At the recent Center for Veterinary Health Sciences Awards Banquet, Kira Kautz, Class of 2007, was named the Dean Clarence H. McElroy Award recipient.

Kira Kautz Receives Highest Veterinary Honor

At the recent Center for Veterinary Health Sciences Awards Banquet, Kira Kautz, Class of 2007, was named the Dean Clarence H. McElroy Award recipient.



“The McElroy Award is the most prestigious award bestowed on graduates of the OSU College of Veterinary Medicine,” explains Dr. Michael Lorenz, Professor and Dean for the Veterinary Center. “The recipient is selected by ballots of faculty and fourth year students. The award is based on high academic achievement, leadership and outstanding clinical proficiency.”

Kautz is a native of the Great Plains. She has been on the Dean’s Honor Roll several times. She is actively involved in several student organizations and as been an Ambassador for the Veterinary Center. She volunteered at Tulsa State Fair and Highland Park Elementary School and is the Class of 2007 representative.

“As Dr. Lorenz read the description and he said that the recipient always wanted to be a ‘betterinarian,’ my heart dropped, the tears welled in my eyes and I was instantly humbled,” says Kautz. “I am so honored to be the recipient. Not only have I achieved my goal of becoming a veterinarian, I have done it in a wonderful program with fantastic people surrounding me. The faculty in this school is so phenomenal and I couldn’t ask for better classmates and friends. I am truly blessed.”

Kautz is originally from North Platte, Neb., and plans to enter private practice there. She will be the third veterinarian in a mixed animal practice in her hometown and will be working mostly on equine cases along with some bovine and small animal cases.

When asked how she chose Oklahoma State University, Kautz explained that when communicating with the College, the people made her feel at ease with the application process, which can be daunting.

“When my grandpa and I came to visit, everyone was so helpful and really went out of their way to make us feel welcome,” she says. “The faculty is very encouraging and helpful. The opportunity to communicate with and bond with some of the most intelligent people around is one of the greatest things about this school.”

Kautz encourages anyone considering a career in veterinary medicine to get as much experience as possible. She recommends volunteering at clinics, zoos, shelters—anywhere that will provide you with experience.

“Research the various veterinary colleges to make sure they offer programs you are interested in,” says Kautz. “Look at veterinary medicine and the opportunities that the degree opens up for students. There are so many aspects of veterinary medicine.”