Former American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) President James Nave, DVM, has been named the 2023 winner of the AVMA Advocacy Award. Since 2008, the award has recognized individuals for their contributions to advancing the legislative agenda of the organization and for their defense of the interests of the veterinary profession.1
“Dr. Nave’s dedication to veterinary medicine and his tireless advocacy efforts truly embody the spirit of the AVMA Advocacy Award,” said Lori Teller, DVM, DABVP (canine/feline), CVJ, president of the AVMA, in an organizational press release. “His significant contributions over the years have left an indelible mark on the profession, and we are delighted to honor him with this award.”1
Nave graduated from the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine in 1968. Before becoming a leader in veterinary medicine, he served in the U.S. Army, stationed in Vietnam. His exceptional service earned him the Bronze Star, according to the AVMA.1
As a veterinarian, Nave opened Tropicana Animal Hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada, in 1974. Since then, he has grown his business, Nave Veterinary Group, to more than 20 veterinary hospitals in southern Nevada, supported by a long-standing mentorship. for young doctors.2
Through veterinary practice, Nave has recognized the importance of building relationships and engaging with legislators to influence policies that impact the veterinary profession, and he advocates for the interests of the profession and animals under the care of veterinarians, according to the AVMA. Since its inception, Nave has also been an ardent supporter of the AVMA Political Action Committee, raising more than $100,000 to support AVMA’s federal lobbying efforts, according to the organization. He has also been instrumental in strengthening the AVMA’s global outreach efforts through the AVMA Federation of Veterinarians of Europe. Nave’s advocacy work has contributed to the development of several joint position statements on topics including animal welfare, veterinary education, One Health, and antimicrobial use and resistance.1
In addition to the AVMA Advocacy Award, Nave has previously been recognized by the AVMA with the AVMA President’s Award (2003), the AVMA Award (2009), and the AVMA Global Veterinary Service Award (2022).1 A lifetime member of the Mizzou Alumni Association (MAA) at the University of Missouri, Nave was also named the 1987 Alumnus of the Year by the College of Veterinary Medicine. Additionally, he received the MAA Alumni Award in 2001.3
The references
- Dr. James Nave named 2023 AVMA Advocacy Award recipient. Press release. July 14, 2023. Accessed July 14, 2023. https://www.avma.org/news/press-releases/dr-james-nave-named-recipient-2023-avma-advocacy-award
- About Us: Meet our management team. Nave Veterinary Group. Accessed July 14, 2023. https://navegrouplv.com/about-us/
- James E Nave, BS AG ’66, DVM ’68. Mizzou Alumni Association. Accessed July 14, 2023. https://www.mizzou.com/s/1002/alumni/19/interior.aspx?sid=1002&gid=1001&pgid=13426&sitebuilder=1&contentbuilder=1