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Award Winners

NOMINATION DEADLINE:
April 15, 2025
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WSVMA Veterinarian of the Year

Dr. John Harris

Deer Park, WA
About the Award

Dr. John Harris has dedicated over 30 years to serving the Deer Park, Washington community with compassion, integrity, and excellence in veterinary medicine. Known for always putting patients and clients first, he continually seeks to grow as a clinician—most recently expanding his expertise to perform TPLO surgeries. A true servant leader, Dr. Harris mentors colleagues, educates clients with care and clarity, and uplifts those around him through his kindness and humility. Beyond the clinic, he supports local youth as a wrestling coach, 4-H and FFA sponsor, and volunteer veterinarian for regional fairs and rodeos. His unwavering dedication to service, education, and community exemplifies the highest ideals of the veterinary profession.

President's Award

Dr. Amber Itle & Dr. Kevin Snekvik

Olympia, WA / Pullman, WA
About the Award

Dr. Amber Itle and Dr. Kevin Snekvik exemplify collaboration, scientific leadership, and public service through their coordinated response to Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Washington State. Working jointly between the State Veterinarian’s Office and the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (WADDL), they implemented rapid, science-based strategies that protected the health of birds, livestock, wildlife, and people. Their partnership ensured early detection, swift containment, and transparent communication during a critical period for the state’s poultry and dairy industries. The success of their response stands as a model of interdepartmental cooperation and unwavering commitment to the safety of Washington’s animal and human populations.

Arnold C. Slater Legislator of the Year Award

Dr. Lisa Parshley

Olympia, WA
About the Award

Dr. Lisa Parshley is a State Representative Elect, Olympia City Councilmember, veterinarian, and community leader dedicated to building healthy, sustainable, and thriving 22nd District communities. A longtime co-owner of Olympia Veterinary Specialists, she now practices as a veterinary oncologist and advocates for public health, animal welfare, and environmental responsibility. Dr. Parshley holds a Ph.D. in biochemistry from Oregon Health Sciences University and earned her DVM from Colorado State University, later becoming a Board-Certified Oncologist at Michigan State University. On the Olympia City Council, she champions safety, affordability, and climate resilience through service on numerous committees. Her leadership in both medicine and public service embodies the veterinary oath and the spirit of ethical stewardship.

Distinguished Achievement Award

Dr. Jennifer Iwamoto

Outreach Team from the Office of Animal Welfare at the UW
About the Award

Dr. Iwamoto is a leader in advancing transparency, compassion, and ethical responsibility in animal research. Under her guidance, her team has transformed campus dialogue through outreach programs, educational sessions, and interactive events that promote understanding of animal welfare in science. Their work has strengthened trust among researchers, students, and the public while raising the standards of humane and ethical research practices. Known for her technical expertise, mentorship, and inclusive leadership, Dr. Iwamoto ensures that animal welfare remains central to scientific progress and continues to inspire a culture of accountability and compassion within the research community.

Outstanding Veterinary Service

Dr. Jennifer Bennet

Davis, CA
About the Award

Dr. Jennifer Bennett grew up in rural Northern California, where limited access to veterinary care inspired her passion for helping underserved communities. After graduate work in behavioral neuroscience at the University of Washington-Seattle, she earned her DVM from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2008. She practiced small animal, emergency, and farm medicine before becoming the first Medical Director for Lake County Animal Care & Control in 2013. Dr. Bennett went on to serve as Medical Director for the City of Seattle and later as Chief Veterinary Officer for the Humane Society of Tacoma & Pierce County. Now Director of Shelter Medicine Access to Care at UC Davis Koret Shelter Medicine Program, she continues to advance shelter medicine, mentorship, and low-barrier access to care.

WSU Faculty Member of the Year

Dr. Jessica Bunch

Pullman, WA
About the Award

Dr. Jessica Bunch graduated from Washington State University in 2002 and began her career as a mixed animal veterinarian before focusing on small animal practice in western Washington. Certified in canine physical rehabilitation since 2013, she later returned to WSU to develop the Integrative Veterinary Medicine Service, which she now leads. Dr. Bunch has advanced training in rehabilitation, acupuncture, and Chinese herbal therapies and is pursuing a residency in Canine Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation. A dedicated educator and mentor, she serves as Associate Chair for DVM Education Y4 and has led the American Association of Rehabilitation Veterinarians. Her excellence has been recognized with the John J. Sherman III Award and the Wescott Clinical Teaching Award.

Distinguished Veterinary Staff Award

Thea Leigh Lara

Pullman, WA
About the Award

Thea Leigh Lara is a nationally certified pharmacy technician at the Washington State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. With 18 years of pharmacy experience—spanning human and veterinary medicine—she is known for her reliability, expertise, and warm, collaborative spirit. Since joining the veterinary field six years ago, Thea has become an essential member of the hospital’s pharmacy team, supporting clients, pharmacists, and students alike. She plays a vital role in educating veterinary and pharmacy students, ensuring accuracy, safety, and understanding of medication protocols. Passionate about teaching and continual learning, Thea takes pride in mentoring students and contributing to the growth of future veterinarians through excellence, compassion, and dedication.

Humane Animal Welfare Award

Humane Society of Tacoma and Pierce County

Development and Marketing Team / Tacoma, WA
About the Award

The team includes:

Ashley Taulbee, Chief Philanthropy Officer,
Lindsey Haney, Director of Communications and Outreach,
Chloe Dubois, Director of Development,
Stefanie Cornell, Digital Marketing Manager,
Megan Tackett, Development Coordinator,
Lauren Green, Marketing Coordinator,
Sarah Jane Hoppe, Capital Campaign Manager, and
Shelby Kock Wah Ng, Donor Relations Manager.

Allied Industry Partner

Dawn Ipsen

Kusler’s and Clark’s Compounding Pharmacy
About the Award

Dr. Dawn Ipsen is the owner and pharmacist of Clark’s Compounding Pharmacy in Bellevue and Kusler’s Compounding Pharmacy in Snohomish. A University of Washington graduate, she earned her Doctorate of Pharmacy in 2001 and received the Dean’s Outstanding Service Award. Dedicated to advancing her profession, she serves as a Clinical Instructor at UW’s School of Pharmacy, Affiliate Faculty at Bastyr University, and a Pharmacist Preceptor for Washington State. Dr. Ipsen’s innovative approach includes developing shelf-stable, chicken-flavored gabapentin to improve medication compliance in animals. Honored with UW’s 2020 Distinguished Alumni Award for Excellence in Pharmacy Practice, she continues to inspire students, support veterinarians, and elevate patient care through her leadership and compassion.

Awards