James Kober ’87, DVM, MS, Diplomate ABVP-SHM, has been recognized with the “Birth of a Purebred” award for his accomplishments in clinical/production medicine and teaching. Dr. Kober earned his bachelor’s degree in animal science in 1983 and his veterinary degree in 1987, both from Michigan State University. He holds a master’s in science from Iowa State in the field of swine production medicine and is a diplomate of the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners in the Swine Health Management specialty. He operates a swine practice based in Holland, MI that serves producers in Michigan and Indiana, and also is a partner in Four Star Veterinary Services that provides service to swine producers across a wider region.

The “Birth of a Purebred” award was initiated following the donation of a statue of the same name by Drs. Richard Short and Thomas Glasser of Bad Axe, Michigan. The statue is located in the foyer area of the Veterinary Medical Building. Given annually, nominations for the award are submitted to the Dean, typically by the Michigan Veterinary Medical Association (MVMA) Food Animal Practice Committee. This award is presented to an alumnus of the college or a private practitioner in Michigan who works primarily in the food animal medicine and has demonstrated zeal for advancement in clinical/production medicine as well as excellence in student mentorship.

“Jim is valued as a practitioner, an educator, and in his work in organized veterinary medicine,” says Dr. Ray Geor, BVSc PhD, DACVIM, chairperson of the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences. “He has been adjunct faculty in the College since 1998 and is greatly respected for his contributions to student learning through his involvement with the Practice-Based Ambulatory Program as well as other courses in the DVM program.” He is particularly engaged with students interested in the swine industry and is the only board certified swine practitioner in Michigan.

Dr. Kober’s activities in organized veterinary medicine include serving on the welfare committees for the MVMA and the American Association of Swine Veterinarians. He is also a member of the Editorial Board for the Journal of Swine Health and Production.

“Without doubt,” says Geor, “Dr. Kober is a very deserving recipient of this award.”

February 10, 2013