Athens, Ga. – University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine professor emeritus Jeanne Barsanti received the 2007 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine’s Distinguished Service Award at the 25th annual ACVIM Forum held in Seattle, Wash., in June. This award honors ACVIM diplomats who have provided exemplary and sustained service in the capacity of elected office or voluntary service.

“Dr. Barsanti served 13 consecutive years on the (ACVIM's) Board of Regents during a time when this group was dramatically growing,” said Patti Luttgen, who nominated and introduced Barsanti. “Her heartfelt dedication is why we honor her today.”

Barsanti’s years of service to the ACVIM included positions as the Specialty of Internal Medicine president, a member of the nominating committee, and president of the college. She played a major role in crafting the ACVIM Forum program into generalist and specialist tracks, and actively recruited speakers to create engaging program material, which has helped shape the cutting-edge continuing education the ACVIM Forum is known for today.

“Her friendly personality and quiet confidence lead the (ACVIM) ‘into the light’ on many instances when the organization was finding its way to becoming the leader it is now recognized to be in the veterinary medical profession,” said Luttgen.

As a member of UGA’s College of Veterinary Medicine faculty for 29 years, Barsanti was the head of small animal medicine and surgery before retiring in 2004. As professor emerita, she continues to conduct investigations in upper and lower urinary tract diseases, prostatic diseases and general internal medicine.

“We are grateful that Dr. Barsanti continues to have a strong presence in the College of Veterinary Medicine,” said Dean Sheila W. Allen. “She continues to set an outstanding example of professionalism for her colleagues and students, and works diligently to carry out the mission of the university. She is without a doubt most deserving of this highest award from ACVIM.”

The University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, founded in 1946, is dedicated to training future veterinarians, providing services to animal owners and veterinarians, and conducting investigations to improve the health of animals as well as people. The college benefits pets and their owners, food-producing animals and wildlife by offering the highest quality hospital and diagnostic laboratory services. Equipped with the most technologically advanced facilities located on a university campus, the college is dedicated to safeguarding public health by studying emerging infectious diseases that affect both animal and human health. The college enrolls 96 students each fall out of more than 500 who apply. It has more than 130 faculty members. See www.vet.uga.edu for more information.

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