E-Insight

August 2006

Dr. Bernard Rollin Receives Ethics Award

Dr. Bernard Rollin, a Colorado State University Distinguished Professor with appointments in the Departments of Philosophy, Biomedical Sciences, and Animal Sciences, has received the Robert R. Shomer Award for Achievement in Veterinary Medical Ethics from the Society of Veterinary Medical Ethics.

Dr. Rollin was presented with the award during the American Veterinary Medical Association’s annual conference in July. The award is dedicated to the memory of Dr. Robert Shomer who was co-founder and the first president of the Society for Veterinary Medical Ethics. Selection criteria for the award includes: leadership and advocacy in local, regional, national and/or international veterinary ethics; scholarship in the field of veterinary ethics; evidence of good character; and a history of inspiring students and/or members of the veterinary profession.

“Colorado State University and the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences have been incredibly fortunate to have Dr. Rollin with us as a leader in animal ethics and as University Bioethicist,” said Dr. Lance Perryman, Dean of the College. “Over the years, his guidance has led not only this College and Colorado State University to enhanced animal care and ethics, he has been a world leader in the practical application of animal welfare to agriculture, research and education.”

Dr. Rollin taught the first-ever course in veterinary medical ethics, which has been a required part of the veterinary curriculum at CSU since 1978. He was a pioneer in reforming animal use in surgery teaching and laboratory exercises in veterinary colleges and was principal architect of the 1985 federal legislation dealing with the welfare of experimental animals. He has lectured and consulted extensively around the world on animal ethics, genetic engineering, animal pain, animal research, animal agriculture, veterinary ethics and other topics in bioethics and philosophy.

During his career, to date, he has authored more than 300 papers and 14 books, including Animal Rights and Human Morality. He has received many honors and awards including being named to the College’s Glover Gallery as a Distinguished Faculty member and the Brownlee Award for Outstanding Achievement in Animal Welfare.