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Former Canadian Veterinary Medical Association CEO Recognized with Honourary Membership for Significant Contributions to the Veterinary Profession
June 27, 2024
Calgary, Alta. – Mr. Jost am Rhyn was awarded Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) Honourary Membership during the Annual CVMA Awards Gala on June 26 for his significant contributions to the national veterinary profession.
Mr. am Rhyn, a business administration and economics graduate, brought a wealth of experience to his role at the CVMA. His leadership is well established with 38 years in executive governance positions at national non-profit organizations in both Switzerland and Canada. Notably, he dedicated over 21 years as CEO of the CVMA and as the National Examining Board Registrar.
“Mr. am Rhyn was a distinguished leader of the Canadian veterinary profession, guiding the CVMA through many changes in the veterinary landscape throughout his tenure as CEO. His fair, just, and calm approach to all matters allowed for improved collective decision-making,” explains Dr. Chris Bell, CVMA Past-President. “He served as a mentor for many Council and Executive members and guided staff through many challenges during his more than two decades as the CEO, including the dramatic effects of a global pandemic and advances in workplace culture.”
Mr. am Rhyn has been instrumental in fostering collaboration among various provincial, federal, and international stakeholders, including veterinarians, researchers, policy-makers, and industry leaders. His tireless efforts have successfully influenced legislation and policies that have enhanced the protection and well-being of animals, people, and their environments in Canada.
He fostered relationships with important international groups, including the American Veterinary Medical Association, International Veterinary Officers Coalition, World Organization for Animal Health, World Small Animal Veterinary Association, and the World Veterinary Association, among many others.
“He was always the ultimate diplomat, earning the greatest respect from others within the profession both nationally and internationally due to his humble nature and communication skills, combined with his knowledge and commitment to the veterinary profession,” says Dr. Louis Kwantes, current National Examining Board Chair and CVMA Past-President. “He has an uncanny ability to home in on the heart of the matter in discussions, yet also be respectful of others, always caring about the people he knows and meets.”
CVMA Honourary Membership is presented to an individual who has rendered distinguished service to the profession.
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The Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) is the national and international voice for Canada’s veterinarians, providing leadership and advocacy for veterinary medicine. Each year, the CVMA proudly recognizes individuals and groups for their outstanding contribution to veterinary medicine. Visit canadianveterinarians.net to learn more about the CVMA.
Contact:
Ashley Dupont
Communications Officer
Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA)
613-236-1162 ext. 125
adupont@cvma-acmv.org