BioSci Alumna Elected to Lead American Veterinary Medical Association

Congratulations to Dr. Jennifer Quammen who was recently elected to the position of president-elect for the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).  Dr. Quammen earned dual bachelor's degrees from Northern Kentucky University in 2004 and went on to receive a Master of Public Health from the University of Iowa in 2010 and a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from The Ohio State University in 2011.

Dr. Quammen has been a long-time support of NKU and the Department of Biological Sciences, serving as one of the volunteer veterinarians for the Institutional Animal Care and Use Committee (IACUC). This service makes it possible for multiple faculty and students to conduct federally funded research  using animals and provides oversight to the use of live animals in NKU classes.

She previously served as Vice-President of AVMA where her work included outreach to veterinary students, faculty and colleges across the United States. She is currently the Chief Veterinary Officer of Otto, which provides televet servides and other IT support for veterinarians. As a practicing veterinarian, Dr. Quammen specializes in surgery and dentistry.

Dr. Quammen is also the co-founder of Veterinarian Coaching, which supports the physical, mental and social well-being of veterinarians.

"This recognition is truly well deserved. From her time as an undergraduate at NKU and a research student in my lab, Jen has consistently demonstrated a drive for excellence, coupled with deep compassion for both people and animals.," said Dr. Richard Durtsche.

"Her ability to achieve ambitious goals was evident early on—conducting and presenting research at regional, national, and international conferences, where she was often mistaken for a graduate student.  

Jen’s remarkable accomplishments since graduating from NKU are a testament to her unwavering dedication and exceptional capabilities. Her experience, passion, and empathy will no doubt serve her well in this leadership role. Jen is a shining example of the excellence we are proud to see in NKU alumni."

Fellow veterinarian and NKU alumnus Dr. John Secter echoed those sentiments. "Dr. Quammenn has done veterinary relief work for us many times.  Her diagnostic skills are outstanding, as are her technical skills. On one occasion I was  in the middle of a dental procedure on a Border Collie. She came in and picked up where I left off.  It was more involved than I had anticipated, and I needed to leave to catch my flight. Her skill and confidence was very admirable.  I know she will do an impeccable job as president of the AVMA."