PULLMAN, Wash. – Kevin Snekvik, clinical associate professor in the Washington State University Department of Veterinary Microbiology and Pathology (VMP), has been named the first Ed McLeary Distinguished Professor in Aquatic Health. The professorship enhances programs in fish health research, diagnostics, certification and graduate education.
“Kevin is a relatively junior faculty member, but he has taken on national responsibilities and serves in leadership positions on many national committees,” said David Prieur, department chair. “His peers in the fish health arena value his knowledge, insights and judgments.”
Snekvik is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists. He is head of the aquatic animal health section of the Washington Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory (WADDL) in the College of Veterinary Medicine.
The fish health program, a collaboration between VMP and WADDL, was created 15 years ago to independently confirm fish health status at aquaculture facilities in Washington for export out of the state. Snekvik and his staff work with state, national and international regulators to ensure the timely interstate and international movement of aquaculture products.
| About the gift The Ed McLeary Distinguished Professorship in Aquatic Animal Health is a unified effort among Pacific Northwest aquaculture producers to ensure healthful fisheries that can compete in any of the world’s marketplaces and contribute to enhanced sport fishing.
Troutlodge, founded in 1945 by Ed McLeary and Ken Drew, pledged a lead gift to match dollar-for-dollar all gifts up to $250,000 and position WSU to become a national leader in the field.
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The program has expanded to include certification testing and disease diagnosis in freshwater and marine facilities throughout the western United States.
“This award not only recognizes the role we have played in ensuring fish health but also highlights the need for the program to expand its research and establish training of the next generation of fish disease experts,” said Snekvik, who specializes in veterinary pathology and fish infectious disease.
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