Kansas State announced that Annette O’Connor will serve as the next College of Veterinary Medicine dean on April 22. Effective Aug. 2, O’Connor will serve as the college’s chief academic administrative officer and work with the university to advance the Next-Gen K-State strategic plan. 

According to a press release, provost and executive vice president Jesse Perez Mendez is optimistic about the new dean. 

“Dr. O’Connor brings a thoughtful, student-centered approach to leadership,” Mendez said in the press release. “Her experience across the academic enterprise, along with her commitment to collaboration and partnership, will help the College of Veterinary Medicine continue its impact in Kansas and beyond.”

As dean, O’Connor hopes to focus on supporting research and enhancing hands-on learning experiences that connect students to the veterinary profession and communities across the state.

“K-State is an exemplary land-grant institution with a global reputation for leadership in infectious disease and animal health research, outstanding graduates and responsive and relevant clinical and diagnostic services,” O’Connor said. “I am excited to advance training, research and outreach programs that support students, livestock producers, companion animal owners and the broader community, while building on the college’s strengths in research, clinical and diagnostic service and education.”

O’Connor is currently a professor of epidemiology and serves in senior leadership roles at Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.