Two veterinarians in Cornell's College of Veterinary Medicine, Donald F. Smith and Ronald Riis, were honored by the New York State Veterinary Medical Society (NYSVMS), Sept. 29, in Saratoga Springs, N.Y.

Smith, who served as dean of the Cornell veterinary school from 1997-2007, was named the New York State Veterinarian of the Year. He is credited with setting the course for Cornell's pioneering efforts in biomedical research by establishing infectious disease, cancer biology and oncology, and mammalian genomics as emerging academic priorities his first year.

With support from the NYSVMS, Smith played a role in securing funding from the state to build the New York State Animal Health Diagnostic Center at Cornell. Since stepping down as dean, he plans to stay at Cornell to teach and also explore special opportunities concerning the veterinary profession, in particular the relationship of companion animals to the family structure in America.

Smith earned his D.V.M. degree from the University of Guelph in 1974. He is a diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Riis, an associate professor of ophthalmology, was recognized with this year's Outstanding Service to Veterinary Medicine award.

He earned his D.V.M. degree from the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine in 1971, and his master's degree in veterinary ophthalmology in 1975; in 1976 he earned diplomate status in the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.

"I am proud of many things in my career especially my work on cataract and retinal degenerative diseases and surgery," said Riis. The New York State Veterinary Medical Society, headquartered in Albany, represents the more than 3,500 licensed veterinarians in New York state.