Celebrating Excellence: 2025 ACVIM Forum Honors Research Award Winners

On June 20, 2025, the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) Forum held an awards luncheon in Louisville, Kentucky, recognizing fifteen outstanding resident researchers for their significant contributions across various veterinary specialties. This prestigious event, sponsored by the Purina Institute, highlighted innovative investigative work that showcases advancements in veterinary medicine.

The ACVIM Forum is a key conference for veterinary professionals, focusing on internal medicine, and this year’s recognition of resident researchers underscores the importance of research in enhancing animal health and welfare. "The work presented by these resident researchers not only advances our understanding of veterinary medicine but also sets a foundation for future innovations in the field," noted Dr. Jessica Adams, President of ACVIM and professor at the University of Florida.

Among the awardees, Cassidy M. Coats, DVM, from Colorado State University, received accolades for her research on coronary ostial eccentricity in dogs, utilizing cardiac computed tomography. Her study, titled "Coronary Ostial Eccentricity, Aortic Rotation, and Cusp Symmetry in Dogs Evaluated by Cardiac Computed Tomography," was recognized for its potential to enhance diagnostic accuracy in veterinary cardiology. Meanwhile, Kiersten K. Forsyth, DVM, from Purdue University, explored the effects of Zenalpha on blood pressure in healthy dogs, an area crucial for understanding anesthetic impacts in veterinary procedures.

The awards ceremony included a diverse range of research topics, reflecting the multifaceted nature of veterinary medicine. From equine studies by Florence Dupuis-Dowd, DVM, related to glucose dynamics in horses, to Jessica Linder, DVM, who investigated spinal-only meningomyelitis in dogs, the breadth of research represents the dedication of veterinary residents to improving animal health.

Dr. Eline Nijveldt, DVM, from The Ohio State University, presented her findings on echocardiographic evaluations in cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, highlighting the importance of early detection in veterinary cardiology. This body of work illustrates the critical need for ongoing research in understanding complex diseases that affect companion animals.

The recognition of these resident researchers is not merely a celebration of their achievements but also a call to action for the veterinary community to support research initiatives. "Investing in research is vital for the future of veterinary medicine. It leads to better treatments and outcomes for our patients," remarked Dr. Paul Smith, a leading veterinary researcher from the University of California, Davis.

The ACVIM Forum serves as a platform for sharing the latest advancements in veterinary medicine, and the recognition of these researchers at this year’s event emphasizes the importance of collaboration, innovation, and education in the field. As the veterinary profession continues to evolve, the contributions of these researchers will undoubtedly lay the groundwork for future breakthroughs.

Looking forward, the ACVIM Forum will continue to serve as a beacon for veterinary professionals, promoting research that enhances the health and welfare of animals globally. The commitment to fostering new talent in veterinary research is essential, ensuring that the next generation of veterinarians is equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.

For further insights into the research presented at the forum, attendees can access recordings and materials from the conference, which emphasize the ongoing need for scientific inquiry in veterinary practice.