Archbald honored for commitment to minority veterinary student education

Louis F. Archbald, a professor of theriogenology in the UF College of Veterinary Medicine, has won a national award for his commitment to minority veterinary student education.

The American Association of Veterinary Medical Colleges’ committee on multicultural affairs bestows the honor, known as the Iverson Bell Award, every two years in honor of an individual who has demonstrated significant achievement on behalf of minority veterinary students.

Dean Joseph A. DiPietro of the UF College of Veterinary Medicine nominated Archbald for the award.

A diplomat in the American College of Theriogenologists, Archbald is associate chair of the UF veterinary school’s department of large animal clinical sciences. He also is the school’s graduate studies coordinator.

Archbald has served as director of multicultural and special programs since 1990. He also coordinates graduate studies for the college.

Archbald joined the faculty at UF in 1984, when he was hired as assistant dean for clinical services and chief-of-staff of the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. In addition, he directed the college’s minority program until 1990.

Dr. Iverson Bell practiced small animal medicine in Indiana, lectured at Tuskegee and Purdue Universities and took leadership roles in the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, and the American Veterinary Medical Association.

“Dr. Archbald has been a wonderful role model, leader, advocate and counselor to minority students, graduate students and post docs throughout his career,” DiPietro said.