ACVIM Announces 2025 Recognition Award Recipients Honoring Excellence in Veterinary Internal Medicine
he American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) has announced the recipients of its 2025 Recognition Awards, honoring standout specialists across multiple internal medicine disciplines. The awards were presented during the annual ACVIM Forum, held this year in Louisville, Kentucky.
Each year, the ACVIM Recognition Awards spotlight Diplomates who exemplify excellence in clinical care, research, education, and volunteer service. Recipients are selected based on peer nominations and their impact on animal health and the advancement of veterinary internal medicine.
2025 Award Winners
Dr. Joan R. Coates, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Neurology)
Robert W. Kirk Award for Professional Excellence
A professor at the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Coates is recognized for a distinguished career in veterinary neurology and sustained contributions to the ACVIM and the specialty at large.
Dr. Wendy A. Ware, DVM, MS, DACVIM (Cardiology)
Lee & Inge Pyle Service Award
Professor Emerita at Iowa State University, Dr. Ware is honored for her exceptional volunteer service to the ACVIM, reflecting decades of dedication to the field of veterinary cardiology.
Dr. Raelene M. Wouda, BVSc, DACVIM (Oncology), MANZCVS
William R. Fenner Early Career Award for Outstanding Service
Currently practicing at Veterinary Specialist Services in Queensland, Australia, Dr. Wouda is recognized for her leadership and volunteer service during the first decade of her board-certified career in veterinary oncology.
Dr. Warwick M. Bayly, BVSc, MS, PhD, DACVIM (LAIM)
Specialty Lifetime Achievement Award – Large Animal Internal Medicine
A professor of equine medicine at Washington State University, Dr. Bayly has made longstanding contributions to the field of large animal internal medicine and is recognized for his leadership and mentorship within the specialty.
These awards represent a cross-section of veterinary specialties and recognize not only clinical excellence but also service to the profession and advancement of veterinary knowledge.
About ACVIM
The American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) is the certifying body for veterinary specialists in cardiology, neurology, oncology, large animal internal medicine (LAIM), small animal internal medicine (SAIM), and nutrition. Based in Englewood, Colorado, the organization includes over 3,800 board-certified Diplomates worldwide.
ACVIM supports the veterinary community through specialist certification, continuing education, and the promotion of cutting-edge medical research that enhances animal and public health.
To learn more about the ACVIM Recognition Awards and view past honorees, visit www.acvim.org.
