Harold Schott, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, professor of large animal clinical sciences at the Michigan State University College of Veterinary Medicine, has received the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Distinguished Educator – Academic Award for his contributions to the field of equine internal medicine and substantial influence in the training of veterinary students, interns, and residents.

The Distinguished Educator – Academic Award recognizes an individual who by his or her actions and commitment has demonstrated a significant impact on the development and training of equine practitioners. Schott received the award Nov. 21 during the President’s Luncheon at the AAEP’s 68th Annual Convention, in San Antonio, Texas. 

Schott received his veterinary degree from The Ohio State University in 1984. Following three years in private practice in California, he pursued a residency in equine internal medicine and a PhD in equine renal physiology at Washington State University, where he stayed on as an assistant professor from 1991 until joining the faculty at Michigan State University in 1995. Through his research, Schott has contributed to practitioners’ ability to diagnose and treat equine renal disease and expanded the practical body of knowledge of electrolyte and fluid physiology of the horse. He has disseminated his expertise in over 120 peer-reviewed publications, 40 book chapters, and countless invited talks. 

Since entering academia, Schott has trained thousands of veterinary students; mentored 27 graduate students and 22 equine internal medicine residents preparing for board certification; and participated in the training of numerous interns and surgery residents. Throughout his career he has instated and organized multiple continuing education programs, including a 40-hour equine lectures and labs seminar for visiting veterinary students from Japan, as well as “LAIM Bootcamp,” an annual hands-on training and networking opportunity for large animal internal medicine residents within the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.

His educational outreach also includes development and establishment of continued funding for a yearly “Equitarian Clerkship” to Veracruz, Mexico, in which veterinary students help administer care for underserved working equid populations, receive mentorship from experienced practitioners, and are inspired to continue giving back to help change lives.