The MSU College of Veterinary Medicine has named N. Bari Olivier, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, chairperson of the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences. An associate professor and the acting associate chairperson of the department, Olivier’s appointment is effective August 15, 2016.

“Dr. Olivier will play an important role as a part of the College’s leadership team,” says John Baker, dean, College of Veterinary Medicine. “His long tenure in the department demonstrates his commitment to the College, and we look forward to having him take on this role.”

Olivier is an active clinical researcher and engaged mentor. He has been chair of the College Advisory Council since 2011. In 2015, he became the acting associate chair of the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences.   He is a seven-time recipient of the SAVMA Excellence in Teaching Award, and a three-time recipient of the Norden/Pfizer Excellence in Teaching Award. He was awarded the Pfizer Award for Research Excellence in 2008.

Olivier received his DVM from Louisiana State University. He joined the College as an intern in 1981 and then went on to complete his residency and PhD at MSU. In 1989, he became an assistant professor at the College. His research focuses on heart failure, safety pharmacology, and arrhythmia risk assessments. He is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (Cardiology).

Olivier succeeds Dr. John Kruger, who served as acting chairperson of the department since 2015. The College thanks Dr. Kruger for providing excellent leadership to the department during a period of transition.