Stange, Switzer Awards Presented to Vet Med Alumni

Pictured from left to right: Dean Dan Grooms, Dr. T. Robert Bashara, Dr. Daryl Olsen, Dr. Bill Reece, Dr. Darrell Neuberger and Gordon Magee representing Dr. Martin Smith.

October 26, 2018

Five alumni of the College of Veterinary Medicine were honored during Homecoming activities with the Stange and Switzer Awards on Friday, Oct. 26.

The Stange Award for Meritorious Service in Veterinary Medicine is the highest award presented to distinguished alumni in the college. The award is presented annually for outstanding professional achievement in the areas of education, government, industry, practice or other professional endeavors in veterinary medicine.

The 2018 recipients of the Stange Award include:

  • Dr. T. Robert Bashara ('63), a long-time advocate for animal welfare with the Doris Day Animal Foundation and retired small animal practitioner in Omaha, Nebraska
  • Dr. Daryl Olsen (’82), senior partner with AMVC Management Services in Audubon, Iowa, and past president of AASV
  • Dr. Martin Smith (’76) of Minocqua, Wisconsin, and founder of Drs. Foster & Smith catalog veterinary supply business

The William P. Switzer Award recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to society and to the college. In addition to professional achievements, these individuals also have an association with the college that has made a positive impact for teaching, research or service.

The 2018 recipients of the Switzer Award include:

  • Dr. Darrell Neuberger (’77) of Garner, Iowa, a past president of the IVMA and retired from Zoetis Technical Services
  • Dr. Bill Reece (’54) of Ames, Iowa, retired University Professor in the College of Veterinary Medicine and long-time editor of Dukes’ Physiology of Domestic Animals

Another pair of veterinary alumni received the Iowa State University Alumni Merit Award. Dr. Brian Darrow (’83) and Dr. Ron Tapper (’84) will be recognized for their work with the Sharon Live On Foundation that was featured recently in the Gentle Doctor magazine. The Alumni Merit Award recognizes ISU alumni for outstanding humanitarian efforts that transcend purely professional accomplishments and bring honor to the university.