The University of Saskatchewan's Board of Governors has approved the appointment of Douglas Freeman, DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACT, as the new dean of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine (WCVM).

Freeman, who begins his five-year term on March 1, 2010, will become the regional veterinary college's sixth dean in its 45-year history. He will replace Charles Rhodes, DVM, MSc, the WCVM's dean since 2002. Rhodes is retiring after 39 years of service with the college.

"Dr. Freeman's broad experience, his approachable personality, and his collaborative manner will make an excellent fit with the Western College of Veterinary Medicine and the University of Saskatchewan," said Brett Fairbairn, DPhil, the university's provost and vice-president. "These qualities will serve him well in his new role as one of Canada's key leaders in veterinary education, animal health, public health, and food safety."

"I am thrilled to be the next dean of the Western College of Veterinary Medicine. It is an outstanding veterinary school with tremendous talent in a broad range of programs," said Freeman. "I look forward to working with the faculty, staff, students, and friends of the veterinary college in addressing current challenges and opportunities in veterinary medicine