2007 Alabama VMA 100^th Annual Convention – June 28-July1, 2007

The Alabama Veterinary Medical Association held its 100^th Annual Convention in Orange Beach, AL with a record number of attendees. During an awards ceremony and installation of new officers, awards were bestowed on  seven individuals.

Distinguished Service Award:

Dr. Wayne Roberts of Enterprise received the highest award of the Association for his service to the ALVMA, the veterinary profession, and his community.  Dr. Roberts graduated from Auburn University in 1967 and became president of the ALVMA in 1988. Dr. Roberts practiced primarily small animal veterinary medicine for over 35 years.

Veterinarian of the Year:

Dr. Lewis McCurdy of Huntsville is past president of the ALVMA (2004) and has been instrumental in organizing the ALVMA Foundation as well as serving as Foundation president for the last two years. He has been very active in representing veterinary interests as liaison to the Huntsville Humane Association and serving in numerous officer roles for the Madison County Veterinary Medical Association.

Lay Person of the Year:

Mr. Dennis McDonough of Birmingham started the Alabama Pet Registry (APR) in 1993 after recognizing the need for a mechanism to help reunite people with their lost pets. The beginning of this project was financed entirely from Mr. McDonough’s household budget, and to date, no salaries have been paid and only weekend of vacation has been taken. The APR has developed into a non-profit service that not only strives to reunited people with their lost pets, but also serves as a support system for organizations devoted to animal welfare and the human-animal bond.

Special Awards:

Dr. Mark Russell of Huntsville was recognized for his untiring efforts to organize the Association’s 2007 Centennial Celebration, including the publishing of a 100 year Commemorative Book which was given to each Association member. Through his efforts and leadership, the Association has been spotlighted throughout the state and was the recipient of a Commendation by Governor Bob Riley.  Dr. Russell has been practicing small animal veterinary medicine since earning his DVM degree in 1982.

Dr. Jackie Horner of Memphis, Tennessee was given a special award for his years of service as district representative for the Alabama VMA on the AVMA Executive Board. Dr. Horner graduated from Auburn College of Veterinary Medicine in 1966 and served as the ALVMA district rep for six years.

Service Awards:

Drs. Charles Ashwander of Decatur and Babette Authement of Fairhope, were both honored for their years of service to the Association and their continuing efforts in promoting veterinary medicine and the human-animal bond within their local associations.