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Story contact: Rachel Becker, CVMMarCom@missouri.edu
Photos by Karen Clifford
Each year, the Dean’s Impact Awards shine a spotlight on the people who go above and beyond to strengthen the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine. Selected by Dean Srinand Sreevatsan from nominations submitted by faculty and staff, this year’s recipients exemplify the dedication, innovation and service that move the college forward.
Meet the 2026 honorees:
Faculty Award: Doug Bowles, PhD
Doug Bowles, PhD, a professor and former chair of the Department of Biomedical Sciences, has made a lasting impact on the college through his mentorship, scholarship and commitment to advancing research and education. During his tenure as chair, Bowles strengthened the department’s research and teaching missions while helping guide continued growth in research productivity and National Institutes of Health funding.
Colleagues praised Bowles for his strategic planning, thoughtful hiring decisions and hands-on approach. Even while serving in administration, he continued advancing his own cardiovascular research program and earned an NIH-R01 grant. His ability to balance leadership responsibilities with mentorship, teaching and scientific discovery distinguished him as a respected leader within the college and across the university.
Bowles continues supporting faculty and staff through mentorship, university service and leadership roles in Faculty Senate and numerous campus committees. Nominators noted that his calm, steady leadership and commitment to listening to others foster an environment where faculty and staff feel supported and empowered to succeed.
“Doug consistently demonstrates calm and steadfast leadership, setting an example for thoughtful, detail-oriented leadership within the team,” one nominator wrote. “His approach fosters a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and capable of contributing their best work.”
Staff Award: Mariangely Torres Rodriguez, RVTg
Mariangely Torres Rodriguez, RVTg, staff manager for the Veterinary Health Center’s Small Animal Emergency and Critical Care (SAECC) service, has helped shape a collaborative, supportive environment for students, staff and clinicians alike. As the service’s first staff manager, she has played a key role in strengthening team morale, supporting student training and improving daily operations.
Colleagues praised Torres Rodriguez for balancing operational efficiency with a people-first approach. She has identified cost-effective ways to support the SAECC service, organized pre-clinical training opportunities for veterinary students and played an active role in mentoring and supporting staff members. Nominators also highlighted her ability to build consensus, foster collaboration and create a positive workplace culture.
Beyond her direct responsibilities, Torres Rodriguez contributes to departmental committees and is frequently sought out by faculty for her insight and problem-solving abilities. Her commitment to continuous growth and investment in others has earned widespread respect throughout the Veterinary Health Center and the broader college community.
“Mariangely is deeply committed to strengthening our team and supporting the people around her,” one nominator wrote. “She is always working to grow as a leader, and it shows in the way she mentors others, builds trust and leads by example. She is a dedicated staff member and someone junior team members naturally look up to.”
External Award: Steve Strubberg, DVM
Steve Strubberg, DVM, has dedicated his career to advancing animal health and supporting Missouri’s agricultural communities through decades of veterinary service and public leadership. A 1989 graduate of the Mizzou College of Veterinary Medicine, Strubberg spent nearly 30 years as owner of Herman Veterinary Clinic, a mixed animal practice in Hermann, Missouri, before being named Missouri state veterinarian in 2019.
In his role with the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s Animal Health Division, Strubberg oversees statewide efforts focused on disease prevention, surveillance and response programs that help safeguard livestock health and support producers across Missouri. Colleagues and industry partners have praised his collaborative approach, practical perspective and steady leadership during complex animal health challenges.
Drawing on decades of experience in mixed animal medicine, Strubberg brings both technical expertise and compassion to his work with veterinarians, producers and communities throughout the state. His commitment to strengthening animal health programs and supporting Missouri agriculture has earned widespread respect across the veterinary profession.
“Dr. Strubberg exemplifies the kind of veterinarian our college strives to develop — someone who combines clinical excellence, public service and a deep commitment to the communities they serve,” Dean Srinand Sreevatsan said. “From private practice to statewide leadership, his work has strengthened animal health across Missouri and reinforced the critical role veterinarians play in protecting agriculture, public health and the people who depend on both.”
2026 milestone years of service honorees
5 years
- Ravi Barabote Pathobiology and Integrative Biomedical Sciences
- Katelin Dark Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Nick Howser CVM IT
- June Kelly Dean’s Office
- Alexandra Knutson Pathobiology and Integrative Biomedical Sciences
- Colondra Malveaux Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Eric Mathis Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory
- Laura Nafe Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Chandra Rivera Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Megan Smith Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Jennifer Terrock Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Belinda Tedder Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Taylor Tynes Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Alexandra Warren Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Christine Zhang Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory
10 years
- Amie Burling Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Rebecca Dorfmeyer Pathobiology and Integrative Biomedical Sciences
- Elizabeth Easley Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Mike Glascock Dean’s Office
- Lynn Martin Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Jodi Matheson Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Marie Schlup Pathobiology and Integrative Biomedical Sciences
- Aida Vientós-Plotts Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
15 years
- Alex Bukoski Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Kevin Lunceford Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Charles Maitz Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
20 years
- Karla Driskill Dean’s Office
- David Kline Pathobiology and Integrative Biomedical Sciences
- Kacey Lundy Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Shelly Nail Pathobiology and Integrative Biomedical Sciences
- Scott Poock Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Janice Seagraves CVM Advancement
25 years
- Chastidy Bailey Pathobiology and Integrative Biomedical Sciences
- Brenda Beerntsen Pathobiology and Integrative Biomedical Sciences
- Kimberly Bussard Dean’s Office
- Thomas Childs Pathobiology and Integrative Biomedical Sciences
- Sheryl Cullina Dean’s Office
- Jennifer Hamilton Dean’s Office
- Alison LaCarrubba Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
- Tonya Mueller CVM IT
30 years
- Michael Calcutt Pathobiology and Integrative Biomedical Sciences
- John Dodam Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
35 years
- Kevin Keegan Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
40 years
- Priscilla Foster Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
45 years
- Jimmy Lattimer Veterinary Medicine and Surgery
The individuals on this list represent milestone service anniversaries between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2026