ISU Vet Med Dean to Retire as Dean in 2011

February 10, 2010 — Tracy Ann Raef

Dr. John Thomson, dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State, announced today that he is retiring as dean effective Jan. 1, 2011. Thomson has served as dean at Iowa State since August 2004. He intends to serve on the ISU faculty, focusing on outcomes-based medicine and best production animal practices. Iowa State President Gregory Geoffroy said Thomson's leadership has made a significant contribution to veterinary education and service.

"As dean, John Thomson has consistently demonstrated his commitment to each of the missions of the College of Veterinary Medicine: educating talented, dedicated veterinarians; conducting vital research; and sharing the expertise of the college throughout Iowa and beyond," Geoffroy said. Hoffman said a national search for Thomson's replacement will begin in March.

"I have a great appreciation of the importance the Iowa Legislature, Iowa Board of Regents and the university place on our college and its impact on animal and human health and the Iowa economy," said Thomson. "Working with allies such as the Iowa Veterinary Medical Association, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Farm Bureau Federation and other organizations has been extremely gratifying."

Thomson earned his D.V.M. degree from Iowa State in 1967, was in private practice in Iowa for 20 years, and served in administrative positions for more than 20 years at South Dakota State University, Mississippi State University and Iowa State. Prior to becoming dean at Iowa State, he was dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine at Mississippi State, 1999-2004. Dr. Thomson was the AASV's 2009 Howard Dunne Memorial Lecturer.

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Tracy Ann Raef, Communications Specialist, College of Veterinary Medicine, Iowa State University