President’s message: Thank you! (March 2018)

As my term as AASV president ends, it is a good time to say thank you! We most certainly have an outstanding association and it has been a privilege to serve as its president for the past year.

Often we become involved in activities or leadership roles without fully comprehending their significance until much later. I think all of us at AASV have a high respect and appreciation for all our colleagues who have served in leadership roles in the past – the list is quite long. Their hard work and dedication have helped cement a path that has provided us with the privilege to be recognized as having expertise in helping protect the health and well-being of pigs, as well as the health and well-being of our colleagues. The role of president is not about the office, but rather about the pigs and people we all work with every day.

Swine veterinarians are progressive veterinarians who are always looking forward. Most individuals do not like change, yet progressive individuals are always seeking change, not just for change itself, but rather looking to change to make things better. Our pig farmers have the same attitude and we are proud to work with them every day.

Our association is very lucky to have a highly qualified and dedicated team with Tom, Sue, and Harry. It truly is amazing how easy they make our jobs. They are unselfish and always focused on doing what is best for the association. Just as in any clinic, corporate office, or academic department, the support team is what allows us to be successful. As an organization that is focused on science and having a direct, practical impact in the field, we are quite lucky to have our own journal. The work done by Terri, Karen, Tina, Judi, Sherrie, Laura, Serge, and Zvonimir, along with all the volunteer editorial board, is outstanding. Our webmaster and IT expert, Dave, does amazing work, always behind the scenes. I mention all these names because it is important to remember that without their help and hard work, AASV would not be who we are today. Finally, let us not forget the role you all play in the success of AASV. Our membership is very dedicated and outstanding. All our committees are quite active, and our members are always there to support AASV at any time. It truly is teamwork at all levels that makes our association great!

I have never seen the title of “President” as a title of “power.” Instead, it has been a title that has provided me the opportunity to become more involved and serve a great organization. Through this service, one clearly sees that the real power of our association lies in the hands of our membership.

The mission of AASV is very clear. Our support team and membership continue to do the right things for the right reasons, always focused on the science. Interestingly enough, this mission is the same for all of us involved in the swine industry, regardless of our country of origin or residence. We all have a universal view on one world, one health, and one passion for pigs.

Thank you for the opportunity to serve you!

Alex Ramirez, DVM
AASV President