The Department of Animal Science of the University of Arkansas recognized its top achievers with the prestigious Awards of Distinction in 2025. This year’s recipients include Advanced Graduates of Distinction, Rene Flores and Jessica Williamson, Graduate of Distinction, Dr. Jim Coffey, and Friend of the Department, the Wedington Animal Hospital and Lindsey Woods-Erby.
| Awardees | Honorable Mention |
|---|---|
| Advanced Graduate of Distinction: | Rene Flores and Jessica Williamson |
| Graduate of Distinction: | Dr. Jim Coffey |
| Friend of the Department: | Wedington Animal Hospital and Lindsey Woods-Erby |
Awards Recipients
- Rene Flores: As a renowned animal scientist, Flores has made significant contributions to the field through his research and professional endeavors. His achievements include: Postdoctoral research fellow at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, managing the Pre-Clinical Critical Laboratory at the Center for Nursing Research, and serving as the program manager of research compliance for the Animal Welfare Committee.
- Jessica Williamson: Williamson is a talented animal scientist with a strong background in research and academia. Her notable achievements include: Completing her Ph.D. in forage agronomy from the University of Kentucky, conducting research on grazing management to mitigate the effects of fescue toxicosis in growing cattle, and serving as the marketing manager for Massey Ferguson hay equipment in North America.
- Dr. Jim Coffey: Coffey is a dedicated veterinarian with a passion for animal care and welfare. His notable achievements include: Graduating from the University of Arkansas with a degree in animal science, working at 14 veterinary clinics, and raising a diverse range of livestock.
- Dr. Lindsey Woods-Erby, Wedington Animal Hospital:
As a veterinarian and partner in the Wedington Animal Hospital, Woods-Erby has demonstrated exceptional dedication to her work. Her accomplishments include completing two post-graduate specialty internships in avian, exotic pet, wildlife, and zoological medicine, and practicing exclusively on exotic pets at Wasatch Exotic Pet Care.
About the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences
The Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences is a leading institution that provides life-changing opportunities to its students. The college is named after Dale Bumpers, former Arkansas governor and longtime U.S. senator, who made the state prominent in national and international agriculture. The college’s mission is to position and prepare graduates who will be leaders in the businesses associated with foods, family, the environment, agriculture, sustainability, and human quality of life. For more information about the college, visit its website or follow it on social media.
About the Awards of Distinction
The Awards of Distinction are given to recognize outstanding achievements in the field of animal science. The awards are presented annually to acknowledge the contributions of individuals who have made significant impacts in the field.
