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Contact: Karen Templeton

STARKVILLE, Miss.--Dr. Ron McLaughlin has been named the new associate dean for administration of the ²ÝÝ®ÊÓƵ College of Veterinary Medicine.

McLaughlin, a board-certified veterinary surgeon, started at MSU-CVM in 2000 as an associate professor and chief of surgery. He became head of the department of clinical sciences in 2006.

"Dr. McLaughlin provides exemplary teaching and administration at our college," said Dr. Kent Hoblet, MSU-CVM dean. "Under his leadership, there have been many accomplishments and advances within the clinical sciences department."

McLaughlin was a part of developing two centers that serve veterinary needs within the region.

The Veterinary Specialty Center is a partnership with MSU's Institute for Imaging and Analytical Technologies. Experts at VSC are using imaging technology to understand more about and treat canine and feline brain tumors and other neurological problems. VSC is housed within the Premier Imaging complex in Starkville, just a few miles from the veterinary college. Premier treats human patients, while VSC treats animal patients. The Animal Emergency and Referral Center in Flowood was developed through a partnership with Jackson-area veterinarians and provides 24-hour emergency care to pets in the area, along with specialty services.

"Dr. McLaughlin provided many of the early ideas on these projects and also the guidance needed to make them successful," Hoblet said. "His vision for the college has not only improved animal care in our state, but has also provided unparalleled opportunities for our students."

McLaughlin also provided leadership in establishing the college's Veterinary Medical Technology program. One of only three 4-year veterinary technology programs in the country, the undergraduate program provides hands-on clinical experiences alongside veterinary students.

As associate dean, McLaughlin along with other college administration, will help lead MSU-CVM in carrying out its strategic plan, continuing to recruit and retain quality faculty and students, and in keeping ahead of the curve in new advances in animal and public health.

"Dr. McLaughlin understands our mission, and as a matter of fact, really helped us develop and shape it," Hoblet said. "His career reflects accomplishments in veterinary surgery, outreach, teaching, and administration, and we are proud to have him take on this new role."

McLaughlin earned his doctor of veterinary medicine degree from the University of Missouri-Columbia. He completed his surgery residency at the Ontario Veterinary College, taught at Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine and worked in private practice before coming to MSU.

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