Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association Hosts Winter Conference at CVM
STARKVILLE, Miss.—The Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine recently welcomed more than 230 veterinary professionals from February 26-28 to campus for the Mississippi Veterinary Medical Association’s Winter Conference, a continuing education event that brings practitioners from across the region together for learning and collaboration.
Veterinarians, veterinary technicians and students attended lectures, wet labs and vendor exhibitions designed to keep practitioners current on advances in animal health, clinical techniques and emerging issues in the field. This year’s attendees represented Mississippi as well as Arkansas and Tennessee.
Dr. Nick Frank, MSU CVM dean, said hosting the MVMA Winter Conference reflects the college’s commitment to supporting veterinary medicine statewide.
“We’re really excited to have people here who might not normally visit the college,” Frank said. “This event allows them to see our facilities, spend time with our faculty and staff, and learn more about the role we play in supporting veterinary medicine in Mississippi and the region.”
The conference featured presentations from invited speakers as well as MSU faculty and staff. Hands-on opportunities included an equine wet lab, while the exhibit hall showcased new products and innovations available to clinics throughout the state.
For many practicing veterinarians, the in-person format remains an essential part of continuing education.
“Information expands every day, and you have to keep up,” said Dr. Richard Gill, a private practitioner from Clinton and president of the MVMA. “You can get continuing education online, but you don’t get the one-on-one conversations with colleagues. The camaraderie and shared experiences are incredibly valuable.”
Gill said the accessibility of MSU CVM continues to be one of the profession’s greatest assets.
“Veterinarians in the state are fortunate to have a resource like the vet school,” he said. “When we have difficult cases: cancer, heart disease, or anything outside the scope of private practice, we know we have experts within a few hours’ drive.”
MVMA Executive Director DeAnna Dillard said the conference is one of two annual CE opportunities offered by the organization.
“This event allows veterinarians to continue their education, network with colleagues and future associates, and stay informed about new tools and technologies,” Dillard said. “We’re honored to host it here at MSU’s College of Veterinary Medicine.”
MSU CVM has partnered with MVMA for many years to provide a venue and support for the winter conference, reinforcing the university’s mission to advance animal and public health throughout Mississippi.
During the conference, three veterinarians were singled out for awards and recognition. Dr. Bobby Glenn was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Kale Hatten was presented with the Young Veterinarian of the Year Award. And Dr. Jack Smith, who serves as the CVM’s Associate Dean for Academics, was named the Veterinarian of the Year by the MVMA.
