2024 Executive of the Year
Randy Wheeler
Iowa VMA
2024 Award Recipients
The 2024 Executive of the Year was presented to Dr. Randy Wheeler, Iowa VMA. The Executive of the Year award, established in 1991, stands as a testament to the remarkable achievements of VMAE members in the field of association executive leadership. Reserved for CEOs or staff executives of state or allied associations, this prestigious accolade acknowledges individuals whose dedication and accomplishments have significantly elevated the profession. Recipients of this honor embody the pinnacle of association management, demonstrating exceptional leadership within their own organizations while actively contributing to the broader voluntary membership landscape.
Dr. Randy Wheeler’s remarkable journey from his family’s Century farm to his esteemed position in the veterinary profession serves as an inspiring narrative of dedication and service. Throughout his distinguished career, Dr. Wheeler’s unwavering commitment to veterinary medicine and community welfare has remained steadfast.
Transitioning from a successful mixed animal practitioner to pivotal roles such as Assistant State Veterinarian and later as the Executive Director of the IVMA underscores Dr. Wheeler’s versatility and unwavering dedication to advancing the field of veterinary medicine. His wealth of experience, coupled with accolades such as being named IVMA Veterinarian of the Year in 2010, attests to his expertise and profound impact on the profession.
Dr. Wheeler’s leadership is characterized by integrity, respect, and a genuine concern for all stakeholders. His adept navigation of challenging circumstances and cultivation of robust relationships within the IVMA and the broader veterinary community reflect his commitment to excellence in association management.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Dr. Wheeler’s active engagement in civic activities underscores his commitment to effecting positive change within his community. His multifaceted contributions exemplify the spirit of service and leadership that defines the Executive of the Year award. Congratulations Dr. Wheeler!
2024 Distinguished Service
Rob Hilsenroth, DVM
American Association of Zoo Veterinarians
Dr. Rob Hilsenroth, American Association of Zoo Veterinarians, has been a VMAE member since joining the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians in 2007. His career has been long and distinguished, fitting with the award. Dr. Hilsenroth earned DVM from the University of Georgia. After running a successful small animal practice in Denver for 19 years, he became a media advocate for veterinary issues. He later joined the Morris Animal Foundation as the Staff Veterinarian Spokesperson and served as Executive Director, significantly expanding their Zoo and Wildlife Division. After a failed attempt to retire in 2004, his passion and dedication to animal health and conservation led him to take on the Executive Director role at the American Association of Zoo Veterinarians, where he has served for the past 19 years. Dr. Hilsenroth has been a dedicated member of VMAE, regularly attending meetings and supporting his colleagues. He always is a friendly face at VMAE meetings and has wonderfully crazy stories to share. He is attempting to retire one more time – 20 years after his first attempt and we wish him a successful launch, but we will miss him.
2024 Best in Business – Under $750,000 Annual Budget
Financial Wellbeing and Money Mentoring Program
New York State VMS
The 2024 VMAE Best in Business Award for an Association with an Annual Budget Under $750,000 was presented to the New York State Veterinary Medical Society (NYSVMS) for its Financial Wellbeing and Money Mentoring Program.
The program grew out of strategic planning and research showing that many recent graduates did not view veterinary medical associations as relevant to their needs, while financial well-being ranked among their greatest concerns. NYSVMS responded by offering members personalized financial support through a fiduciary financial advisor.
The program combines self-guided education with one-on-one assistance addressing student loan repayment, budgeting, financial planning, and personal goals. At the time of the nomination, 73 members had completed the program and six more were participating. Of the 79 members reached, 27 joined NYSVMS specifically to access the program, and most were early-career veterinarians.
Participants reported reduced financial stress, greater confidence, and clearer plans for managing student loans and working toward their goals. The initiative has also increased engagement among recent graduates and strengthened NYSVMS’s relationships with regional associations and corporate partners.
VMAE congratulates NYSVMS on developing a responsive program that delivers meaningful support to members while investing in the association’s future.
2024 Best in Business – Over $750,000 Annual Budget
Certified Veterinary Assistant program
Texas VMA
The VMAE Best in Business Award for an Association with an Annual Budget Greater Than $750,000 was presented to the Texas Veterinary Medical Association (TVMA) for its Certified Veterinary Assistant program.
Recognizing the important role veterinary assistants play as members of the veterinary team, TVMA developed a comprehensive program that establishes clear standards for veterinary assisting and provides participants with a respected credential demonstrating their knowledge and competency.
The program has created significant value for both the veterinary profession and the association. In its first year, it generated more than $400,000 in net non-dues revenue for TVMA. Its reach has also extended beyond Texas through a licensing program serving veterinary communities in Colorado, Iowa, Georgia, Missouri, Ohio, and Delaware.
By strengthening professional standards, supporting the development of veterinary assistants, and creating a sustainable source of non-dues revenue, the Certified Veterinary Assistant program demonstrates how an association can develop an innovative program that benefits its members, the veterinary team, and the broader profession.
VMAE congratulates the Texas Veterinary Medical Association on this well-deserved recognition.