VetCat Insider | Fall 2025

Celebrating two distinguished careers The University of Arizona College of Veterinary Medicine community bid farewell to two esteemed faculty members who have made lasting contributions to our institution. Sharon Dial and Walt Klimecki retired after years of dedicated service, leaving behind a legacy of excellence in teaching, mentorship, and scholarship. Their commitment to students and colleagues alike has enriched our academic community, and while they will be greatly missed, we celebrate their remarkable careers and wish them well in this new chapter.

Dr. Sharon Dial

Dr. Sharon Dial’s career at the University of Arizona (U of A) began in 2000 as an Associate Research Scientist in the Department of Veterinary Science and Microbiology. Over the years, her contributions have been widely celebrated, earning her the Outstanding Service Award in 2005 and a promotion to Full Research Scientist with Continuing Status. Her leadership within the American Society of Veterinary Clinical Pathologists further underscored her commitment to the profession, where she received the Service Award and held key roles between 2004 and 2019, including Chair of the Education Committee, Chair of the Shared Resources Task Force, and Chair of the Mid-Career Excellence Award Committee. More than a passionate scientist, Dr. Dial is a dedicated educator and mentor whose influence on veterinary education is immeasurable. As a founding faculty member of the College of Veterinary Medicine, she played a pivotal role in shaping the foundational curriculum and fostering a thriving learning community. Her impact was recognized in 2023 when she received the Educational Service Award from the Regional Teaching Academy, a consortium of Western Region Colleges of Veterinary Medicine, for her outstanding contributions to teaching

VETCAT INSIDER

59

Made with FlippingBook interactive PDF creator