College of

Veterinary Medicine

Teaching, research, and parasitology diagnostics are just a few areas in which Dr. Ruth Scimeca can impact her students.

An associate professor, board-certified in parasitology and the parasitology section head at the Oklahoma Animal Disease and Diagnostics Laboratory, Scimeca received the prestigious 2026 Zoetis Veterinary Research Excellence Award.

The award is given to an individual who fosters innovative research, on which the scientific advancement of the veterinary profession depends. The recipient does so by practicing outstanding research efforts and productivity.

“It has been an honor to be selected for this award,” Scimeca said. “It motivates me to continue transmitting my passion for research to future generations and makes me appreciate the teamwork that is being done with the group of people that I work with, day by day.”

Scimeca received her VMD in 2004 and completed her MSc and Ph.D. in 2010 in Castilla La Mancha, Spain. Scimeca focused her research on intracellular pathogens and tick-borne diseases. Scimeca came to Oklahoma State in 2016 and completed a residency in parasitology.

“We are fortunate to have talent and dedicated researchers like Dr. Scimeca,” said Richard Prahter, dean of the OSU CVM. "Dr. Scimeca's dedication to advancing research strengthens our college and enhances the educational experience of our students."

Scimeca can be found teaching parasitology to fourth-year students during their diagnostic rotation. Scimeca also supervises three Ph.D. students, including one who just completed her Ph.D. and parasitology residency.

Scimeca works in diverse research areas, including protozoans and vector-borne pathogens of dogs, cats, and cattle. Her current research focuses on cytauxzoonosis (bobcat fever), Babesia conradae, Dirofilaria immitis (heartworm) in dogs, Theileria orientalis in cattle and other protozoans and tick-borne diseases affecting domestic animals.

Dr. Alli Biddick, Director of Clinical Skills, Clinical Reasoning and Communications and Assistant Professor in small animal medicine, received the Zoetis Distinguished Veterinary Teaching Award.

The award is chosen by faculty and students and awarded to a faculty member who they felt, through their teaching, dedication and leadership, contributed significantly to the advancement of their education.

Biddick received her DVM from the Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 2012. Upon graduation, two years of internships at two private practices, followed by a three-year residency in small animal emergency and critical care at Auburn University. While at Auburn, Biddick also earned her master’s degree in veterinary clinical sciences.

Because of the passion her residency mentors instilled in her, Biddick found her passion for teaching. Without their encouragement, Biddick wouldn’t have found her love for teaching.

“One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is seeing fourth-year students excel in the teaching hospital,” Biddick said. “Knowing that the CCC program has helped build the clinical skills, confidence, and reasoning they rely on during their clinical year makes that success especially meaningful.”

Serving as a faculty member allows Biddick to educate, inspire and mentor future veterinarians.

“As dean, I am grateful to have devoted faculty members like Dr. Biddick,” said Prather. “Her dedication to the next generation of veterinarians is inspiring and the CVM is better because of her leadership and dedication.”