AU Veterinary Professor Named Congressional Science Fellow

Dr. Charles Hendrix of the Department of Pathobiology is one of only three recipients nationwide appointed by the American Veterinary Medical Association and its American Veterinary Medical Foundation. He will live in Washington, D.C., and serve as an advisor to a U.S. senator or congressman on health issues.

“It will be a great experience working in Congress, and I hope to make a lot of connections for veterinary medicine and for Auburn University,” Dr. Hendrix said. “I do not know yet with whom I will be working next year.” 

Dr. Hendrix, who has taught veterinary parasitology at Auburn since 1981, is involved in national veterinary and human health programs and serves as a mentor to Auburn students in national writing competitions. Most recently he served as the advisor to the first- and third-place winners in the Hill's Public Health Award competition.

He also serves as the faculty advisor for the veterinary college’s Student Chapter of the American Veterinary Medical Association.

“This is quite an honor for Auburn University and the College of Veterinary Medicine,” added Dean Timothy Boosinger. “He puts forth great dedication at Auburn and he will be a valuable asset in Washington.”

Dr. Hendrix earned his doctorate in veterinary parasitology from the University of Minnesota in 1981 and his doctorate of veterinary medicine in 1974 from the University of Georgia. He also served two years in the U.S. Army Veterinary Corps.

“Congressional science fellows make a powerful impact on public policy in the name of veterinary medicine,” said Dr. William Van Dresser, chair of the American Veterinary Medical Foundation. “Past fellows have made contributions in many areas such as the mystery illness of Desert Storm, farm legislation, food safety and animal welfare issues.”