PROVIDENCE – Rhode Island State Veterinarian Scott Marshall, DVM has been named Veterinarian of the Year by the Rhode Island Veterinary Medical Association (RIVMA). Dr. Marshall, who works in the Department of Environmental Management's Division of Agriculture, was presented with the award at RIVMA's annual meeting held last week at the Hyatt Regency in Newport.
In an effort to recognize the many and varied contributions made by local veterinarians, the RIVMA established the Veterinarian of the Year Award in 2006. The organization's Board of Directors reviewed the nominations that were submitted for the award and selected Dr. Marshall as this year's recipient at its October Board meeting. Dr. Marshall was nominated by Jane Linden, DVM and unanimously endorsed by the RIVMA Board of Directors for his meritorious service to the public and the veterinary and animal welfare communities.
Outgoing RIVMA President Honorata Lenk, DVM presented the award to Dr. Marshall. "He is unfailingly helpful and resourceful when called upon – which is continuously. His office has been tremendously proactive in alerting the community to health risks or concerns related to animal welfare. He is an ambassador to our farmers, our shelters, our veterinary members, legislators and the public at large," she said. "Dr. Marshall spearheaded the RI Disaster Animal Response Team and has personally served side-by-side with volunteers in two area storms and a flood. He is held in high regard by colleagues because he is knowledgeable and helpful and brings a "can-do" spirit to his work every day. We are proud to share a token of our appreciation and respect in presenting him with the Veterinarian of the Year Award."
A resident of North Smithfield, Dr. Marshall has served as the Rhode Island State Veterinarian since January 2007. He oversees the Division of Agriculture's Animal Health unit, whose mission it is to ensure the health of Rhode Island animals, ensure public health, and promote agriculture. Under Dr. Marshall's leadership during the past seven years, DEM has updated regulations related to the importation of animals, rabies prevention and control, and the importation and possession of exotic wild animals, and has served to facilitate the growth and viability of various animal-related segments of the state's agricultural economy. As the Rhode Island State Veterinarian, he is a member of numerous advisory boards including Livestock Welfare and the Organics Advisory Board, and serves as president of the Rabies Control Board.
"Scott Marshall is an outstanding veterinarian and we are so fortunate to have such a dedicated, compassionate individual working to advance animal welfare in Rhode Island," said DEM Director Janet Coit. "As the state veterinarian, Dr. Marshall's responsibilities often require him to work with animal control officers, farmers, horse and pet owners, health professionals, municipal officials and members of animal welfare organizations, and he consistently handles these interactions with a gracious and positive can-do attitude. Dr. Marshall is a true professional, and his colleagues at DEM are pleased to see him recognized by his fellow veterinarians for his outstanding efforts to advance the health of animals in our state."
"Dr. Marshall is one of the most progressive state veterinarians in the country looking at his role within the Division of Agriculture, not just from a regulatory or enforcement lens, but taking a broad picture as to how he can best assist livestock farmers, the various municipal shelters, and other parts of the animal care world in Rhode Island," said Ken Ayars, chief of DEM's Division of Agriculture. "We are truly blessed to have him within the Division of Agriculture."
Recipients of RIVMA's Veterinarian of the Year Award must be members in good standing that are of exemplary character and professional ethics, and who have contributed as an active community participant. Past award recipients include Michele Consiglio, DVM; Gary Block, DVM; Henry Childers, DVM; and Cathy Lund, DVM.