Understanding AVMA Elections: A Guide to Leadership Roles and Voting

Hey everyone, Jen here! 😊

I’ve been getting a lot of questions lately about the election process at the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), so I thought it’d be a great time to break it down for you. Whether you’re a seasoned AVMA member or just starting to get involved, understanding how leadership is elected is crucial. Let’s dive in!

AVMA Governance: How It Works

The AVMA has a robust governance structure with over 40 councils, committees, and trusts where members can volunteer and make a difference. If you’re interested in getting involved, the opportunities are listed on the AVMA website under “Volunteer Opportunities.”

These roles are either appointed or elected:

• Committees: Appointed by the AVMA Board of Directors.
• Councils: Elected by the AVMA House of Delegates (HOD).

Who Makes Up the AVMA Board of Directors?

The AVMA Board of Directors is one of the most visible leadership bodies within the organization. It includes:

• Five Officers: Vice President, President-Elect, President, Immediate Past President, and Treasurer (non-voting).
• Eleven District Directors: Representing different geographical areas across the U.S.

For example, my district, District 5, covers Ohio, Kentucky, West Virginia, and Michigan.

The Role of the House of Delegates

The AVMA House of Delegates (HOD) is a powerful group that votes on key positions like the President-Elect and Vice President. The HOD meets twice a year—once during the January Veterinary Leadership Conference and again during the summer AVMA Convention.

The HOD consists of:

• 50 State Representatives: Each state has a delegate and an alternate delegate.
• 20 Allied Groups: Representing specialized organizations like the American Association of Equine Practitioners and the Student AVMA (SAVMA).

How Voting Works: Weighted Votes and the Electoral College System

The voting process within the HOD is similar to the U.S. Electoral College. Delegates’ votes are weighted based on the number of veterinarians in their state. Larger states like Illinois or Florida have more heavily weighted votes compared to smaller states like Rhode Island or Connecticut.

Getting Involved and Making Your Voice Heard

If you’re interested in running for a position or just want to influence the election, here’s what you can do:

• Talk to Your Delegate: Whether you’re in a state association or a specialized group, reach out to your delegate to express your opinions.
• Stay Informed: Attend the AVMA conferences where these discussions and votes take place.

I’ll be standing for election as President-Elect in July 2025, and I’m super excited about the opportunity to represent you all. If you have any questions or want to discuss the election process further, I’m all ears! Let’s make sure your voice is heard.