Photo courtesy of the Kansas City Animal Health Summit
Fabian Kausche, DVM, MS is the 2023 winner of the Iron Paw Award.
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The Kansas City Animal Health Corridor (AHC) presented the 2023 Iron Paw Award to Fabian Kausche, DVM, MS, who has dedicated much of his career to research and development and serving as a mentor in the veterinary industry. Kausche accepted the award on stage Monday at the Midland Theater in Kansas City, Missouri, during the AHC Animal Health Summit.
“Fabian, it is clear from the many nominations that you have created a very strong legacy of developing and supporting colleagues who give back to many in the industry. You deserve this award,” said Caroline Belmont, chair of the AHC Advisory Board and vice president of global innovation and U.S. regulatory affairs at Boehringer Ingelheim, when presenting the award.
His comments were followed by a video with 7 industry colleagues testifying about his work and its impact on the industry. Family members also appeared in the video to talk about his passion and congratulate him. “I am deeply honored,” Kausche said in response, while thanking the AHC and its nominators.
The Iron Paw Award recognizes an individual who has made a significant impact or contribution to the global animal health industry, according to the AHC.1 “This is the greatest individual achievement in our industry,” Belmont said.
The recipient may have a background in research, academia, industry, or government, although credentials and years of service do not determine eligibility. The AHC Board of Directors or a subcommittee appointed by the Board selects the award winner each year.1
In awarding Kausche the Iron Paw, the AHC highlighted his “passion for product innovation, attention to detail and intrinsic understanding of animal welfare and care” that led to his professional achievements. Additionally, in his leadership roles, he focused on the well-being of the employees and organizations he worked for, helping to promote company culture, diversity, inclusion and transparency .1
“Fabian, you are an inspiration and have had a lasting impact on so many people,” said AHC President Kimberly Young when presenting the award.
Originally from Germany, Kausche began his career in Western Europe, working for The Upjohn Company in a clinical and regulatory role. After moving to Michigan, where Upjohn was headquartered, Kausche then took on a leadership role in research and development for Novartis Animal Health. His career eventually led him to Merial, where he served as global head of research and development and was involved in the company’s merger with Boehringer Ingelheim.
“Witnessing the evolution of the industry from businesses primarily focused on production animals to the dynamic and ever-changing environment we experience today with publicly traded companies and hundreds of start-ups ups, has been truly remarkable,” Kausche said in his acceptance speech.
Throughout his career, Kausche has used his passion for coaching and mentoring to help guide the next generation of veterinary professionals. In addition to mentoring individuals, Kausche has worked as a member of diversity and inclusion boards at companies including Novartis Animal Health, Merial and Boehringer Ingelheim.1
Retiring in 2019, Kausche continues to be active in the veterinary industry, serving on the boards of companies around the world that research and develop new treatments for animals. He is also an advisor to the Center for Vaccinology and Regenerative Medicine at the Royal Veterinary College, London, England; and started his own business, FK Consulting LLC in Atlanta, Georgia.1 The company “specializes in supporting animal health companies and start-ups, as well as product innovation strategies,” Young said.
Reference
2023 Iron Paw Award Recipient. KC Animal Health Corridor. Accessed August 28, 2023. https://kcanimalhealth.thinkkc.com/events/kcahc-iron-paw-award