The Iowa Veterinary Medical Association has elected an ISU professor to serve as the new president-elect, taking him one step closer to the helm of the organization.

Patrick Halbur, associate professor of veterinary diagnostics and production animal medicine, accepted the position last month at the group’s 118th annual meeting.

“Dr. Halbur is a highly effective leader in the animal health industry in Iowa,” said Norman Cheville, dean of veterinary medicine. “This position will enhance our connection to practicing veterinarians throughout the state of Iowa.”

Serving as an officer on the administrative committee of the Iowa Veterinary Medical Association is a four-year commitment.

First, one is elected as vice president and serves one year watching and learning about how the organization operates. The following year is the term as president-elect, during which time is spent working closely with the president and advising him or her on issues and policies. Then, the president-elect serves the president and past president, Halbur said.

“This year, I will primarily work to help the current president, Dr. David Wilgenbusch, of Cresco, Iowa, implement several goals,” he said.

Halbur said the goals include implementing a mentoring program among Iowa veterinarians and ISU veterinary students and increasing membership and participation in the organization by students and recent graduates.

Halbur’s appointment allows him to meet and learn from practicing veterinarians every day, giving him a better understanding of the current issues in the livestock industry and companion animal medicine.

His involvement in the association gives him a better feel for the needs and interests of future veterinarians, Halbur said.

“The College of Veterinary Medicine and the [Iowa Veterinary Medical Association] are closely linked,” he said, “and I should be in a position to further that win-win relationship.”