2011 Leman Science Award Recipient Announced

March 30, 2011 — 

Gordon D. Spronk, D.V.M., of Pipestone, Minnesota, will be honored with the Allen D. Leman Science in Practice Award from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine and Pfizer Animal Health. Dr. Spronk is being honored for his outstanding contributions to the creation and dissemination of new knowledge for the betterment of the swine industry.

Established by the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine in 1994, the Allen D. Leman Science in Practice Award is recognized as one of the most prestigious in the swine industry. Presented annually at the Allen D. Leman Swine Conference, it honors individuals whose achievements contribute significantly to the body of knowledge related to swine health and management.

The Allen D. Leman Swine Conference is an international, multi-session scientific conference promoting "science-driven solutions." Nearly 1,000 leaders in the worldwide swine industry meet at the conference each year to present new information and research and discuss current and future issues facing the industry. This year, the conference will take place September 17-20 at RiverCentre in downtown St. Paul.

Dr. Spronk received his D.V.M. from the University of Minnesota in 1981. A staff veterinarian and partner at Pipestone Veterinary Clinic in Pipestone, Minnesota, for 30 years, he has served as a consultant in swine health in more than 10 states and 10 countries. He is also an adjunct professor at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine, where he serves on the advisory board of the Swine Disease Eradication Center.

Dr. Spronk was named Swine Practitioner of the Year by the American Association of Swine Practitioners in 2000. Vitally active in the field of swine health, management, and production, he makes numerous presentations at swine veterinary conferences and production meetings throughout the Midwest, nationally, and internationally.