VMP Clinical Associate Professor Awarded the First Ed McLeary Distinguished Professorship

Dr. Kevin Snekvik, clinical associate professor in the Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology department (VMP), has been named the first Ed McLeary Distinguished Professor in Aquatic Health. The Ed McLeary Distinguished Professorship enhances WSU programs in fish health research, diagnostics, certification, and graduate education. Dr Snekvik, DVM, Ph.D is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists and the Aquatic Animal Health section head for the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (WADDL).
 
“It is an honor to be recognized in this way,” said Dr. Snekvik, who specializes in veterinary pathology and fish infectious disease. “This award not only recognizes the role we have played in ensuring fish health but also highlights the need for the fish health program to expand its current fish disease research and to establish the training of the next generation of fish disease experts.”
 
The fish health program, a collaborative effort between the VMP and WADDL, was created 15 years ago to independently confirm the fish health status at aquaculture facilities in Washington for export out of the state.  Since that time the program has expanded to include certification testing and disease diagnosis in freshwater and marine facilities throughout the western United States.  Dr. Snekvik and his staff also work with state, national, and international regulators to ensure the timely interstate and international movement of aquaculture products.
 
“Based on the current needs of the regional aquaculture producers, the awarded funds from the Ed McLeary Distinguished Professorship will be used to support the research and pathology training of graduate students and post-DVM anatomic pathology residents to better understand fish diseases and in turn enhance the health of fish,” said Dr. Snekvik.  
 
The Ed McLeary Distinguished Professorship in Aquatic Animal Health is a unified effort among Pacific Northwest aquaculture producers to ensure healthful fisheries that can compete in any of the world’s marketplaces and contribute to enhanced sport fishing. Troutlodge, founded in 1945 by Ed Mcleary and Ken Drew, pledged a lead gift to match dollar-for-dollar all gifts up to a total of $250,000.  This generosity established the Ed McLeary Distinguished Professorship in Aquatic Animal Health, a very prestigious professorship that positions WSU to become a national leader in this field.
 
“Kevin is a relatively junior faculty member, but he has taken on national responsibilities and serves in leadership positions on many national committees,” said Dr. David Prieur, chair of the department. “His peers in the fish health arena value his knowledge, insights, and judgments.”