January 28, 2021
College of Veterinary Medicine professor elected to national role
After a nationwide search, the Board of Regents and Executive Board of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine has announced the appointment of Raelene Wouda, assistant professor of oncology, to the position of certification liaison.
This newly created role is a division of duties that, in the past, was fully held by the organization's professional liaison. The role involves participation with the organization's board, as well as collaboration with the American Board of Veterinary Specialties and Veterinary Specialty Organizations Committee.
As the certification liaison, Wouda will work closely with the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine staff and other volunteer leaders to facilitate and encourage activities associated with the certification process. She will contribute her subject matter expertise and knowledge as a recent graduate of an ACVIM residency program to the creation, maintenance, execution and communication of sound certification policy. Additionally, Wouda will provide leadership as the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine moves toward a reimagined organizational model that provides clear autonomy for certification-related decisions.
Wouda's wide-ranging experience as a volunteer for the organization, along with her ongoing responsibilities in overseeing current American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine candidates, uniquely qualifies her to understand the importance of this role. Her passion for the values and highly regarded reputation of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine are central to her desire to serve in this position.
In accepting the role, Woulda said, "The ACVIM is fundamental to the promotion of the veterinary profession and best practice specialized veterinary care for our patients and their families. I am looking forward immensely to continuing to contribute to the ACVIM at an administrative level. This new role is a wonderful opportunity not only to help guide the redesign of ACVIM governance but to play a daily part in encouraging, supporting and inspiring our candidates."
Wouda's position as assistant professor at K-State's College of Veterinary Medicine spans clinical, research and teaching responsibilities. She has also been extensively involved in administrative committee work at the college level and is currently the re-elected chair of the Awards and Scholarship Committee.