Dan Grooms named to Vet Med dean post

Dan Grooms

Dan Grooms

Dan Grooms, professor and chair of the department of large animal clinical sciences at Michigan State University, East Lansing, has been appointed the next Stephen G. Juelsgaard Dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine. He will begin on Oct. 1.

"Dr. Grooms is an accomplished scientist, teacher and leader who will build on the college's reputation for excellence and the great achievements of our students, faculty and staff," said President Wendy Wintersteen. "I am confident he also will work effectively with veterinarians across the state, livestock and poultry producers and others who share our passion for animal and human health."

Grooms, an expert in bovine infectious diseases, joined the Michigan State faculty in 1997 and was promoted to his present position in 2014. He holds board certification from the American College of Veterinary Microbiologists with specialty in veterinary virology, is a former president of the American Association of Bovine Practitioners and has served on the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture's Committee on Animal Health.

Welcome

The university will host an informal reception for Grooms and his wife, Donna Grooms, on Thursday, Aug. 2 (11 a.m.-noon, Alumni Room, Vet Med). Members of the university community are welcome.

"The College of Veterinary Medicine plays a significant role in advancing animal well-being, from companion to production animals, as well as research that helps maintain the safety of our food supply and addresses society's most pressing human health challenges," Grooms said. "I am honored and excited for this opportunity to work alongside our talented team to deliver excellence in the teaching, research and service missions of the university and address important problems for our stakeholders globally."

Grooms visited campus in February to interview for the job. 

Grooms earned a bachelor's degree in animal science from Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, and two degrees from Ohio State University, Columbus -- a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and a Ph.D. in veterinary preventive medicine.

In making the announcement, senior vice president and provost Jonathan Wickert thanked interim dean Pat Halbur for his leadership and members of the search committee for their thoughtful consideration of candidates.