The American Association of Equine Practitioners (AAEP) paid tribute to prominent mentor and surgeon Charles Raker, VMD, Dipl. ACVS, with the Sage O. Kester "Beyond the Call" Award for his widespread contributions to the equine veterinary community.

The highest honor bestowed by the AAEP, the award is reserved for members who have helped shape the practice of equine veterinary medicine today. Raker, the second-ever recipient of the award, was honored during the President's Luncheon, held Dec. 7 during the 2010 AAEP convention.

Recognized as one of the most respected educators in the equine veterinary community, Raker has profoundly influenced the careers of his students and veterinary colleagues. Raker's surgical expertise led to the development of many medical and surgical procedures that improved the quality of life for his patient, the horse. At the age of 90, Raker continues to influence the future of equine veterinary medicine as the chair emeritus of the Opportunity Scholarship Program at the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine.

Raker graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School Of Veterinary Medicine as class valedictorian in 1942. After eight years in private practice, he returned to his alma mater to lead the department of surgery and large animal clinic. His reputation as a world-class surgeon and instructor helped to revitalize the clinic and spurred the development of UPenn's New Bolton Center