Equine veterinarian Susan Holcombe, VMD, MS, PhD, Dipl. ACVS, Dipl. ACVECC, a professor in the Michigan State University (MSU) Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, has been selected as "Teacher of the Year" by the DVM class of 2014. She joined the faculty of MSU College of Veterinary Medicine (CVM) in 1994.

At the end of their pre-clinical coursework, third-year DVM students elect a professor they believe best models excellence in teaching. Three cohorts of students–2012, 2013, and now 2014–have selected Holcombe for the honor.

"Dr. Holcombe really fosters an enthusiasm about learning," says Jamie Douglass of the class of 2014. "She encourages curiosity by being positive and supportive–and really embodying the idea that there is no stupid question. I learned the material, and beyond that, I acquired an approach to learning I will carry with me."

Coretta Cosby Patterson, DVM, Dipl. ACVIM, assistant professor and associate dean for professional academic programs and student affairs, says Holcombe receives high praise from colleagues and from students: "We know that when students are engaged emotionally as well as intellectually, they really learn how to learn. What I hear from students is that when Dr. Holcombe walks into the room, it is like a warm hug