Honored Mentor

Daniel Smeak

DVM, DACVS

Dr. Smeak is not only a brilliant and talented surgeon, he is also a passionate teacher and mentor. I will be forever grateful to him and I know there are many ACVS Diplomates that share my support for him as an Honored Mentor.
- Stephen A. Bilbrey, DVM, MS, DACVS

I feel honored to have been taught by Dr. Dan Smeak and know that all students, interns, and residents of his over the course of his 40 years of teaching feel the same way.
- Kristin A. Coleman, DVM, DACVS (Small Animal)

Dr. Smeak inspired kindness, critical thinking, compassion, strong fundamentals, and camaraderie/collaboration on a daily basis.
- Christopher M. Gauthier, DVM, MS, DACVS (Small Animal)

His compassion, sense of humor, and dedication to his residents were pivotal to my surgical training, and to so many others he mentored during his career.
- Lauren Hamil, DVM, DACVS (Small Animal)

He was the best instructor I ever had. He was patient, kind, extremely knowledgeable, and always had a tip to help you where you were struggling. He still helps me to this day.
- Daniel J. Nucci, DVM, DACVS (Small Animal)

Dan was a great mentor in my residency program and a strong influence on my development as a surgeon.
- Eric R. Schertel, DVM, PhD, DACVS

Dr. Smeak helped me to hone my skills as a surgeon. His teaching methods were unique to him and his Smeak-isms. I learned so much from him and will be forever grateful.
- Allen A. Simon, DVM, MS, DACVS (Small Animal)

Dr. Smeak is not only a great surgeon and a great mentor but became a good friend that I can always call for professional and personal reasons. He is an inspiration for the type of mentor I would like to become.
- Giovanni Tremolada, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS (Small Animal)

My primary goal as a surgical mentor has been to teach my residents to see the potential in themselves. You all have inspired me to be the best I can be, and this has helped me teach you to discover the very best in yourselves. It is one of my greatest joys to witness just how successful my residents have been in their careers and lives. I admire your significant contributions to veterinary surgery. I hope I have contributed in some way to your success and helped instill in you a dedication to life-long learning. This award means the world to me especially since it comes from such a group of highly talented surgeons and enduring friends.
- Daniel Smeak, DVM, DACVS

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