Illinois Vet News

NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2011 EDITION

FROM THE DEAN

For four decades Dr. Wally Hoffmann has epitomized service leadership at this college. And for the past four years he has delayed enjoying his retirement to fill key roles: first heading the diagnostic lab and then, for most of 2011, serving as executive dean over all our service units. Today, as he wraps up his activities as executive dean, please join me in expressing deep gratitude for his invaluable service.

We also welcome a new leader in our college, Anna Lee Fenger, assistant dean for administration.
Anna Lee started her career as a critical care nurse and has served in senior healthcare executive positions for over 25 years with OSF Healthcare System-Peoria, most recently as chief strategy officer developing long-range strategic and financial plans for five acute-care hospitals. She brings this skill set to the college as we are shaping our plans to deliver excellence in veterinary education, research, and engagement despite a tough budget climate.

In the coming months I will have more to share regarding our strategic planning. Expect exciting solutions for the challenges facing the people and animals we serve.

I wish you all a happy holiday season and a wonderful new year--Herb.

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SPOTLIGHT ON COMPARATIVE BIOSCIENCES

Welcome Dr. Aditi Das

Dr. Aditi DasDr. Aditi Das first came to Illinois when, after completing her PhD in Chemistry from Princeton University, she began postdoctoral research with Dr. Stephen Sligar at the Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology.  Now, the new assistant professor of comparative biosciences is a Beckman Institute affiliate.

Much of her research focuses on the membrane proteins that produce pain and inflammation responses and are key pharmaceutical targets. A current study explores the use of nanostructure scaffolding to maintain the integrity of the membrane proteins cells so can be more easily examined.  As a biochemist, Dr. Das says interdisciplinary opportunities at Illinois have a strong appeal. An additional advantage of a being at a veterinary college is that collaboration on animal models can address the need for better pain medication in a variety of species.

Dr. Das, who is herself allergic to ibuprofen, is well aware of the potential benefits of her work, which could lead to the reduction or elimination of side effects, and improved precision in dosages.

Currently at work setting up her lab, Dr. Das looks forward to working with graduate students as well as co-teaching in the professional curriculum.

> Read more about Dr. Das

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EMERGENCY SERVICES ARE HERE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Planning coverage for your clinic during the winter holidays? The Veterinary Teaching Hospital provides emergency services 24/7/365 --including all holidays.

Clients can call ahead (217-333-5300 for small animal; 217-333-2000 for large animal). For more information about referring emergency and convenient care cases, call Ginger Passalacqua at 217-333-5311.

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IN THE NEWS

Dean Whiteley Receives ISVMA Veterinary Service Award

Dean Herb Whiteley received the 2011 Veterinary Service Award at the November 11 Annual Meeting of the Illinois State Veterinary Medical Association. This award recognizes his promotion of the human-animal bond and his work as an ISVMA Member.

Dr. Val Beasley Co-Authors Report Linking Atrazine to Reproductive Problems

An international team of researchers has reviewed the evidence linking exposure to atrazine – an herbicide widely used in the U.S. and more than 60 other nations – to reproductive problems in animals. The team found consistent patterns of reproductive dysfunction in amphibians, fish, reptiles and mammals exposed to the chemical. The most robust findings are in amphibians, according to Dr. Val Beasley, professor emeritus of the College.

> Read more

ARE YOU WILD ABOUT ILLINOIS WILDLIFE

owlHelp support today's wildlife and tomorrow's veterinarians. Mark your calendar for Saturday, March 3, 2012, when the 11th annual Doodle for Wildlife will be held at the I Hotel. Join us in honoring Dr. Leroy Nietzel, this year's recipient of the Wildlife for Life award. Help us spread the word. Stay tuned for more details.

> Find out more about donating auction items.

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ALUMNI NEWS

Congratulations to Dr. Gary Brummet, Class of 1981, on receiving the Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Award from the East Central Illinois Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals for his work with Cunningham Children's Home and the Champaign County Humane Society.

Kudos to Dr. Kandi Norrell, Class of 2006, on being selected as the region 5 (EIVMA) emerging leader for the AVMA Leadership Conference scholarship.

For more alumni updates or to share your news, follow us on Facebook.

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FEATURED PRACTICE:

Four Paws Animal Hospital Four Paws Animal Hospital, O'Fallon, Ill.

Meet co-owners, Dr. James Jessen, Class of 1989, and Dr. James W. Bollmeier, Class of 2000.

Learn more about Four Paws

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GIFTS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE, MAKE US SMILE, AND GIVE US HOPE

As you plan your end-of-year gifts, consider making a tax-deductible donation that supports animal care through the College of Veterinary Medicine.

Our secure online giving option is available through December 31. Have questions about end-of-year gifts? We've got the answers here.

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pug in snowCan't get your furry friend to don a pair of reindeer antlers for the family holiday card? We can help.

Try our free "Picture Your Pet" web app. Just upload a photo of your pet(s), customize with your choice of holiday accessories, and you're ready to save, e-mail, or post to Facebook or Twitter. Get started here.

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dog on calendar coverGive the gift of hope when you buy the 2012 Veterinary Cancer Care Clinic calendar. Each month tells a uniquely inspiring story about one of our cancer patients, as well as providing important information about veterinary cancer.

Get your copy for $10 at the teaching hospital small animal reception desk or by contacting Jenny Rose at jenrose@illinois.edu or 217/333-5287.

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FEATURED VIDEOS

Words of Wisdom (and Song) from Members of the Classes of '56, '61, and '66.

2011 combined class reunionWhy I Became a Veterinarian

Advice for Today's Veterinary Students

My Wild Irish Rose

> Watch these and other videos on our College of Veterinary Medicine YouTube Channel.

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PET COLUMNS

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WORK AT VET MED

The Department of Veterinary Medicine is seeking a full-time, 100% (12 month basis) open rank (clinical or tenure-track) assistant, associate or full professor in veterinary small animal surgery.

Learn about our residencies and other employment opportunities.

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UPCOMING CONTINUING EDUCATION

Get more continuing education info

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The College of Veterinary Medicine at Illinois :: 2001 South Lincoln Avenue :: Urbana, Illinois 61802