On Jan. 14, W. Ron DeHaven, DVM, MBA announced his plan to retire as CEO of the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA).  

A specific date has not been set; however, he will most likely remain at the AVMA’s helm until shortly after the AVMA’s annual convention this year, August 5-9. (His departure date may change if a new CEO is identified and begins employment sooner.)

DeHaven came to the AVMA after more than two decades of service with the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. He has guided the AVMA through periods of growth in both membership and influence. (The AVMA now has more than 88,000 members, and its advocacy efforts have resulted in a new level of national and international prominence.)

“I wanted to make a difference for the profession, because I’m passionate about veterinary medicine,” DeHaven said. “In my previous career, I felt I was able to make a difference in American agriculture, and this was an opportunity to make a difference in the veterinary profession.

“Together, we have faced a lot of challenges during what appears to be an ongoing period of transformational change for the profession. The need for a strong, national, umbrella organization is more important than ever, and I believe I will be leaving the AVMA well-positioned to serve in that role as the leading advocate for veterinary medicine.”

“The Board of Directors respectfully acknowledges Dr. DeHaven’s announcement of retirement and is grateful for the many years of dedicated service that he has brought to the AVMA,” said AVMA Board Chair John H. de Jong, DVM. “Ron’s retirement creates an opportunity for the Board to select a new CEO to continue the excellent work that he has started,” said.

DeHaven and his wife, Nancy, plan on spending as much time as possible visiting and enjoying time with family, including two children and four grandchildren.

Photo courtesy of the American Veterinary Medical Association