Dr. Lorin D. Warnick, a professor of ambulatory and production medicine, took office August 1 as Interim Dean for the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. He was appointed to the post by former Dean Michael Kotlikoff, who has been appointed Provost of Cornell University.

Before becoming Interim Dean, Warnick was Associate Dean for Veterinary Education and Director of the Cornell University Hospital for Animals (CUHA).

“In both capacities he has been an exceptionally thoughtful and effective leader,” said Kotlikoff, in announcing his choice. “Lorin and I have worked very closely, and I know that he will provide the college with outstanding leadership.”

Warnick has served on the Board of Cornell University Veterinary Specialists in Stamford, CT. He has had oversight of Cornell Ruffian Equine Specialists in Elmont, NY and is leading the planning for a Community Practice Service facility in Ithaca, NY.

“It is an honor to lead the college through this transition,” said Warnick. “Mike is an inspiring leader who has fostered enormous growth in our clinical, educational and research capabilities. My highest priority in the coming months is to provide the continuity of leadership that will ensure the success of our current initiatives.”

Warnick received his DVM degree from Colorado State University and his PhD in Veterinary Medicine from Cornell University. He is a diplomate in the American College of Veterinary Preventive Medicine. He joined the Cornell faculty in 1996 and has had responsibilities for clinical service and teaching in the Ambulatory and Production Medicine Service as well as research in the epidemiology of zoonotic infectious diseases and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance.

Dr. Meg Thompson, Associate Clinical Professor of Imaging, will now oversee CUHA as Interim Director. Thompson has served as Imaging Section Chief and more recently as a Medical Director and member of the hospital executive committee. She has led the college’s Continuing Education program for three years, managing successful events such as the New York State Veterinary Conference, a collaborative effort with the New York State Veterinary Medical Society. She was also responsible for the college’s online learning presence through www.veritasdvm.com, a joint project between Zoetis, Cornell, and Texas A & M. Thompson is board-certified in the American College of Veterinary Radiology. 

“Dr. Thompson is an experienced clinician, educator and faculty member,” said Warnick, in announcing her appointment. “Her administrative experience, understanding of hospital operations, and extensive work with regional veterinarians put her in an excellent position to take on the interim director role.

An international search for Kotlikoff’s permanent successor, and an open search for a permanent hospital director, will begin in the fall.