(May 7, 2009 Stillwater, OK) – The Oklahoma State University Center for Veterinary Health Sciences recently held its Annual Awards Banquet. Among those honored was Dr. Jim Lish, assistant professor, Physiological Sciences Department. Lish received the Pfizer Distinguished Teacher Award.

For 8 years, Lish has shared his love of veterinary medicine. He teaches first year veterinary students anatomy and second and third year students avian biology in an elective course. The Pfizer Distinguished Teacher Award recognizes his dedication to preparing the next generation of veterinarians and advancing veterinary medical education.

“I was shocked,” says Lish. “This is the second time I have received the Pfizer Award. I have a 9-month teaching appointment at the veterinary center. I really like it.”

Lish was also selected as the Outstanding Instructor in the Year 1 Curriculum. The Class of 2012 cast a ballot vote for their top three teachers and Lish received the most votes.

“What I think leads to so much of Dr. Lish’s success as a teacher is the support and confidence he gives his students,” says Emma Ryan, Class of 2012. “On top of that, he puts in considerable time outside of class holding review sessions or going one-on-one with students until it is clear they understand a topic. That level of patience is really impressive.”

“Dr. Lish took the time, even before the semester began, to learn everyone’s name and throughout this semester, he has taken the time to get to know each one of us,” adds Kimberly Jungermann, Class of 2012. “It really shows that he cares about us. I’m proud to know him and to have had the opportunity to learn from him.”

Lish has received numerous teaching awards including the 2007 Regents Distinguished Teaching Award.
“I have been teaching eight years and seven out of the eight, I have received the year 1 instructor award,” he smiles. “I am proud of the Class of 2012. They are very cooperative and I really enjoy them.”

The Oklahoma State University Center for Veterinary Health Sciences is one of 28 veterinary colleges in the United States and is fully accredited by the Council on Education of the American Veterinary Medical Association. The center’s Boren Veterinary Medial Teaching Hospital is open to the public and provides routine and specialized care for small and large animals. It also offers 24 hour emergency care and is certified by the American Animal Hospital Association. For more information, visit www.cvhs.okstate.edu or call (405) 744-7000.

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