Recognizing Excellence in Veterinary and Biomedical Education
The Regional Teaching Academy (RTA) is proud to celebrate educators who are advancing teaching and learning across our institutions. Each year, the RTA Steering Committee presents three awards honoring outstanding contributions in educational innovation, service, and scholarship.
These awards align with the RTA’s mission to develop, implement, and sustain best practices in veterinary and biomedical education.
Award Cycle
Who is eligible?
Faculty at any RTA institution, including non-RTA fellows, are eligible for nomination.
What do recipients receive?
Each awardee receives:
- $500 prize
- A letter of recognition
- A certificate presented in person at the RTA Summer Biennial Conference
Awards Categories:
1. Educational Excellence and Innovation
For individuals who have developed and implemented innovative strategies that enhance student learning.
2. Educational Service
For individuals who have significantly impacted veterinary and biomedical education by facilitating, supporting, or instituting best practices and policies at the local, regional, or national level.
3. Educational Scholarship
For individuals who have advanced educational practice through pedagogical research or by sharing novel teaching resources.
Nomination & Selection Process
Phase 1: Nomination Letters (Due November 15)
Submit a one-page nomination letter detailing:
- Significance of their work
- The nominee’s contributions
- Their impact on education
Email to: r.halsey@wsu.edu
Phase 2: Nominee Materials (Due February 14)
Selected nominees will be invited to submit:
- A brief personal statement
- Supporting documents relevant to the award category
Rubric: Innovation, Scholarship & Service Rubrics (link each rubric)
Awards Announced: March 14, 2027
Recognition: During the 2027 RTA Summer Biennial Conference
Past Award Recipients
2025 Awardees
- Educational Innovation:
Sarah Guess, DVM, MS, DACVIM (SAIM) – Washington State University - Educational Service:
Philip Mixter, PhD – Washington State University - Educational Scholarship:
Jeffrey R. Abbott, DVM, PhD, DACVP – Washington State University
2024 Awardees
- Educational Innovation:
Jeffrey R. Abbott, DVM, PhD, DACVP – Washington State University - Educational Service:
Leslie Sprunger, DVM, PhD – Washington State University - Educational Scholarship:
Ryane E. Englar, DVM, DABVP (Canine and Feline Practice) – University of Arizona
2023 Awardees
- Educational Innovation:
Allison Zwingenberger, DVM, DACVR, DECVDI, MAS – University of California, Davis - Educational Service:
Sharon Dial, PhD, DVM – University of Arizona - Educational Scholarship:
Erika Offerdahl, PhD – Washington State University