Dr. Annette O’Connor, an internationally recognized veterinarian and quantitative epidemiologist, has been named the Senior Associate Dean for Faculty and Administrative Affairs at the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine effective July 1, 2025.

In this new role, O’Connor will lead key areas including faculty and academic staff affairs, budget and resource management, and institutional data and analytics. This includes the development of a comprehensive institutional data strategy, addressing complex analytic needs across the College—from admissions and student success to operational metrics and compliance. Her prior experience includes performance evaluation, professional development, and support across the College employment lifecycle—from onboarding through promotion and retirement.

“Dr. O’Connor’s skillset is especially important as we prepare to navigate an increasingly uncertain federal funding landscape,” says Dr. Kim Dodd, Dean of the College. “I look forward to the continued impact of her leadership as we work together to strengthen the structures and systems that help our entire community thrive.”

As a veterinarian and epidemiologist, O’Connor has been a leader in veterinary science efforts to reduce research wastage and maximize value. She has led initiatives that improve the reporting of all research involving animals; these initiatives have required international collaborations and have had international impact.

She has served as an advisor for the European Food Safety Authority and the Food and Drug Administration, as well as being a former president for the Association for Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine and the Evidence-based Veterinary Medical Association. At the MSU College of Veterinary Medicine, she also formerly served as the Chair of Large Animal Clinical Sciences.

“It’s an honor to step into this role,” says O’Connor. “I’m committed to supporting our faculty and staff across every stage of their careers, so they can achieve their goals and advance our shared mission. As a land-grant institution, MSU’s success depends on empowering people and fostering excellence. I look forward to working with colleagues across the College and MSU to ensure our academic, operational, and data strategies support institutional resilience and deepen our impact on the communities we serve."

She will also continue her role as Interim Associate Dean for Student Engagement and Success during the search for a permanent candidate.

O’Connor’s ongoing leadership and experience with areas across the College will be invaluable in furthering the College’s vision to be the destination for teaching, innovations, care, and service.