedicine, the veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and the role of midlevel practitioners. Updates were provided on various legislative initiatives, including the successful advocacy efforts of the OVMA. These include preventing the scheduling of xylazine as a controlled substance in Oregon and advocating for legislative measures such as House Bill 4043-B, aimed at enhancing penalties for animal cruelty offenses.
Officials
The OVMA is led by esteemed professionals dedicated to advancing veterinary medicine in Oregon. Dr. Charles Hurty, serving as president, alongside Dr. Lynn Healy, president-elect, Dr. Jill Parker, immediate past president, and Glenn Kolb, executive director, form a visionary leadership team committed to the association’s mission.
The Oregon VMA Conference serves as a platform for education, recognition, and collaboration, reflecting the dedication and passion of Oregon’s veterinary community.
