image: Chris Thomson is the 2013 AMP/Michael D. Hayre Fellow in Public Outreach. view more
Credit: Jaclyn Hansel
Chris Thomson, a second year veterinary student at University of Minnesota's College of Veterinary Medicine, has been awarded the 2013 AMP/Michael D. Hayre Fellowship in Public Outreach. Chris' program will focus on student-to-student outreach at veterinary schools and conferences across America.
Through campus presentations, workshops, and media initiatives via veterinary education programs throughout America, Chris will build and maintain informed understanding and acceptance of the importance of animals to biomedical research. The project, "The Veterinary Impact," will also feature a robust website and series of posters.
Chris graduated from Iowa State University with degrees in Animal Science and International Agriculture. At the University of Minnesota, Chris serves as a National Delegate for the Student American Veterinary Medical Association, a National Student Liaison for the American Association of Veterinary State Boards, and is Founder and Vice President of the Research Animal Medicine Club for veterinary students interested in research.
"All students preparing for careers in veterinary medicine should understand how integral research animals are to medical advances, critical to both people and animals. Chris' program will highlight opportunities for careers in research animal medicine – and give those students who choose private practice a new appreciation for the development of the treatments that they will use to heal animals throughout their professional lives," said Jacquie Calnan, President of Americans for Medical Progress. "We at AMP are delighted to welcome Chris and assist him in this outreach."
The Michael D. Hayre Fellowship in Public Outreach, established by Americans for Medical Progress in 2008, promotes peer education about humane and responsible animal research among students and young adults aged 18-30. Named in memory of AMP's former Chairman, Michael D. Hayre, DVM, ACLAM, the Fellowship provides support for outreach and advocacy projects in the United States.
To learn more about the AMP/Michael D. Hayre Fellowship in Public Outreach, please visit http://www.amprogress.org/HayreFellowship.