College of

Veterinary Medicine

Dr. Jill Akkerman was awarded the Distinguished Early Career Faculty Award at the 2022 University Convocation in December.

She is an associate professor of anatomy in the physiological sciences department and director of the Clinical Skills Lab. Her primary appointment involves teaching anatomy in the DVM curriculum and current research interests include teaching/learning pedagogy and curricular development.

 

Receiving the award was an unexpected honor for Akkerman.

 

"I was shocked but grateful to receive this award," she said. "I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here at OSU and am very appreciative for the acknowledgment of my efforts."

Akkerman earned a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from North Carolina State University, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from NCSU and a Ph.D. in Comparative Biomedical Sciences from NCSU. She received her postdoctoral training at the environmental carcinogenesis Division of the Environmental Protection Agency. Akkerman was faculty at the NCSU College of Veterinary Medicine, teaching anatomy
of both small and large animal species for 15 years prior to coming to Oklahoma State.

The Distinguished Early Career Faculty Award recognizes faculty members awarded tenure within the past three years and who demonstrate an exceptionally strong potential for continued contributions to the university and to the honoree’s profession. Honorees are chosen by their respective college leadership team and each receives a plaque and a $2,000 stipend.

“We are very pleased and excited to see Dr. Akkerman receive this well-deserved recognition for her work at the CVM,” said Dr. Martin Furr, physiological sciences department head. “She has made a positive impact on the college and we look forward to her continued efforts as her career progresses.”