Tom J. Johnson
DVM ’71
Ames, Iowa
Tom Johnson’s impact on the profession of veterinary medicine and on his alma mater has distinguished him as a loyal leader in many ways. Without his tireless effort and advocacy, these entities would likely not have experienced the positive growth they have recently enjoyed.
A former private practitioner in Washington, Colorado, and Iowa, Johnson accepted a one-year appointment as executive director of the Iowa Veterinary Medical Association (IVMA) in 2002; it is a one-year appointment that has lasted seven years. In this role, Johnson has successfully increased the amount of contact between veterinary medicine professionals and the Iowa legislature on veterinary and animal agriculture issues.
On campus, Johnson’s efforts as the leader of the IVMA have translated into funding for the Dr. W. Eugene and Linda Lloyd Veterinary Medical Center and veterinary diagnostic lab.
A life member of the ISU Alumni Association, Johnson is a past recipient of the Clay County 4-H’s Volunteer of the Year award (1999); the IVMA’s President’s Award (2003); and the College of Veterinary Medicine’s William P. Switzer Award (2005), Outstanding Service Award (2005), and Stange Award for Meritorious Service (2009).
Johnson and his wife, Debra (’69 food & nutrition), have four children: Amanda, Ira, Ethan, and Kathryn (’05 hotel, restaurant, and institution mgmt).
