A University professor and award-winning veterinarian filled a year-and-a-half void in the College of Veterinary Medicine earlier this week.
Jeffrey Klausner, the college’s interim dean for over a year, was named dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine by the Board of Regents. The appointment took effect Monday.
“Klausner brings outstanding vision, proven leadership abilities and a strong sense of commitment to strengthen the distinguished reputation of the College of Veterinary Medicine,” said Bob Bruininks, University executive vice president and provost.
Klausner has worked at the University since 1977, after following his love of animals and graduating from vet school in Georgia.
“I wanted to work in the field because veterinarians are thought of very highly in society — as caring and empathetic people,” Klausner said. “Caring for animals and helping people is a very noble cause.”
When he came to the University, Klausner was appointed to the faculty of small animal clinical sciences. He served as chairman of the department from 1992-98.
He took the position of interim dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine after his predecessor left to pursue an opportunity at the University of Nevada.
“Dr. Klausner has an outstanding record of accomplishment as a professor, as chair of the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences and as interim dean,” Bruininks said.
Klausner is certified in veterinary internal medicine and oncology and has written and co-written more than 60 publications on a variety of subjects.
Looking back on his professional career, Klausner said his greatest accomplishment was his contribution to developing strongrelationships between the teaching hospital and the community.
“Dr. Klausner is uniquely suited for the position of the dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine. He has overwhelming support from the faculty, staff and community,” said Frank Cerra, vice president of the Academic Health Center.
As dean of the College of Veterinary Medicine, Klausner hopes to enhance college research programs. He also wants to build relationships for the college and provide opportunities for faculty and staff members.
“We are working hard to ensure that graduates of the program add value to the business and practice they go to work in,” Klausner said.
Earlier this month, Klausner was honored by the Minnesota Veterinary Medical Association with the Veterinarian of the Year Award.
Klausner, his wife and their two teenage daughters live in Plymouth, Minn. In his spare time he enjoys fishing, snowshoeing, canoeing and reading.

Liz Bogut covers faculty and welcomes comments at [email protected]. She can also be reached at (612) 627-4070 x3217.