Michelle Barton, DVM, Ph.D., DACVIM-LA, assistant dean of clinical academic affairs at the University of Georgia College of Veterinary Medicine, received the American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) Distinguished Educator – Academic Award for her substantial contributions to the body of knowledge on equine endotoxemia and impactful training of veterinary students, graduate students and residents. 

The Distinguished Educator – Academic Award recognizes an individual who by her or his actions and commitment has demonstrated a significant impact on the development and training of equine practitioners. Dr. Barton received her award Dec. 2 during the President’s Luncheon at the AAEP’s 69th Annual Convention in San Diego, Calif. 

Dr. Barton received her veterinary degree from the University of Illinois in 1985. Following a large animal medicine and surgery internship at North Carolina State University, she completed a four-year combined large animal internal medicine residency and Ph.D. in physiology at the University of Georgia. She joined the faculty in 1990 and currently holds the Fuller E. Callaway Endowed Chair and is a Josiah Meigs Distinguished Teaching Professor. While overseeing the third- and fourth-year DVM program and students, Dr. Barton continues to teach and provide service in the Large Animal Teaching Hospital. 

During her career, she has mentored and trained 27 large animal internal medicine residents and has supervised 32 veterinary and graduate students in research projects. Renowned for her research into equine endotoxemia and her clinical expertise in equine liver disorders, Dr. Barton has shared her considerable knowledge as author or co-author of 41 textbook chapters, 91 refereed journal articles and 72 research abstracts. She has presented at 82 national and international scientific meetings, including four keynote addresses.  

From 2008–2011, Dr. Barton served as Specialty President for Large Animal Internal Medicine within the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, with a subsequent appointment as its first ombudsman to improve and support the training of the next generation of ACVIM-LA diplomates.  

“In the classroom and clinic, I have watched Dr. Barton time and again guide students through a difficult concept or a tough case in a unique and unparalleled way that simultaneously builds both their knowledge and confidence in themselves,” said nominator Dr. Kelsey Hart. “She is always available for advice and direction, if needed, but is also very conscientious to not micromanage and stifle the individual and unique intellectual development of the veterinary students, graduate students and residents she works with.” 

About AAEP 

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.