Fellowship Program Allows Veterinarians to Observe, Influence Public Policy Development

Robert Hay Jr.
Phone: 800-321-1473 ext. 3208
e-mail: rhay@avma.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 22, 2005

Fellowship Program Allows Veterinarians to Observe, Influence Public Policy Development

Washington, D.C.

— The American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) announced this week the initiation of its search for applicants for the 2006-2007 AVMA Fellowship program. Selected participants will spend a year in Washington, D.C., working in the U.S. Congress or Department of Homeland Security as an AVMA Fellow.

The AVMA Fellowship offers members a wide variety of opportunities to learn how federal public policy is made and to influence outcomes. Fellows work not just as observers, but as contributing participants who provide science-based knowledge and information to the public policy-making process.

AVMA Fellowships are designed to help AVMA members garner a better understanding of the governmental process, gain insight into the future of science and the veterinary profession, and offer an opportunity to be on the front-line of government decision-making. AVMA Fellows also have the opportunity to network and meet government leaders, newsmakers, media personalities, and other veterinarians involved in public policy.

“Never before has a veterinarian’s scientific perspective been more important in the government process,” said Dr. Kent Ames, a 2004-2005 Congressional Science Fellow who worked in the office of Senator Gordon Smith (R-Ore.), “And never before has there been such an opportunity to make an impact.”

Both Fellowships allow AVMA members to work on the front line of national policy, writing legislation and regulations that affect the veterinary profession. Fellows spend one year in Washington, beginning at the end of August, and receive a stipend of $65,000 plus other reimbursable expenses.

Candidates must be AVMA members and United States citizens to qualify. Due to the sensitive nature of the positions, candidates must also pass a background test. In addition, as advocates for veterinary medicine, applicants should possess excellent writing and presentation skills, and have varied social and scientific interests and curiosities as reflected by their involvement in professional organizations. Applications are due February 10, 2006.

For more information about the program and the specific criteria requirements, or to apply for a Fellowship, please call Robert Hay, Jr., program and administrative coordinator, at 800-321-1473 ext. 3208, or e-mail him at rhay@avma.org.

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Founded in 1863, the AVMA is one of the oldest and largest veterinary medical organizations in the world, comprised of more than 73,000 member veterinarians engaged in a wide variety of professional activities. AVMA members are dedicated to advancing the science and art of veterinary medicine, including its relationship to public health and agriculture. Visit the AVMA Web site at www.avma.org to learn more about veterinary medicine and animal care, and access up-to-date information on the association’s issues, policies, and activities.