December Message from the President
Dear fellow Diplomates,
As we approach the end of the year, I am proud to reflect on the significant achievements and progress we have made as an organization in 2024. While a detailed summary will be shared in the 2024 Impact Report early in 2025, I’m pleased to share some of the highlights.
- New exams were administered for the first time this year after intensive redevelopment efforts by Diplomate volunteers, ACVIM staff, and exam professionals. The Certification Town Hall held in September allowed Diplomates to learn more about exam changes and to review this year’s General and Specialty Exam results.
- We welcomed in the Class of 2024, all of whom were recognized in ceremony during the 2024 ³Ô¹Ï±¬ÁÏ. This ceremony was one of the highlights of my year as President!
- Speaking of our annual conference, the 2024 ³Ô¹Ï±¬ÁÏ was held this June in Minneapolis, Minnesota, with sessions available online through October. Over 2,500 veterinary professionals attended in person – many of whom I
was able to meet! – and enjoyed the advanced education and networking only Forum can provide. I have also directly received feedback appreciating our ongoing commitment to providing virtual Forum content, expanding accessibility
of this valuable educational resource.
- Ten ACE courses took place this year, as well as 9 additional educational webinars. Our incredible staff and ACE Committee do a tremendous job of developing advancedlearning opportunities in cutting-edge topics for Diplomates and Candidates.
- The new ACVIM Fellowship program established in 2023 saw its first two new ACVIM Fellows: Dr. Jocelyn Mott in feline and canine diabetes, and Dr. Lauren Markovic in interventional cardiology.
- The Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee started their work this year, guided by the DEI Blueprint developed in 2023 and chaired by Dr. Ruthanne Chun. The Board continues to engage closely with the DEI Committee to ensure the DEI perspective is embedded in decision-making across the organization. Dr. Chun will continue to attend Board meetings to support this ongoing dialogue.
NOVEMBER BOARD MEETING ITEMS
During the recent November Board meeting, we had the opportunity to review many of the year’s accomplishments while also outlining priorities for 2025. The Board approved a budget that included a new Member Assistance Program, a Candidate Fee Waiver Program, and a multiyear research project focused on the perception of veterinary specialty medicine among the public and primary care practitioners. Recognizing the financial pressure on Candidates, the budget also keeps Candidate Fees unchanged for the fourth year straight.
The Board continues to focus on optimizing the residency training experience for all stakeholders. We are doing this internally by implementing RTP oversight tactics, including surveys to Candidates and mentors, and continuing to work across specialties to standardize and streamline requirements wherever possible. This is also being done externally by advocating for third-party oversight of programs with the AVMA and other specialty groups.
THANK YOU, BOARD MEMBERS AND STAFF!
Last, but certainly not least, I’d like to thank those members of the Board whose service is coming to an end this year: a huge thank you to Dr. Jane Sykes and Dr. Roger Hostutler, who have both dedicated so much of their time and effort to the advancement of our college. I’d also like to welcome new and onboarding members of the Board:
- Dr. Henry W. Green ascends to the role of President
- Dr. Jana Raessler will begin her role as SAIM Specialty President
- Dr. Munashe Chigerwe will begin observing as President-Elect and join the Board in 2026
- Dr. Bob Van Saun will begin observing as Nutrition Specialty President-Elect and join the Board in 2026
- Dr. Jenna Burton will begin observing as Oncology Specialty President-Elect and join the Board in 2026
I am so thankful for the opportunity to serve as your President this year, and as I move into the role of Chair in 2025, I remain dedicated to ensuring that you feel both represented and informed, as well as confident in our future trajectory. I encourage you to reach out to me or to any member of the Board with questions, concerns or feedback at any time. Our wonderful, hardworking staff team are also available to assist you throughout your career.
Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and a very Happy New Year!
Sincerely,
 | Sarah Gillings, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Oncology) |