Under the leadership of President Rob Pierce, the IVMA recently adopted a new focus on its work and advocacy for veterinarians and the veterinary profession in Idaho.
Beginning in February and culminating at the 2026 Mountain West Veterinary Conference in Coeur d’Alene, President Pierce and the IVMA Board of Directors discussed and ultimately voted to refresh its priorities and engage more veterinarians through leadership opportunities.
At its June meeting, the IVMA Board voted to adopt new Mission and Vision statements.
The Mission statement reads, “To advocate for and support veterinary professionals through legislative leadership, continuing education, and unified representation, advancing animal welfare, and protecting public health.”
The Vision statement reads, “To shape a future where veterinary medicine is trusted, respected, and empowered to safeguard animals, strengthen communities, and protect public health.”
In addition, the Board voted to create four committees addressing priority areas of the association’s work based on the guidance of the newly adopted Mission and Vision statements.
The four new committees and their objectives are:
Membership Engagement
Driving membership and participation by identifying beneficial, educational, and social opportunities that fulfil the professional development of Idaho’s veterinary profession. The committee’s new chair is IVMA president elect Dr. Maggie Acker-Buck (Ketchum).
Student Engagement
Focusing on activities and programs to engage and support the student veterinary population, to enhance and encourage membership with the IVMA, and to strengthen the IVMA’s advocacy efforts by representing a broader demographic. The chair position is currently vacant, but several members have committed to serving on the committee.
Legislative Advocacy
Central to the IVMA’s new Mission Statement is advocacy for the issues and priorities critical to Idaho’s veterinary profession. Chaired by IVMA past president Dr. Alicia Ewing (Fruitland), the committee will deliberate legislative matters and provide recommendations to the IVMA Board of Directors.
Conference Planning
The annual Mountain West Veterinary Conference is a major undertaking to plan and implement. This new committee allows for diverse input and collaboration to ultimately produce an annual program attracting the best speakers sharing intriguing and relevant topics, while providing a fun experience for attendees. The IVMA president will chair this committee.
If IVMA members are interested in serving on any of the new committees, please email director@ivma.org.