Littleton, Colo.-based equine veterinarian Terry Swanson, DVM received the American Association of Equine Practitioners’ (AAEP) Distinguished Educator – Mentor Award in honor of his lasting impact on the profession through mentorship of countless interns and visiting veterinarians over the 57 years of activity of Littleton Equine Medical Center’s intern program.

The Distinguished Educator – Mentor Award honors an individual who, by his or her actions and commitment, has demonstrated a significant impact on the development and training of equine practitioners through mentoring. Dr. Swanson received the award during the Dec. 10 President’s Luncheon at the AAEP’s 65th Annual Convention in Denver, Colo.

“Dr. Swanson leads us all by his excellent example in life and career. His care for his family and friends is second to none, and reminds us that our reach is greater than our profession alone,” said Dr. Jackie Christakos, who nominated Dr. Swanson for the award. “The skills I have gained in only a few short years as a lameness practitioner under Dr. Swanson’s tutelage have given me a gigantic leg-up in confidence and ability. Dr. Swanson has provided ‘real world’ education to countless equine practitioners over the years and continues to do so. He makes those around him better veterinarians; he makes us better humans.”

A 1967 graduate of Colorado State University, Dr. Swanson sold his ownership interest in Littleton Equine Medical Center in 2011 but continues to practice with emphasis on lameness and performance horses. His list of accomplishments includes past president of the American Association of Equine Practitioners; past president of the Colorado Veterinary Medical Association; Colorado Veterinary Medical Association Veterinarian of the Year; and AAEP Distinguished Life Member Award recipient. Dr. Swanson was also a FEI Veterinary Delegate in numerous disciplines and an official veterinarian at the World Equestrian Games.

The American Association of Equine Practitioners, headquartered in Lexington, Ky., was founded in 1954 as a non-profit organization dedicated to the health and welfare of the horse. Currently, AAEP reaches more than 5 million horse owners through its over 9,000 members worldwide and is actively involved in ethics issues, practice management, research and continuing education in the equine veterinary profession and horse industry.