Roy Schultz, Avoca, IA, swine veterinarian, was named recipient of the 2012 William P. Switzer Award in Veterinary Medicine. The award was established in 1998 to recognize exemplary individuals who have made significant contributions to the enhancement of Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine.
Throughout his 50-year career, Schultz has stood out among a very elite cadre of swine veterinarians who have established themselves through education, hard work and outstanding service to the profession and the industry.
Schultz is a world-recognized authority on the pathogen Actinobacillus pleuropneumonia in growing swine. His groundbreaking discoveries for cultivation and the characterization of the organism and his efforts in diagnostic testing improvements have led to the prevention and control of this once- devastating disease.
His commitment to the college and its alumni has been evidenced through his support of educational programs and mentorship of numerous veterinary students and new graduates. He has been a resource for practical information and solutions for several generations of veterinarians.
A charter member of the American Association of Swine Veterinarians, Schultz has served as its president and been the recipient of many of its awards, including the prestigious Heritage Award for lifetime achievements in swine medicine.
He was named one of the 50 innovators in pork production by National Hog Farmer magazine in 2000 and one of 10 Pork Masters in 2007.
He is a former recipient of the college's Stange Award for Meritorious Service.
Schultz is a 1960 graduate of the Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine. He received his MS from Iowa State in 1981.
Now retired, Schultz continues his efforts as a conservationist. He is the co-founder of the Foundation for North American Wild Sheep, a nonprofit conservation organization. Through his efforts, more than $75 million has been raised and the population of wild sheep has expanded from 40,000 to over 250,000 in the 30 years of the project.