My thoughts on teaching

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medical Education
• Anatomy, Embryology, and Physiology

Background:

• The Pfizer Distinguished Teacher Award is the most prestigious teaching award in veterinary medicine, sponsored by Pfizer Animal Health since 1963.
• Awardees are selected based on teaching excellence, extracurricular support, character, and leadership, with input from students, peers, and administrators.
• The Association of American Veterinary Medical Colleges (AAVMC) oversees the national selection process.

Purpose of the Study:

• To recognize and honor Dr. Bonnie Smith for her outstanding contributions to veterinary medical education.
• To highlight Dr. Smith's exemplary teaching methods and profound impact on student learning and development.

Main Methods:

• Dr. Bonnie Smith was nominated by the Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine (VMRCVM) for the national Pfizer Teaching Award.
• Selection involved a national committee sponsored by the AAVMC, reviewing dossiers of awardees from U.S. veterinary colleges.
• Evaluation criteria included teaching excellence, student support, character, and leadership, with input from students, peers, and administrators.

Main Results:

• Dr. Bonnie Smith was awarded the 2008 Pfizer Teaching Award.
• She has received over 22 teaching awards, including three Pfizer Teaching Awards, and numerous other accolades from VMRCVM, Virginia Tech, and national organizations.
• Students and peers consistently praise her unique teaching style, energy, clarity, ability to simplify complex concepts, and positive influence as a role model.

Conclusions:

• Dr. Bonnie Smith's long history of teaching excellence and significant positive impact on students make her a highly deserving recipient of the Pfizer Distinguished Teacher Award.
• Her legendary ability to foster student learning and development, coupled with her strong character and leadership, exemplifies the highest standards in veterinary medical education.