Dr. Tom Burkgren, Executive Director, American Association of Swine Veterinarians
Dr. Burkgren is the Executive Director of the American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV). He provides analysis and advocacy on issues related to the practice of swine medicine. Further, he develops public policy and manages the business affairs of the AASV. Dr. Burkgren received his DVM from Iowa State University in 1980 and his MBA from Drake University in 1989. His practice experience includes mixed animal practice as well as exclusive swine practice.
Dr. John Deen, Professor, University of Minnesota
Dr. Deen is a professor in veterinary epidemiology at the College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Minnesota. His work in research, teaching and extension has been in welfare, epidemiology and economics, focusing on measurement and optimization across competing needs in pig farming. He provides training to farmers, veterinarians, and veterinary students at the University of Minnesota as well as through international programs. Dr. Deen is also project lead with USAID in reducing the threats of spread of disease from animals to humans, particularly in central Africa and southeast Asia. He earned his DVM and PhD from the University of Guelph and gained board certification in swine health management from the American College of Veterinary Practitioners in 1994.
Dr. Lisa Tokach, Veterinary Clinician, Abilene Animal Hospital
Dr. Tokach is a veterinary clinician in general practice at Abilene Animal Hospital, PA. She specializes in swine population medicine. Dr. Tokach is also the personnel director for AAHPA and serves ans the President of Kansas Swine Alliance, Inc. In 2001, she was appointed as a diplomat in swine health management to the American Board of Veterinary Practitioners, which was renewed in 2011. Dr. Tokach currently serves on the Animal Welfare Committee for the American Veterinary Medical Association and the Pig Welfare Committee for the American Association of Swine Veterinarians.
Dr. Rexanne Struve, Lead Veterinarian, Struve Labs, Inc.
Dr. Struve operates her full-time practice, Veterinary Associates of Manning, in conjunction with operation of the Specific Pathogen Free (SPF) pig-rearing laboratory, Struve Labs, Inc. She has wide experience and expertise in rural practice and the implementation of the SPF program in large corporate facilities. Dr. Struve has presented extensively to colleges and pre-veterinary clubs and is also involved in mentoring veterinary students attending state universities in Iowa, Kansas and Oklahoma. She received her DVM from Kansas State University in 1976.
Dr. Glen Almond, Professor, North Carolina State University
Dr. Almond is a professor of Pig Health and Production at North Carolina State University, where he joined the faculty in 1987 as a graduate research assistant while completing his PhD. He received his doctorate in veterinary medicine and master’s degree from the Ontario Veterinary College, Guelph, Canada. Prior to receiving his doctorate, he was a food animal practitioner in Alberta, Canada. Dr. Almond’s research has focused on reproductive physiology, urogenital disease and interactions between disease and growth. Teaching commitments include veterinary, graduate and undergraduate courses. As coordinator of a senior swine medicine course, he has provided educational opportunities for students from 12 veterinary colleges and six countries.