Annette O'Connor named dean of College of Veterinary Medicine
Following a national search, the Office of the Provost has named Annette O'Connor the next dean of Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine. She brings years of internationally recognized experience as she steps into the role effective Aug. 2.
O'Connor has built her career serving science, society, animals and higher education by connecting research to real-world practice and impact and training the next generation of leaders in veterinary science, animal health and public health.
O'Connor will serve as the college’s chief academic and administrative officer, leading its academic work, research efforts and service to the state. She will work closely with the campus community and partners across Kansas to keep the college moving forward while continuing to build on the university’s Next-Gen K-State strategic plan.
"Dr. O'Connor brings a thoughtful, student-centered approach to leadership," said Provost and Executive Vice President Jesse Perez Mendez. "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 will focus on strengthening professional and graduate programs, supporting research and community engagement and enhancing services that connect the college to the veterinary profession and communities across Kansas. She will work to build partnerships with industry and practitioners so the college remains responsive to evolving needs in animal, public and population health.
"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 has served in senior leadership roles at Michigan State University's College of Veterinary Medicine, including senior associate dean for faculty and administrative affairs, interim associate dean for student engagement and success, department chair and interim hospital director.
An internationally recognized researcher and teacher in veterinary epidemiology, O'Connor has authored more than 200 peer-reviewed publications, has more than 20 years of experience teaching in professional, graduate and peer programs and has contributed to global collaborations advancing animal and public health. She began her career as a practicing beef cattle veterinarian in Australia and spent time in Canada as a dairy veterinarian before moving into research and higher education, bringing a perspective shaped by both clinical work, teaching and research. Today, her work focuses on translating research into practice to improve outcomes in veterinary medicine, food safety and population health.
She earned her bachelor's degree in veterinary science from the University of Sydney, her master's degree in farm animal production from the University of Queensland and her doctorate in ruminant health from the University of Guelph. She is also a fellow of the Australian College of Veterinary Scientists in epidemiology.