Dr. Michael Chaddock, associate dean for Administration at the College of Veterinary Medicine, has been awarded the 2017 LGBT+ Veterinary Awareness Award from the Broad Spectrum Veterinary Student Association. The award is given to individuals who go above and beyond to provide support and ensure inclusivity regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression in veterinary academia. Chaddock was one of six individuals in the country to receive the award.

Broad Spectrum is a student association that aims to connect, support, and empower a community for LGBTQ veterinary students and allies in North America and the Caribbean. The LGBT+ Veterinary Awareness Award seeks to recognize those who have demonstrated commitment to Broad Spectrum’s mission by developing awareness of the LGBTQ community and its importance within the realm of veterinary education and practice.

Chaddock currently serves as the vice president for the Lesbian and Gay Veterinary Medical Association, where he focuses on fostering acceptance and inclusivity for people of all sexual orientations and gender identities within the veterinary medical profession. He has been a long-time faculty advisor and mentor to veterinary medical students at Texas A&M University and Michigan State University.

Chaddock was nominated for his lectures on LGBTQ advocacy and wellness and his dedication to promoting inclusiveness within the veterinary community. Chaddock has given lectures across North America at conferences and colleges of veterinary medicine. This April, he gave two lectures on LGBTQ wellness at the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine as part of the College’s pride month celebration.

“This is an amazing honor for Dr. Chaddock,” said Hilda Mejia Abreu, assistant dean for Admissions, Scholarships, Diversity, and Inclusion. “He has worked tirelessly to advocate for the LGBTQ community, and we are thrilled he is being recognized for his efforts.”