Dean A. Hendrickson

Dr. Hendrickson is a patient, forthright, and compassionate mentor that prioritizes the education and training of his residents, students, and technicians alike. Years into his career, he still has an obvious passion for his career, which he conveys each day in the way he interacts with his colleagues and clients. Finally, his ability to excel as both a surgeon and teacher is a skill all his former students aspire to have.

- Drew Koch, DVM, PhD, DACVS (Large Animal)

Dean always displays such humility, which is seemingly at odds with what one might expect from an immensely accomplished surgeon. He taught me that it is okay to make mistakes as long as you learn from them. As a resident, that feeling of psychological safety was priceless. Giving me that space to try and fail and try again helped make me the person I am today.

- Annette M. McCoy, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS (Large Animal)

Dr. Hendrickson is a superior advocate for surgical education. He has influenced so many surgical residents, students, and early career faculty. He shares his wisdom on a regular basis and is a role model for surgery, from teaching surgical principles to being a world leader in laparoscopic surgery. I am honored to have had the opportunity to learn from him and I know that is the same for countless others.

- Bradley Nelson, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS (Large Animal)

Dean Hendrickson has had an immense impact on my career in every way. He is a truly exceptional person and mentor who goes out of his way to be encouraging and supportive. He is an outstanding role model, and I am forever grateful for his guidance, mentorship, and friendship.

- Lynn Marie Pezzanite, DVM, MS, PhD, DACVS

Dr. Hendrickson was one of the greatest teachers – to residents, students, and colleagues – that I have ever had the honor of working with.

- Lauren Smanik, DVM, DACVS (Large Animal)

Dr. Hendrickson was supportive throughout my residency and was an excellent role model!

- Louise Southwood, BVSc, PhD, DACVS

Dr. Hendrickson has fundamentally influenced the way I approach surgery in horses. From practical case management strategies to science based wound care, I utilize the lessons learned from him on a daily basis.

- Sara “KT” Steward, DVM, DACVS (Large Animal)

Beyond the 5,000+ veterinary students he has inspired, Dr. Hendrickson has profoundly shaped me as a clinician, surgeon, and person. Few people truly alter one’s path; I am privileged that he is one of them. His surgical expertise, social skills, pragmatic judgment, and visionary mindset transformed my residency and redirected my career. I know his voice will remain with me, guiding my decisions throughout the rest of my professional life.

- Machiel Paul Ysebaert, Jr., DVM