E-Insight

December 2003

Faculty Honors and Awards

Dr. Christopher Orton

Dr. Christopher Orton, a Professor in the Department of Clinical Sciences, was recently honored with the Oliver P. Pennock Distinguished Service Award. The award recognize five or more years of continuing meritorious and outstanding achievement by regular, full-time faculty members or administrative professionals. The award program was established as a tribute to Professor Oliver Pennock, who served as a Distinguished Professor of Civil Engineering in the 1920s.

Dr. Orton started the first veterinary open-heart surgery program in the world at Colorado State. Today, the open-heart program he developed is one of only two globally, and he is considered the leading authority in veterinary cardiovascular surgery. His research has led to five patents for the design of artificial heart valves and methods of implantation, treatment and use. Dr. Orton also has been consistently recognized for his innovative teaching and interaction with students. Since joining Colorado State in 1983, he has lectured in more than 23 courses and coordinated several graduate and professional veterinary medicine courses. He currently coordinates the cardiology and respiratory medicine core course for sophomore students.

Dr Orton, who is one of five Pennock recipients this year, received a commemorative plaque and monetary award at the Distinguished Awards Ceremony held Nov. 20 at the Lory Student Center.